Coves Group Campsite

For Michiganders seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure with friends, family, or fellow enthusiasts, the Coves Group Campsite offers a unique and truly immersive experience in the heart of Michigan's stunning Upper Peninsula. Tucked away within the breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, this destination is not your average drive-up campground. Instead, it promises a rewarding backcountry experience, ideal for groups who appreciate tranquility, natural beauty, and a bit of a hike to reach their secluded haven.

The Coves Group Campsite stands out as a "nice group site," as noted by previous visitors, providing ample space for larger parties to enjoy the wilderness together. Unlike individual campsites designed for smaller groups, Coves is specifically tailored to accommodate bigger gatherings, making it an excellent choice for scout troops, family reunions, or a memorable outing with a large circle of friends. Its designation as a group site means it's set up to handle the needs of multiple tents and people, while still maintaining the rustic charm of backcountry camping.

This campsite offers a genuine opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and each other. Imagine evenings spent around a crackling campfire, sharing stories under a blanket of stars, and days filled with exploring the incredible landscapes that define Pictured Rocks. The sounds of the forest, the fresh Upper Peninsula air, and the quiet solitude create an atmosphere conducive to deep relaxation and shared experiences. It's a place where memories are forged amidst the raw beauty of Michigan's wilderness.

Location and Accessibility

Coves Group Campsite is located in Shingleton, MI 49884, USA, placing it firmly within the spectacular Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This prime location means campers have direct access to one of Michigan's most celebrated natural wonders, renowned for its colorful sandstone cliffs, expansive beaches, and pristine forests.

However, it’s crucial for potential visitors to understand the accessibility of Coves Group Campsite. This is a backcountry site, meaning it is not accessible by vehicle. The primary access is by foot, making it a hike-in only destination. The site is located along the North Country Trail, offering backpackers a chance to truly earn their solitude. The exact distance to the campsite can vary depending on your starting point, but it's part of the extensive trail system within the Pictured Rocks backcountry. It is also noted that some sites in the Pictured Rocks backcountry, including group sites, can be accessible by boat, offering another adventurous approach for those with the appropriate watercraft and skills for Lake Superior.

A significant point of access information is that Coves Group Campsite is an inland site, hidden behind pine trees and ferns, even though there is Lake Superior and beach access from the bluff along the North Country Trail. This inland placement contributes to its secluded feel.

Reservations are mandatory for all backcountry campsites, including Coves Group Campsite. There is no drop-in camping allowed, and permits must be obtained in advance through Recreation.gov. It’s highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for group sites, as they are popular. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore releases backcountry camping permits on a rolling window, so planning ahead is key to securing your desired dates.

Services Offered

• Group-Oriented Sites: Specifically designed to accommodate larger groups (7-20 people, up to 10 tents/hammocks maximum), ensuring ample space and facilities for shared experiences.
• Vault Toilets: Designated vault toilets are available for public use at the campground, providing essential sanitation in a rustic setting.
• Food Storage Boxes: Metal, bear-proof food storage boxes are provided at each campsite. All food items, beverages, cooking equipment, and pet food must be stored in these containers when not in immediate use to protect against wildlife.
• Communal Fire Rings: Designated metal communal fire rings are available for campfires, promoting safe and contained fires. Campfires are permitted in these rings only, and rules regarding local firewood sourcing and collection apply.
• Lake Superior Water Source: Water for drinking and cooking can be sourced from Lake Superior. It is essential for campers to bring their own water filtration or purification systems, as water is not potable directly from the source.
• Leave No Trace Principles: While not a direct "service," the campground operates under strict Leave No Trace principles, requiring campers to pack out all trash and dispose of waste properly, maintaining the pristine environment.
• Proximity to North Country Trail: The campsite is located along the extensive North Country Trail, offering direct access to miles of hiking opportunities.

Features / Highlights

• Ideal for Groups: As a designated group campsite, Coves offers the perfect setting for larger parties to camp together, fostering camaraderie and shared outdoor experiences. Its spacious layout comfortably accommodates multiple tents.
• True Backcountry Experience: Accessible only by hiking or paddling, Coves Group Campsite provides an authentic backcountry adventure, allowing visitors to disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves fully in nature.
• Secluded Woodland Setting: The campsites are nestled within a dense forest, providing natural privacy and a quintessential Michigan wilderness feel. This inland location contributes to a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
• Access to Lake Superior: Despite its inland location within the forest, the campground provides access to Lake Superior and its beach from a bluff along the North Country Trail. This offers stunning views and opportunities to explore the shoreline.
• North Country Trail Access: Coves Group Campsite is strategically located along the North Country Trail, making it an excellent stop for long-distance hikers or a starting point for day trips to other notable attractions within Pictured Rocks.
• Bear-Aware Environment: With provided food storage boxes and clear guidelines, the campground emphasizes bear safety, ensuring a responsible and secure camping experience in bear country.
• Close to Iconic Pictured Rocks Sights: While a hike is required, the general area offers access to famous landmarks like Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, and the vibrant sandstone cliffs, enhancing the overall camping adventure.
• Hammock Friendly: The site is noted as being hammock friendly, offering alternative sleeping options for campers.

Contact Information

Address: Shingleton, MI 49884, USA

As a backcountry group campsite within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Coves Group Campsite does not have a direct phone number for the campsite itself. All reservations and most detailed inquiries are handled through the National Park Service system.

For reservations and detailed information about backcountry permits, fees, and rules, please visit the official Recreation.gov website or contact their call center:

Recreation.gov Website: recreation.gov (Search for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Camping Permit)

Recreation.gov Phone: 1-877-444-6777

For general inquiries about Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you may contact the Munising Falls Visitor Center:

Phone: 906-387-3700

Email: INFORMATION_PIRO@NPS.GOV

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michiganders, Coves Group Campsite is more than just a place to pitch tents; it's an invitation to experience the raw, untamed beauty of our own backyard in the Upper Peninsula. Its suitability for locals lies in several key aspects that resonate deeply with the spirit of Michigan's outdoor culture.

Firstly, its designation as a "group site" makes it exceptionally well-suited for the close-knit communities, families, and outdoor clubs that thrive across our state. Whether you're organizing a trip for your scouting troop, a multi-family adventure, or a gathering of hiking enthusiasts, Coves provides the dedicated space and communal atmosphere that larger groups require. This fosters shared experiences and strengthens bonds amidst the stunning natural backdrop.

Secondly, the hike-in nature of Coves Group Campsite, while requiring a bit more planning and effort, is precisely what makes it appealing to many Michigan adventurers. Locals often seek authentic experiences that move beyond crowded drive-up campgrounds. The walk to Coves ensures a quieter, more pristine environment, filtering out those less committed to an immersive wilderness experience. This allows for a deeper connection with nature and a genuine sense of escape from the everyday.

Furthermore, its location within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers unparalleled access to some of the most iconic natural wonders in Michigan. The colorful sandstone cliffs, serene beaches, and extensive hiking trails of the North Country Trail are all within reach, making Coves an excellent basecamp for exploration. Michiganders who pride themselves on experiencing the best of their state's natural heritage will find this campsite strategically positioned for unforgettable day trips and extended treks.

Finally, the emphasis on Leave No Trace principles and bear awareness aligns perfectly with the responsible outdoor ethics often instilled in those who recreate in Michigan's wild spaces. It's a place where respect for the environment is paramount, ensuring that this beautiful resource remains unspoiled for generations to come. For Michigan residents looking to truly embrace the wild heart of the Upper Peninsula with their group, Coves Group Campsite offers an unparalleled blend of challenge, tranquility, and natural grandeur, promising memories that will last a lifetime.

For a visual journey of backpacking the Pictured Rocks to Coves campsite, you can watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEoDwdv5YTw).

Coves Group Campsite

Shingleton, MI 49884, USA