Bay Furnace Campground
4.47119 reviewsP.O. Box 171, Munising, MI 49862, USA
Bay Furnace Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard nonelectric sites are available at $24.00 per night during peak and first-come-first-served seasons. Additional reservation fees apply ($8 online or app, $9 through the contact center).
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine south shore of Lake Superior, Bay Furnace Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern convenience. Choose from reservable sites for peace of mind or embrace spontaneity with first-come-first-served options, all welcoming both tent campers and RV travelers. Essential amenities including fresh drinking water and clean vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay, while the inviting day-use picnic area near the lake's edge creates the perfect setting for memorable meals with breathtaking water views.
Bay Furnace Campground features reservable single sites suitable for both tent and RV camping, along with first-come, first-served options during certain parts of the season.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the fascinating pig iron furnace ruins, where industrial heritage meets natural splendor. A gentle interpretive loop trail, just a short stroll from your campsite, reveals the compelling story of this historic site where iron once flowed and industry thrived. These weathered ruins stand as silent sentinels to the region's transformation from industrial powerhouse to recreational paradise.
Weather and SeasonsLake Superior's mighty presence creates a dynamic weather theater that keeps every day interesting. During prime camping months, temperatures dance between a crisp 30°F and a pleasant 70°F, often shifting dramatically when lake winds sweep through the forest. The great lake's moods bring frequent rain showers that nourish the lush surroundings, while summer evenings may feature the gentle hum of mosquitoes—nature's reminder to pack your bug spray for this authentic wilderness experience.
ElevationElevation information is not available.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to spectacular sunrises painting Lake Superior's vast canvas while camping beneath a canopy of vibrant deciduous trees. The campground's private beach grants access to the lake's famously crystal-clear waters, where countless multi-hued stones create nature's own mosaic along the shoreline. As day turns to dusk, witness breathtaking sunsets that give way to star-filled skies, occasionally graced by the ethereal dance of the northern lights. Nearby Furnace Creek adds its gentle melody to the symphony of natural sounds that define this remarkable landscape.
Geological RegionPositioned within the majestic Hiawatha National Forest, Bay Furnace Campground claims an enviable spot on Lake Superior's legendary south shore. This geological wonderland showcases the harmonious meeting of ancient deciduous forests and the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area. The nearby Furnace Creek carves its path through the landscape, while the open waters of Superior serve as nature's theater for spectacular sunset performances and, on fortunate nights, the mesmerizing aurora borealis dancing across the northern sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and drinking water stations are available throughout the campground. Specific sites are marked as accessible, but detailed ADA compliance information is not provided.
Sites SizeMixed-sized sites. Some users describe certain sites as large, shaded, or spacious (e.g., site 13), while others found roomier accommodations for RVs (e.g., 32 ft rigs fit comfortably).
Sites PrivacyMost sites are screened with vegetation for privacy, though some, particularly near the roadway, are less secluded. Sites like 13 and 15 are noted for being highly private.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites on the western loop for proximity to the lake. Sites #9 and #10 are ideal for beachfront access; #13 is good for privacy.
Best CampsitesSites #9 and #10 are highly rated for lake access and scenic views. Site #13 offers privacy and access to Lake Superior.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle for an additional per-night fee.
Groups
Details on group site accommodations and capacity are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops, with sites spaced apart to ensure privacy. Western loop sites are closer to the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23rd to October 7th (reservable season). Closed from October 7th to May 22nd.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online on Recreation.gov. Contact center and app reservations are also available.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during shoulder seasons, such as late September and early October.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are possible ahead of arrival. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No-show reservations incur a $20 penalty.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Bay Furnace Campground are centered around its scenic location on Lake Superior. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, along with cultural experiences such as exploring the Bay Furnace Ruins. Nearby attractions include Grand Island and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Hiking
Hiking trails on Grand Island, accessible by a short ferry ride, are highly recommended for their scenic beauty. User feedback often highlights Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore as a popular nearby hiking destination.Fishing
Fishing in Lake Superior is best done by boat, with nearby ramps available in Munising (5 miles away) and AuTrain (10 miles away). Anglers often target lake trout and salmon.Swimming
Swimming is available along the beach. User reviews describe the water as clean and clear, but some warn about rocky areas requiring water shoes.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available on Grand Island, providing options for both recreational and advanced riders. Trails within the campground are not specified.Boating
Boating opportunities include ferry rides to Grand Island and various excursions exploring Lake Superior’s natural rock formations. Private boat docking is not available directly on-site.Wildlife viewing
User reviews mention opportunities for observing wildlife and exploring natural features, though specific sightings are not detailed.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and rock hunting. Some users also highlight the scenic sunsets and northern lights as part of the beach experience.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational opportunities include exploring the Bay Furnace Ruins, described as historical and informative by visitors. Interpretive signage is available.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular among visitors, especially at nearby Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to use locally-sourced firewood.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but specific times are not mentioned. Generator use restrictions apply.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and sand fleas are common hazards. Sharp slag glass near the waterfront can harm pets. Potholes on the access road pose risks to vehicles.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories noted.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Munising, which is 3 miles from the campground. This includes hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 07, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, though no recycling facilities are reported. Users suggest adding waste containers at the dump station for convenience.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Lake Superior with direct beach access from some sites. Furnace Creek runs adjacent.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include road conditions leading to the campground, occasional noise from nearby highways, and unclean bathrooms during some stays.
HostHosts Jill and Darin Pope are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness in maintaining clean facilities and providing helpful guidance.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 171, Munising, MI 49862, USA
Driving directionsBay Furnace Campground is located in Alger County, about 3 miles west of Munising on Highway 28, at the village of Christmas, across from the Kewadin Casino.
The campground is easily accessible off Highway 28, approximately 3 miles west of Munising. The entrance road to the campground is noted to be in poor condition, with multiple reviews mentioning potholes and the need for repair. Seasonal closures occur from October 7th through May 22nd.Nearby places
Munising (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes), AuTrain (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be sourced from Munising (3 miles away). There is also a gas station and small lodge across the street from the campground entrance.
Camper Reviews
4.5
119 reviews
Bay Furnace Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bay Furnace Campground generally praise the cleanliness of facilities, scenic location on Lake Superior, and proximity to attractions like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Concerns include road conditions and occasional noise from nearby highways.
Review Summaries
Based on 119 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include clean vault toilets, spacious and private campsites, helpful hosts, access to Lake Superior, proximity to Munising, and the historical Bay Furnace Ruins.
Based on 119 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints from users include poor road conditions leading into the park, noise from nearby highways, lack of showers, and inconsistent handling of campsite reservations.
Based on 119 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing water shoes for the rocky beach, hand sanitizer for vault toilets, and insect repellent due to mosquitoes. Early arrival is recommended for first-come, first-served sites.
Based on 119 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews during summer highlight the campground’s scenic beauty, but some campers report issues with bugs and fluctuating weather. Fall visits are noted for peacefulness and vibrant foliage but are...
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Camper Quotes
1. "The vault toilets were cleaner than any other campground we've visited." 2. "Site 13 exceeded our expectations! Private and surrounded by beautiful tall pines." 3. "The sunsets were my favorite...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Spot 9 and 10 are highly rated for their proximity to Lake Superior. Site 13 is described as spacious and private. Site 37 received complaints about noise from diesel trucks and smells from nearby...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available, but detailed ADA compliance features are not mentioned. Some sites may be challenging for mobility-impaired visitors due to uneven terrain.
Based on 119 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed with a limit of two per site. Some users warn about sharp slag glass near the shoreline, which caused injuries to a dog’s paw in one instance.
Based on 119 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025