The Porkies Union Bay

For Michiganders seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure with the perfect blend of modern comfort and rugged wilderness, The Porkies Union Bay Campground stands as a premier destination. Located at the very doorstep of the iconic Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and boasting unparalleled access to the shores of Lake Superior, this state park campground offers a diverse range of camping experiences. If you're looking to explore the vast beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, from challenging hikes to serene lakeside sunsets, Union Bay Campground provides the ideal basecamp for your next adventure.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground is the sole modern campground within the expansive Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, offering a significant advantage for those who appreciate amenities like electrical service and modern restrooms. With 100 seasonal sites available from mid-May to mid-October, it caters to a wide variety of campers, from those with tents to large RVs. Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for traditional outdoor meals and evening gatherings under the vast U.P. sky. The campground's layout aims to provide accessibility to all its features, including the beautiful Lake Superior shoreline.

What truly sets The Porkies Union Bay apart for Michigan locals is its strategic location and the incredible natural experiences it offers. Imagine seeing "the sun rise AND set over the water!" a rare and breathtaking phenomenon possible from its Lake Superior vantage point. Beyond the stunning views, the campground provides direct access to the park's extensive network of "too many waterfalls and other natural beauty to see in one week," including the famous Lake of the Clouds. Additionally, for those seeking a unique experience, the park offers rustic yurts and even a "Tiny Quill House" for rent within the Union Bay area, blending rustic charm with some creature comforts. This combination of accessibility, amenities, and world-class natural attractions makes it an exceptional choice for Michiganders eager to explore their state's wilderness jewel.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground is strategically located on M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA. This places it directly at the eastern entrance to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, making it incredibly convenient for visitors planning to explore Michigan's largest state park. Its position along Lake Superior's Union Bay shoreline means that many campsites offer direct or very close access to the expansive waters of the Great Lake.

For Michigan residents, reaching Union Bay Campground is part of the scenic journey into the Upper Peninsula. From the Lower Peninsula, the route typically involves crossing the Mackinac Bridge and then heading west on major U.P. arteries like US-2 or M-28. M-107 then branches off directly to the park entrance and the campground. For instance, if traveling from Houghton or Ironwood, the drive is relatively straightforward along M-26 or US-2 respectively, connecting to M-107.

The campground is well-equipped for various vehicle types, featuring drive-in sites, though some sections might have less vegetative screening between sites. The paved roads within the park and gravel pads at the campsites ensure easy access for tents, trailers, and motorhomes. Its proximity to the Porcupine Mountains Visitor Center (often within walking distance or a very short drive via the Whitetail Path access trail) and nearby rental options for bikes, canoes, and kayaks further enhance its accessibility for exploring the vast park and Lake Superior. The park's sanitation station, also located at Union Bay Modern Campground, offers a convenient facility for RVs. This central and accessible location makes it an ideal base for Michiganders eager to immerse themselves in the "Porkies" and the stunning Lake Superior coast.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground, as a modern state park campground, offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors.

• Electrical Service: All 100 seasonal sites offer electrical service, with options for 20- or 30-amp service, catering to both tent campers with basic needs and RVs.

• Modern Restrooms with Showers: The campground features centrally located, modern toilet and shower buildings, providing comfortable and clean facilities. There are also self-pay laundry facilities available for camper convenience.

• Sanitation Station: A sanitation station with potable water and two lanes is available at the Union Bay Modern Campground for RVs and trailers to dump waste.

• Potable Water: Potable water is readily available throughout the campground for all campers.

• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor dining and campfires.

• Camp Store/Concession (Porcupine Mountain Outpost): Located at the entrance to the campground, this outpost sells firewood, ice, gifts, refreshments, and camping supplies. It also offers bicycle, canoe, and kayak rentals.

• Boat Launch: A boat launch adjacent to Union Bay Campground provides easy access to Lake Superior for boating and paddling.

• Fishing Pier: A fishing pier is located at the boating access site next to the campground, offering opportunities for anglers.

• Playground: An accessible playground has been installed in the campground (as of May 2021), providing a dedicated play area for children.

