Bay Furnace Campground

Welcome to Bay Furnace Campground, a truly special National Forest Service (NFS) campground located on the stunning shores of Lake Superior in Munising, Michigan. For Michiganders seeking an authentic Upper Peninsula outdoor experience, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and direct access to the expansive waters of Lake Superior. It’s a place where the sounds of the waves lull you to sleep, and the fresh, crisp air invigorates your spirit. Whether you're a seasoned tent camper, an RVer looking for a scenic stop, or a family eager to connect with nature, Bay Furnace Campground provides a memorable backdrop for your Michigan adventure.

We understand that choosing the right campground is essential for a successful outdoor getaway. Bay Furnace Campground, while offering a more rustic experience without hookups, prides itself on its well-maintained facilities and incredible setting. As one camper noted, "Nice NFS campground. No hookups." This indicates a focus on providing a genuine wilderness feel while still ensuring essential amenities are clean and accessible. Our commitment is to offer a serene and picturesque environment where the natural wonders of the Upper Peninsula take center stage. From stunning sunsets over Lake Superior to the peaceful rustling of trees, every aspect of your stay is designed to immerse you in the beauty of Michigan's outdoors.

Bay Furnace Campground boasts an enviable location at E7900 W, M-28, Munising, MI 49862, USA. This address places it directly on the southern shoreline of Lake Superior, just a short drive from the charming town of Munising, Michigan. Munising is widely recognized as the gateway to the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, making Bay Furnace Campground an ideal base for exploring one of Michigan's most iconic natural attractions.

For Michiganders, the accessibility of Bay Furnace Campground is a key advantage. Located directly off M-28, a major state highway, the campground is relatively easy to reach, even for larger RVs. As one review states, it "will accommodate all size rigs, we saw several large class A rigs there." While there is a note about the "roughest stretch of road" leading into the park (approximately 1/2 - 3/4 of a mile long), its brevity means the overall journey remains manageable. This proximity to a main route, combined with its direct Lake Superior frontage, offers an exceptional balance of convenience and remote natural beauty. It allows locals to quickly transition from their everyday lives to a breathtaking lakeside escape without requiring an extensive off-road venture. The appeal of being right on Lake Superior, with "several sites right on the shoreline," is a major draw, offering unparalleled views and immediate access to the water.

Bay Furnace Campground, as a National Forest Service (NFS) site, offers essential services and facilities focused on providing a comfortable and respectful outdoor experience while maintaining its rustic charm.

• Spacious Campsites: The campground features a variety of sites suitable for both tents and RVs, including large rigs. Many sites are generously sized to provide privacy and space.
• Lake Superior Shoreline Sites: A significant highlight is the availability of "Several sites right on the shoreline of Lake Superior," offering incredible views and direct access to the water.
• No Hookups: It is important to note that, as an NFS campground, there are "No hookups" for water, sewer, or electricity at the individual campsites. Campers should be prepared for a rustic experience.
• Clean Restroom Facilities: The campground provides vault or pit toilets that are regularly maintained. One reviewer specifically noted, "Bathroom was clean & no smells (as long as all campers follow the rules which is to close the lid after using it!)." This indicates a commitment to cleanliness given the type of facility.
• Water Access: While individual site hookups are not available, potable water sources are typically provided at central locations within NFS campgrounds. (Please verify specific availability with the campground directly upon arrival or through official NFS resources.)
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Firewood Availability: Firewood can be purchased from a store "right across the entrance of this site," offering convenience for campers needing fuel for their campfires. One review mentioned " $6 (plus tax) per one batch. That was great!"
• Trash Receptacles: Designated areas for trash disposal are available to help maintain the cleanliness of the campground.

Bay Furnace Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a truly memorable destination for campers seeking an authentic Upper Peninsula experience.

• Direct Lake Superior Frontage: The most outstanding feature is undoubtedly its location right on Lake Superior. The availability of "Several sites right on the shoreline" offers campers unparalleled views, the soothing sound of waves, and direct access to the largest of the Great Lakes. This provides a truly immersive lakeside camping experience.
• Rustic National Forest Service Charm: As an NFS campground, Bay Furnace offers a more natural and less commercialized camping environment. It provides a genuine outdoor adventure, appealing to those who prefer a simpler, more connected-to-nature experience without the distractions of full hookups.
• Accommodates All Rig Sizes: Despite its rustic nature and the challenging entrance road, the campground "will accommodate all size rigs, we saw several large Class A rigs there." This versatility makes it accessible to a wide range of campers, from tent users to large RV owners.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Reviewers note that, "Except for some noise from the interstate highway, nice and quiet." This indicates a generally serene environment perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings. One tent camper specifically enjoyed lot 22 for being "Quiet."
• Proximity to Bay Furnace Historic Site: The campground is adjacent to the Bay Furnace Historical Site, providing an interesting historical point of interest right within walking distance.
• Gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Its location near Munising makes it an excellent base for exploring the breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, offering access to hiking, kayaking, boat tours, and stunning sandstone cliffs.
• Local Firewood Source: The convenience of purchasing firewood "from a store right access the entrance of this site" is a practical highlight for campers.
• Basic Connectivity: While not a highlight for luxury, the availability of "1-2 bars Verizon 4g" provides basic connectivity for those who need it, a useful detail for planning or emergencies in a more remote setting.

For inquiries regarding Bay Furnace Campground, including information on reservations (typically via recreation.gov for NFS sites) and current conditions, please use the following details. It's always advisable to check official National Forest Service resources or contact the local ranger district for the most up-to-date information, especially concerning site availability and any alerts.

Address: E7900 W, M-28, Munising, MI 49862, USA

Phone: While a direct phone number for Bay Furnace Campground itself is not publicly listed in the standard format (NFS campgrounds are often managed by a district office), you can typically contact the Hiawatha National Forest - Munising Ranger District for inquiries related to the campground. A general number for the Hiawatha National Forest is often available on their official website. Please search for "Hiawatha National Forest Munising Ranger District phone number" for the most accurate contact.

Bay Furnace Campground is exceptionally suitable for locals in Michigan, particularly those in the Lower Peninsula looking for an authentic Upper Peninsula escape, and for residents of the UP seeking a convenient and scenic retreat. Its location directly on Lake Superior offers a truly unique experience that resonates deeply with Michiganders' love for the Great Lakes. The ability to reserve a site right on the shoreline means unparalleled access to Michigan's most iconic natural feature, allowing locals to wake up to the sounds of the waves and enjoy stunning sunsets over the water – a quintessential Michigan experience.

For those who appreciate a more rustic and less commercialized camping environment, Bay Furnace, as a National Forest Service campground with "No hookups," provides the ideal setting. It caters to locals who are comfortable with self-sufficiency and prefer to immerse themselves fully in nature. This type of camping encourages a genuine connection with the outdoors, a value deeply held by many Michiganders. Despite the rustic nature, the consistent praise for "clean restrooms" ensures that essential facilities are well-maintained, providing comfort without detracting from the natural appeal.

Furthermore, Bay Furnace Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the unparalleled natural wonders of the Munising area. Its proximity to the breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore means locals can easily access world-class hiking, kayaking, and boat tours. This allows for a multi-faceted outdoor adventure, blending relaxing lakeside camping with invigorating exploration of the UP's stunning landscapes. Even with the "roughest stretch of road" leading in, its short length and the ultimate reward of a serene, picturesque campsite make it a worthwhile journey for those who cherish Michigan's wild beauty. Ultimately, for locals seeking an authentic, beautiful, and accessible Upper Peninsula camping experience that truly captures the spirit of Michigan, Bay Furnace Campground stands out as an exceptional choice.

Bay Furnace Campground

E7900 W, M-28, Munising, MI 49862, USA