Driftwood Campsite

Hey there, Michigan adventurers! Are you dreaming of a camping experience where you can literally wake up to the sound of Lake Superior lapping at the shore, with a breathtaking sunrise painting the sky right outside your tent? If the thought of a secluded, primitive beach campsite sounds like your kind of paradise, then Driftwood Campsite on Grand Island, near Munising, is calling your name. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an immersive experience in one of Michigan's most stunning natural settings.

Described by visitors as "one of the better primitive campsites" and so beautiful that "it's hard to use words to describe," Driftwood Campsite offers a unique blend of ruggedness and unparalleled natural beauty. This isn't a drive-up, RV-friendly spot; it's a true wilderness retreat accessible by foot, bike, or kayak, designed for those who seek genuine solitude and a deep connection with Lake Superior. In this article, we'll dive into what makes Driftwood Campsite such a remarkable destination for Michiganders looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, detailing its unique location, the essential services you'll find (or won't!), its most captivating features, and how to plan your visit. Get ready to discover a slice of pure Michigan magic!

Driftwood Campsite is uniquely situated on Grand Island, a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area located in Lake Superior, just about half a mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. Munising itself is a vibrant gateway to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Hiawatha National Forest, nestled in Michigan's awe-inspiring Upper Peninsula.

To reach Driftwood Campsite, visitors must first get to Grand Island. Public vehicles are not allowed on the island, meaning access to the campsite is strictly by hike, bike, or boat (specifically kayak, as the site is accessible to kayakers via Trout Bay Beach). The most common way to get to Grand Island is via the Grand Island Passenger Ferry Service, which departs from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located a few miles west of Munising on M-28. The ferry ride provides scenic views as you cross to William's Landing, the ferry service arrival point and visitor information center on the island.

Once on Grand Island, Driftwood Campsite is approximately 2.5 miles from William's Landing, requiring a hike or bike ride along the island's trail system. The campsite itself is strategically located approximately 50 yards from Lake Superior and Trout Bay Beach, offering direct access to the water and stunning views. This multi-modal approach to access adds to the adventurous spirit of visiting Driftwood Campsite, ensuring a more secluded and truly immersive experience.

• Primitive Campsite: Driftwood is a primitive campsite, meaning amenities are basic. It is designed to accommodate up to 4 people and two tents, making it ideal for small groups or families seeking a rustic experience.

• Fire Pit and Grill: Each campsite features a built-in fire pit with a grill, perfect for cooking over an open flame and enjoying a traditional campfire experience. Firewood is often provided or available near the campsite.

• Benches: For comfort and convenience, benches are provided at or near the campsite, offering seating around the fire pit.

• Latrine: A latrine (vault toilet) is provided in or near the campsite. Reviewers have praised the cleanliness of such facilities in the area, contributing to a more comfortable primitive experience.

• Food Storage (Bear Pole and Locker): As Grand Island is bear country, each campsite is equipped with a food storage pole and a bear locker (or bear box). Campers are required to store all food and scented items here to prevent bear encounters.

• No Potable Water On-site: There is no direct potable (drinking) water available at Driftwood Campsite. The nearest potable water source is approximately 1 mile south at Murray Bay Day Use Area. Campers must plan ahead and bring their own drinking water, or be prepared to filter, boil, or treat water from Lake Superior.

• No Hookups: As a primitive, hike-in/boat-in site, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Campers must be fully self-sufficient.

• No Supplies or Trash Cans on Island: There are no stores or supplies available on Grand Island. All trash must be packed out. Visitors should be prepared to pack in and pack out everything they need and all their waste, adhering strictly to Leave No Trace principles.

• Reservations Required: During the peak season (Memorial Day through Columbus Day), camping at Driftwood is by reservation only. Walk-ins are not allowed. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling the National Recreation Reservation System. Off-season use (mid-October to late May) does not require reservations, but ferry service is not available, and travel over ice is not recommended.