• Yurt and Tiny House Rentals: The park offers unique lodging options, including yurts (some pet-friendly) and a "Tiny Quill House" within the Union Bay area, providing a blend of rustic charm and convenience. Some yurts may not have power or running water inside but are close to modern campground bathrooms.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional destination for campers seeking to experience the best of Michigan's natural wonders.

• Direct Lake Superior Access and Views: The campground is located along the rocky and sandy shoreline of Union Bay on Lake Superior. Many sites offer direct views of the lake, providing incredible opportunities to witness both "sun rise AND set over the water," a truly unforgettable experience. The mile of sandy beach across the street invites swimming, sunbathing, and agate hunting.

• Gateway to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: As the main modern campground at the park's entrance, it offers immediate and easy access to "The Porkies" vast network of over 90 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Lake of the Clouds overlook and numerous waterfalls like Manido, Nawadadha, and Manabezho Falls.

• Modern Campground Comforts: Unlike many rustic U.P. campgrounds, Union Bay provides the convenience of electrical service at all sites, modern restroom facilities with hot showers, and a sanitation station, ensuring a comfortable stay for RVs and trailers.

• Diverse Camping Options: With 100 sites accommodating tents, trailers, and motor homes, plus unique yurt and tiny house rentals, there's an option for nearly every type of camper, from those seeking a semi-primitive experience to those desiring more amenities.

• On-Site Rentals and Supplies: The Porcupine Mountain Outpost at the entrance provides convenient access to firewood, ice, gifts, and essential camping supplies, as well as rentals for bicycles, canoes, and kayaks, making outdoor adventures readily available.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The inclusion of a playground and the overall safe, welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent choice for families with children, ensuring entertainment beyond the trails.

• Vibrant Natural Setting: Despite being a modern campground, it is still immersed in a large coastal forest area, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and experiencing the rugged, pristine beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

For inquiries, reservations, or additional information about The Porkies Union Bay Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA (The official check-in office is at 36714 M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953)

Phone for Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (General Info): (906) 885-5275

Phone for Reservations (MiDNRReservations): 1-800-44-PARKS (1-800-447-2757)

Online Reservations: Reservations for campsites, yurts, and the Tiny Quill House can be made via the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reservation system at MiDNRReservations.com.

It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for peak season (mid-May to mid-October) and popular times like the Porcupine Mountains Music Festival (late August), as sites, particularly the coveted lakefront ones, fill up quickly. Check-in is generally at the Union Bay Campground Office starting at 3 p.m. EST. For specific inquiries about campground operations, rules, or seasonal updates, contacting the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park directly or checking the Michigan DNR Parks & Recreation website for the park is advisable.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Michigan locals, offering a quintessential Upper Peninsula experience that caters to a wide range of preferences, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts to families seeking a comfortable base for exploration. For Michiganders, this campground truly encapsulates the best of what their home state has to offer.

Its prime location is arguably its strongest asset. Being right at the entrance to the vast Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park means Michiganders have immediate access to world-class hiking, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas like Lake of the Clouds without the need for extensive travel. This proximity allows for daily adventures into "The Porkies" unparalleled natural beauty, making it easy to return to a comfortable campsite at the end of the day.

Furthermore, the campground's position on Lake Superior's Union Bay shoreline provides Michiganders with direct access to one of the Great Lakes' most magnificent stretches of coast. The opportunity to witness both sunrise and sunset over the water, enjoy a sandy beach for swimming and relaxation, and even search for unique agates and Yooperlites, deeply resonates with the state's lake-centric culture. The availability of modern amenities like electrical hookups, clean showers, and a well-stocked camp store, combined with the option for more unique stays in yurts or the Tiny Quill House, ensures that whether you're bringing a large RV or prefer a cozy yurt, your stay will be comfortable and convenient.

This blend of modern comforts and immediate access to rugged wilderness, coupled with the family-friendly atmosphere and the wealth of recreational opportunities, makes The Porkies Union Bay Campground an ideal choice for Michiganders looking to create lasting memories in their own spectacular backyard. It’s a place where the wild heart of the U.P. is effortlessly accessible, inviting locals to return season after season.

The Porkies Union Bay

M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA