Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area

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For Michiganders dreaming of a quintessential Upper Peninsula getaway that blends rustic charm with comfortable amenities, Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area in Big Bay is a destination you won't want to miss. Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Independence, this Marquette County Park offers a diverse camping experience, from full hookup RV sites to tranquil rustic spots, all within a beautifully maintained natural setting. It’s a place where the stunning views, abundant recreational opportunities, and friendly atmosphere truly make for an unforgettable stay.

Perkins Park has earned its reputation as a "slice of heaven" for both peace seekers and adventurers. Visitors consistently praise its beauty and value, with one long-time camper exclaiming, "This is a beautiful campground! I stay here almost every time I come up to the UP in the summer. You get a beautiful site right by Lake Independence for a very reasonable price. They do not nickle and dime you like the State Parks do." This sentiment of exceptional value combined with high-quality facilities makes it a top choice for locals returning year after year.

More than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent, Perkins Park is a vibrant hub of activity. Its prime location on Lake Independence means immediate access to a "best beach ever," featuring "shallow water for the kids but when you get out to the boueys it's deep enough to swim. Water is clean, clear and warm!" Beyond the inviting waters, the park offers a wealth of land-based activities, from playgrounds for the little ones to sports courts for active families. This harmonious blend of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities ensures that every member of your group will find something to love. Whether you're looking for a relaxing lakeside retreat or an adventure-filled family vacation, Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area promises a memorable Michigan experience.

Location and Accessibility

Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area is conveniently located in the charming unincorporated community of Big Bay, Michigan, situated in Marquette County in the Upper Peninsula. Its address is Big Bay, MI 49855, USA. The park boasts a prime position directly on the picturesque shores of Lake Independence, a large inland lake known for its beauty and recreational opportunities.

Accessibility to Perkins Park is generally straightforward. Big Bay is located approximately a half-hour north of the city of Marquette via County Road 550, which is a well-maintained paved road. This makes Perkins Park an easy drive for Michiganders traveling from across the Upper Peninsula or even downstate, offering a manageable journey to a truly serene destination. The proximity to Marquette also means that while Big Bay itself offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere with essential services, campers can easily access larger grocery stores, additional dining options, and other amenities in Marquette if needed, just a short drive away.

Within the park itself, the layout is designed for ease of access. Reviewers often mention the well-described sites and the ease of parking RVs. The park also provides accessible features, including some campsites, marked accessible parking, and restrooms with wider doorways and rails, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all visitors. The beach and many park amenities are easily walkable from most campsites, enhancing the convenience and enjoyment of your stay.

Services Offered

Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area is a full-service Marquette County Park that strives to offer a wide array of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. Its offerings cater to diverse camping preferences, from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots.

• Campsite Variety: The park features over 70 campsites, including 29 full hookup (electric, water, sewer) sites, 21 electric-only sites, and 21 no-hookup (rustic) sites. There are also gravel and grass sites, with options for pull-thrus (6 available) and back-ins (25x50 feet). Some sites are also equipped with 50-amp service. They also offer two rustic walk-in tent sites, a full-size family tent, and two yurts for rent.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Campers have access to clean, well-maintained restrooms and hot showers. Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness and availability of these facilities. Showers are coin-operated, typically costing $.25 for 6 minutes.
• Potable Water: Potable water is readily available throughout the campground, with spigots often located near campsites, and a water fill-up station.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available in the parking lot for RV campers to dispose of wastewater properly.
• Free Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available at overnight sites and throughout the park, allowing campers to stay connected while enjoying their outdoor getaway.
• On-Site Picnic Area: A dedicated picnic area provides space for day-use visitors and campers to enjoy meals outdoors. A large picnic pavilion with a stone fireplace is located at the waterfront and can be rented for group events.
• Boat Launch and Fishing Pier: The park features a boat launch for easy access to Lake Independence for motorized and non-motorized watercraft. There is also a fishing pier, making it convenient for anglers.
• Swimming Beach: A beautiful, clean, and sandy beach on Lake Independence offers safe swimming with shallow areas for children and deeper sections for adults. Lifeguards may be on duty during peak season.
• Playground Facilities: A playground is available for children, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.
• Recreational Courts: The park includes recreational facilities like a volleyball court and a basketball court, encouraging active play.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for enjoying campfires and outdoor meals. Firewood is sold and delivered at the park entrance.
• Accessibility Features: The park has made efforts to be accessible, with some accessible campsites, parking, and renovated shower/restroom facilities, and wheelchair-accessible trails.
• Proximity to Local Amenities: While not directly on-site, a general store, laundromat, and restaurant are conveniently located right across the street from the park entrance, providing easy access to essential supplies and dining options.

