Mosquito River Group Backpacking Site

About

Mosquito River Group Backpacking Site is a designated backcountry group camping area within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The site sits on the west side of Mosquito River, steps from the North Country Trail, with a scenic bluff overlooking Lake Superior. Access is by foot along the trail or by kayak from the lake. The site accommodates groups of 7-20 people with a maximum of 10 tents or hammocks. Amenities are primitive: a shared pit toilet serves the area and a bear-proof food storage locker is provided. Water must be obtained from Mosquito River or Lake Superior and requires boiling for one full minute or filtering through a one-micron filter due to giardia risk. No campfires are permitted at this campground; campers must use backpacking stoves for cooking. All trash must be packed out. A backcountry camping permit is required year-round for all overnight stays. Permits are obtained through Recreation.gov and include a $15 non-refundable reservation fee plus $5 per person per night. Additionally, a Pictured Rocks Pass or America the Beautiful Federal Lands Pass is required for park entry. Pets are prohibited in all backcountry areas. Check-in is 1:00 PM and checkout is 12:00 PM.

Directions

Access is by foot or kayak only via the North Country Trail. The site is located on the west side of Mosquito River within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. From Munising, take County Road H-58 to designated trailheads with parking. Hikers must pack in all gear along the trail to reach the site. Kayakers can access from Lake Superior.