Little Duck Campsite

For Michiganders seeking an authentic, secluded, and truly immersive outdoor experience, Little Duck Campsite on Grand Island near Munising offers an unparalleled opportunity. This isn't your typical drive-in campground with bustling amenities; instead, it's a primitive backcountry site designed for those who appreciate the raw beauty of nature and the tranquility of a more remote setting. Situated on Grand Island, a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area in Lake Superior, Little Duck Campsite provides a unique chance to disconnect and fully embrace the wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

What truly sets Little Duck Campsite apart, and is a recurring highlight in visitor reviews, is its incredible proximity to a "beautiful Lake Superior Beach." Imagine waking up just a few yards from the calm, pristine waters of Lake Superior, with the opportunity to enjoy peaceful sunrises and sunsets over the vast expanse of the lake. This direct beach access is a significant draw, offering a unique waterfront camping experience that is rare to find. The reviews emphasize the tranquility and solitude, making it clear that campers feel truly alone on the island, a priceless commodity in today's busy world.

While amenities are intentionally minimal to maintain the primitive feel, the campsite is thoughtfully equipped with essentials like a vault toilet, benches by the fire pit, a bear box, and a bear pole for safe food storage. These provisions ensure a comfortable and safe stay while respecting the natural environment and local wildlife. For those who prioritize stunning natural beauty, a calm lakeside setting, and a genuine escape into the wild, Little Duck Campsite promises an unforgettable and highly recommended adventure on Grand Island.

Little Duck Campsite is located at E Lighthouse Point, Munising, MI 49862, USA. However, it's crucial for Michiganders to understand that this campsite is not directly accessible by car. It is situated on Grand Island, which lies about half a mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. This means reaching Little Duck Campsite involves a bit more planning and effort, adding to its secluded charm.

Access to Grand Island is primarily via a passenger ferry service (Grand Island Ferry Service) that departs from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located on M-28, a few miles west of Munising. Alternatively, visitors can use private watercraft, such as kayaks or boats, to reach the island. Once on Grand Island, Little Duck Campsite is approximately 2.5 miles from William's Landing, where the ferry service arrives and where a visitor information center is located.

Reaching the campsite from William's Landing typically involves hiking or biking along the island's extensive trail system. Grand Island boasts over 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, providing excellent opportunities for exploration and scenic access to the island's interior and coastline. The campsite's exact location is approximately 50 yards from Lake Superior and Trout Bay Beach, offering a short walk to the stunning shoreline.

Munising, the mainland gateway, is a vibrant Upper Peninsula town. It's about 43 miles from Marquette and 55 miles from Manistique, making it a reasonable drive for many Michiganders. From Munising, visitors can access Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Hiawatha National Forest, and various local outfitters offering guided tours, rentals for kayaks, canoes, pontoons, and mountain bikes, all contributing to a rich outdoor vacation experience surrounding the island. Planning for ferry schedules or private watercraft logistics is essential for a smooth journey to this secluded island paradise.

• Primitive Campsites: Little Duck is a primitive campsite, designed for a rustic camping experience. It can accommodate up to 4 people in two tents per site.
• Vault Toilet: A basic, clean vault toilet (latrine) is provided for sanitation needs within the campsite area.
• Fire Ring: Each campsite includes a fire ring for campfires, allowing for cooking and warmth.
• Benches: Benches are provided near the fire pit, offering seating for campers.
• Bear Box/Food Storage Locker: A secure, bear-resistant food storage locker is available at the campsite to safely store food and scented items away from wildlife.
• Bear Pole: In addition to the bear box, a bear pole is provided for hanging food bags, a common method for bear-proofing in wilderness areas.
• Cut Firewood: Firewood is available, often pre-cut, on the way into the campsite, offering convenience for campers.
• No Potable Water: There is no potable (drinking) water directly at the campsite. The nearest potable water source is approximately 1 mile south at Murray Bay Day Use Area. Campers must plan to bring their own drinking water or filter/treat water from Lake Superior.
• No Picnic Table: While benches are provided, there is no traditional picnic table at the campsite, encouraging a more minimalistic setup.
• Accessible by Kayak: The campsite is accessible to kayakers via Trout Bay Beach, making it a desirable destination for paddle-in campers.
• Reservations Required: Camping at Little Duck Campsite requires reservations, which can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Walk-ins are generally not allowed during peak season.