Features / Highlights

• Prime Lakeside Location: Situated directly on Lake Independence, the campground offers stunning views, easy water access, and the tranquility of a lakeside setting. Many sites boast views of the lake and beautiful sunrises.
• Exceptional Sandy Beach: The park boasts an "amazing" and "beautiful" sandy beach on Lake Independence, with clean, clear, and warm shallow water perfect for families with children, and deeper areas for swimming.
• Variety of Campsite Options: From full hookup sites for large RVs to rustic tent sites and even rentable yurts, Perkins Park caters to every type of camper, ensuring a suitable spot for any preference.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a playground, beach activities, sports courts, and a generally welcoming vibe, the park is highly praised as a fantastic destination for families and groups.
• Abundant Water Recreation: The boat launch and fishing pier provide excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on Lake Independence, known for its good fishing.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers consistently commend the cleanliness and upkeep of the restrooms, showers, and overall campground grounds, making for a comfortable and pleasant stay.
• Value for Money: Many visitors highlight the very reasonable prices for campsites, especially considering the range of amenities and the prime location, making it a budget-friendly option compared to state parks.
• Proximity to Big Bay Amenities: Within walking distance, campers can find a general store (Cram's General Store), gas station, laundromat, and a restaurant, adding convenience to the outdoor experience.
• Trails for Exploration: The park features walking trails, including an observation deck, and nearby opportunities for mountain biking and hiking, allowing campers to explore the surrounding natural beauty.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviewers frequently mention the friendly, helpful, and attentive staff, who contribute significantly to a positive camping experience.
• Easy Access to Marquette Attractions: Being just a half-hour north of Marquette, Perkins Park serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring other Upper Peninsula attractions, including waterfalls (like Alder Falls and Yellow Dog River Falls), the Big Bay Point Lighthouse, and the amenities of Marquette city.
• Historic Charm: The area has a rich lumbering history, with old rail ties visible on some trails, and the movie "Anatomy of a Murder" was filmed in Big Bay, showcasing the area's charm.

Contact Information

To plan your delightful camping trip to Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area, or for any inquiries, please use the contact information below:

Address: Big Bay, MI 49855, USA (Located on County Road 550)

Phone: (906) 345-9353

You can also find more information and potentially make reservations through the Marquette County website or other popular camping reservation platforms like RVParx.com or The Dyrt. The park is typically open seasonally, from approximately May 15 to September 15.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michigan residents, Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area in Big Bay is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and local charm. Its appeal to Michiganders is multi-faceted, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, the park's location on Lake Independence provides a quintessential Michigan lakeside experience that is both accessible and beautiful. Locals can enjoy the warm, clean waters of the sandy beach, which is particularly safe and enjoyable for families with children. The ease of launching a boat or fishing from the pier means that beloved Michigan pastimes are readily available without extensive travel or hassle, maximizing precious leisure time.

Secondly, the variety of campsite options, from full hookup RV sites to rustic tent spots, ensures that Perkins Park can accommodate different camping styles and preferences, making it inclusive for all Michiganders. Whether you own a large RV or prefer a simple tent, there’s a comfortable and affordable spot waiting. This flexibility, combined with highly praised clean restrooms and hot showers, elevates the camping experience beyond just a wilderness retreat, offering comfort in a natural setting.

Furthermore, the friendly staff, reasonable pricing (often noted as better value than state parks), and the convenient proximity to local amenities like Cram's General Store across the street add significant value. This means locals can enjoy a relaxing outdoor vacation without feeling completely isolated from necessities, or needing to stock up excessively before arrival. The nearby hiking trails and the short drive to Marquette for additional activities further enhance the appeal, providing a balanced mix of on-site relaxation and off-site exploration.

In essence, Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area is a true gem in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It offers a family-friendly, amenity-rich, and beautifully situated camping experience that perfectly caters to the desires of local Michiganders seeking an enjoyable, convenient, and memorable outdoor adventure in their own magnificent state.

Perkins Park Campground & Picnic Area

Big Bay, MI 49855, USA