• Fees: There is a camping fee per night per site (e.g., $8-$10 per night as per past data), and an additional Grand Island User Permit fee (often included in the passenger ferry fee or payable on the island if arriving by private boat).

• Beachfront Camping on Lake Superior: The absolute standout feature of Driftwood Campsite is its location directly "on the beach" of Lake Superior at Trout Bay. This provides unparalleled access to the water and incredibly scenic views, a rare find in primitive camping.

• Stunning Sunrises: Reviewers rave about the "amazing" view of the sunrise from the campsite, making early mornings a highlight of the stay.

• Exceptional Natural Beauty: Grand Island itself is a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area, boasting massive sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and pristine beaches. The beauty of this site is truly hard to put into words, offering a visually stunning backdrop for your camping experience.

• Primitive and Secluded: For those who truly want to disconnect and experience wilderness, Driftwood delivers. Its hike-in/kayak-in access ensures a high degree of solitude, away from the crowds and noise of more developed campgrounds.

• Wildlife Viewing: Grand Island is home to black bears (hence the bear boxes) and other wildlife. Opportunities for observing local fauna are common, adding to the wilderness experience.

• Kayaking and Boating Access: Being right on Trout Bay Beach, the campsite is ideal for kayakers, offering direct water access for paddling adventures around the island and Lake Superior.

• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: The island features an extensive trail system, perfect for exploring by foot or bike, allowing campers to discover Grand Island's diverse landscapes and historic sites.

• Dark Skies for Stargazing: The remote location and minimal light pollution on Grand Island provide excellent conditions for stargazing on clear nights.

• Nearby Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: While on Grand Island, campers are just a ferry ride away from the iconic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the mainland, offering further opportunities for sightseeing, boat tours, and waterfall exploration.

Driftwood Campsite is managed by the USDA Forest Service as part of the Hiawatha National Forest, specifically under the Grand Island National Recreation Area near Munising.

Address: Munising, MI 49862, USA (This is the general area for Grand Island, located in Lake Superior off Munising.)

For reservations and general inquiries about the campground:

National Recreation Reservation System:

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the national reservation line for federal campgrounds.)

For specific information regarding Grand Island, conditions, ferry schedules, or bear safety:

Munising Ranger District (Hiawatha National Forest):

Phone: (906) 387-2512

Grand Island Ferry Service (for transportation to the island):

Phone: (906) 387-2600 or visit their website at grandislandup.com.

It is highly recommended to visit Recreation.gov (search for "Driftwood Campsite on Grand Island") for reservations and the official Hiawatha National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/hiawatha) for the most current information, alerts, and safety guidelines before planning your trip.

For Michiganders, Driftwood Campsite on Grand Island represents a truly iconic and highly suitable camping destination, offering an experience that embodies the wild, beautiful spirit of the Upper Peninsula. While it requires a bit more planning and effort due to its primitive, hike-in/kayak-in nature, the rewards are immeasurable.

If you're a local who has explored many of Michigan's drive-up campgrounds and yearns for something more raw and secluded, Driftwood is your answer. It's perfect for those who appreciate the tranquility of a truly quiet campsite, far from highway noise and bustling crowds. The opportunity to camp directly on the beach of Lake Superior, with access to a built-in fire pit and grill, is a rare gem in the state, offering "amazing" sunrises that will etch themselves into your memory.

This campsite encourages self-reliance and a deeper connection with nature, away from modern conveniences. It's an ideal spot for kayakers, hikers, and anyone looking for an active yet peaceful escape. The presence of bear boxes and clear guidelines ensures a safe interaction with the island's wildlife.

For Michiganders, Driftwood Campsite isn't just a place to camp; it's an adventure into the heart of the Hiawatha National Forest and the pristine waters of Lake Superior. It offers a unique blend of rugged beauty, peaceful solitude, and unforgettable natural phenomena. If you're ready to embrace a primitive yet profoundly rewarding outdoor experience, secure your reservation, pack light but smart, and prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of Driftwood Campsite on Grand Island – a true Michigan treasure.