• Unbeatable Lake Superior Beach Proximity: The most significant highlight is being only a few yards from a beautiful, calm Lake Superior beach (Trout Bay Beach), providing direct access for swimming, relaxing, and stunning views.
• Exceptional Seclusion and Solitude: Reviews consistently emphasize the feeling of being truly alone on the island, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and quiet away from crowds and park activity.
• Primitive Wilderness Experience: Offers an authentic backcountry camping feel, appealing to experienced campers who enjoy roughing it with essential provisions.
• Secure Food Storage: Equipped with both a bear box and a bear pole, ensuring campers can safely store food and deter wildlife, crucial in this natural habitat.
• Natural Beauty of Grand Island: Campers are immersed in 13,500 acres of lush forest, fine sand beaches, and access to over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails.
• Accessibility for Kayakers: Easily accessible by kayak, making it a prime destination for paddling enthusiasts exploring Lake Superior.
• Proximity to Munising Attractions: While secluded, it’s a relatively short ferry ride or paddle from Munising, offering access to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, waterfalls, boat tours, and local amenities.
• Unique Benches and Fire Pit: The presence of benches by the fire pit offers a rustic and inviting communal area at the campsite.
• Designated Hiawatha National Forest Site: Managed by the US Forest Service, ensuring a focus on conservation and a well-regulated camping experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: The island is home to various wildlife, including deer and a variety of bird species, offering opportunities for nature observation.

Address: E Lighthouse Point, Munising, MI 49862, USA (Note: This is the general area on Grand Island)

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the number for the National Recreation Reservation System, Recreation.gov, where reservations are made).

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

For Grand Island Ferry Service information (essential for island access): (906) 387-2600 or visit their website at http://www.grandislandup.com.

For general information about Grand Island National Recreation Area (Hiawatha National Forest): Contact the Munising Ranger District office.

For Michiganders, particularly those in the Upper Peninsula or those willing to travel for an authentic wilderness experience, Little Duck Campsite on Grand Island represents an unparalleled opportunity. Its suitability for locals lies in its unique blend of seclusion, natural beauty, and the immersive connection it offers to one of Michigan's most iconic natural landscapes.

The most compelling reason for Michiganders to choose Little Duck Campsite is its truly secluded nature. In a state with many popular campgrounds, finding a spot where you feel "like you're on the island alone" is a rare and precious commodity. This makes it ideal for those seeking a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle, a chance to fully decompress and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature, rather than the noise of neighboring campers. The unparalleled proximity to a beautiful, calm Lake Superior beach further elevates this experience, providing a stunning natural backdrop and direct access to one of Michigan's greatest natural treasures for swimming, relaxation, and unparalleled views.

While primitive, the campsite is thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities like a clean vault toilet, a fire ring with benches, and robust bear-proof food storage. This means local campers can enjoy the raw beauty of backcountry camping without sacrificing basic safety and convenience. The requirement for reservations ensures a planned and less crowded experience, which many wilderness enthusiasts appreciate.

Moreover, Grand Island itself offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for the adventurous Michigander, from hiking and biking its extensive trails to fishing in Lake Superior. Its location near Munising also means that while the campsite offers solitude, supplies and additional attractions like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore tours are within reach, should they be desired. For those who yearn for a deep connection with Michigan's wild heart, value tranquility, and are prepared for a true primitive camping adventure, Little Duck Campsite is not just a place to stay, but a destination for creating profound and lasting outdoor memories in their home state.

Little Duck Campsite

E Lighthouse Point, Munising, MI 49862, USA