Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)
4.68165 reviews19456 W Lakeshore Drive, Brimley MI 49715
Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi)
$21.00 - $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$21.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season charges: $24 for standard nonelectric sites and $21 for walk-in sites. Reservation fees vary based on method ($8 online/app, $9 through contact center, $3 in-person). Additional fees may apply for cancellations ($10) and late arrivals.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Superior's Whitefish Bay, Bay View Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Here, beneath a canopy of towering pines, rustic campsites offer front-row seats to one of the Great Lakes' most dramatic coastlines. Adventure awaits just moments away, from the thundering cascade of Tahquamenon Falls to the historic beacon of Whitefish Point Lighthouse and the fascinating Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, where tales of maritime history come alive.
Bay View Campground caters to a rustic camping experience, offering facilities for tent and RV camping. Walk-in sites and reservable spots are available.
Historical SignificanceWhitefish Bay holds a haunting place in Great Lakes maritime history, earning the somber nickname 'Graveyard of the Great Lakes' for the numerous vessels that met their fate in these waters. The nearby Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum serves as a captivating gateway to these stories, preserving artifacts and memories of brave sailors who navigated these treacherous waters. Historic lighthouse stations stand as sentinels along the coast, their beacons having guided countless vessels to safety through fog and storm.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings gentle warmth to this northern paradise, though Lake Superior's influence keeps evenings refreshingly cool—perfect for campfire gatherings. The mighty lake occasionally flexes its muscles with dramatic winds that whisper through the pines and create mesmerizing waves along the shore. As seasons change, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland blanketed in snow, while the dramatic shift in daylight hours—from endless summer evenings to cozy winter nights—adds to the region's ever-changing character.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle lapping of waves on sandy beaches and spend your days exploring the stunning natural tapestry of Whitefish Bay. Majestic pine trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering golden sunlight by day and framing spectacular Lake Superior sunsets each evening. This pristine stretch of coastline serves as a vital corridor for migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers who might spot everything from tiny warblers to magnificent raptors. The interplay of forest, beach, and endless blue horizon creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Geological RegionPerched on the edge of Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula, Bay View Campground occupies a special place where ancient geological forces meet modern natural wonder. This section of Lake Superior's Whitefish Bay showcases the dramatic results of glacial carving and centuries of wave action. Known internationally for its concentration of shipwrecks preserved in the lake's cold depths, the area also serves as a crucial stopover along North America's migratory bird flyways. Historic lighthouse stations dot the coastline, standing as monuments to both human ingenuity and nature's power.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and flat tent pads are available, along with proximity to water pumps and pathways.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and well-separated, with many accommodating multiple tents or large RVs. Specific sites, such as Site 17, are praised for their size and level ground.
Sites PrivacySites are heavily shaded and secluded, offering a significant degree of privacy. Many campers noted the spread-out nature and tree barriers between sites.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBeachfront sites recommended for lake views. Sites near the road (e.g., #19) may experience higher noise levels.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated sites include #4, #7, #21, and #25, noted for beach access, seclusion, and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2 PM.
Check-out
By noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 2 vehicles per site.
Groups
No group camping details are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRustic layout with heavily shaded sites. Some sites offer direct beach access while others require short walks.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025 (peak season). First-come, first-served sites available May 14, 2026 - May 21, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov website and app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability outside peak season (May 14 - May 21, 2026). Walk-up sites are available during peak seasons based on site vacancy.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee up to 1 calendar day before the scheduled arrival. Late cancellations incur loss of the first night’s fee in addition to the cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bay View Campground provides access to a variety of activities, thanks to its prime location along Lake Superior. Visitors enjoy swimming, hiking, birding, beach walks, and stargazing. The proximity to attractions like Tahquamenon Falls adds to the recreational value.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include exploring nearby trails with scenic views, particularly during fall when colors are vibrant. Reviewers noted close trails and options for casual walks along Lake Superior's shores.Swimming
Swimming in Lake Superior is a favorite activity, despite the cold water. Reviewers frequently mention refreshing dips and the sandy beach's easy access.Wildlife viewing
Whitefish Bay is a natural corridor for migratory birds, making it ideal for birding and wildlife observation. Reviewers often mention observing local fauna.Beach activities
The sandy beach offers opportunities for long walks, sunbathing, and agate hunting. Many campers highlighted the beach's cleanliness and lack of pebbles.Winter Activities
Reviewers did not mention any winter-specific activities. This campground primarily operates during warmer months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated rings. Firewood must be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours enforced during evenings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, cold lake water, and occasional high winds.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 closest in Sault Ste. Marie, approximately a 30-minute drive away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal and recycling bins are available on-site, ensuring cleanliness and eco-friendliness.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Lake Superior with sandy beaches. No streams or rivers within the campground.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention generator noise from campground hosts and other minor inconveniences such as road noise.
HostHosts are frequently praised for their cleanliness, friendliness, and maintenance diligence. Names mentioned in reviews include Kathy, Pat, Ron, and Val.
Campground Map
19456 W Lakeshore Drive, Brimley MI 49715
Driving directionsFrom Brimley, Michigan, travel west on County Road 42/Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway for approximately 8 miles. Bay View Campground is located on the north side of the road.
Accessible via paved roads from Brimley, Michigan, along County Road 42/Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Brimley (8 miles, approx. 15-minute drive), Sault Ste. Marie (approx. 30-minute drive), Tahquamenon Falls (30 miles), Point Iroquois Lighthouse (8 miles), Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Whitefish Point Lighthouse (39 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials are available at Family Dollar and Walmart in Sault Ste. Marie (approx. 30-minute drive). Fuel and ice are available in Brimley, with local options such as Pickles Bar & Restaurant.
Camper Reviews
4.7
165 reviews
Bay View (Hiawatha National Forest, Mi) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Bay View Campground holds an average sentiment of 4.62 for general experiences and 4.56 for campground-specific ratings. Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the cleanliness, spaciousness, and well-maintained facilities. Hosts are described as friendly and attentive, contributing positively to the camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 165 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently commend the secluded sites, cleanliness of vault toilets, and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. Many rave about the starry skies, serenity, and the hosts' dedication to...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some campers noted road noise, unfriendly interactions with hosts, and busy conditions during peak seasons. One reviewer expressed concerns about selective rule enforcement and hosts disrupting...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve sites early during summer and holidays, as they fill up quickly. Bring supplies, as stores are 30 minutes away. Verizon users should download offline maps due to limited cell service. Opt for...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highly praised for warm weather, minimal bugs, and swimming opportunities. Fall is appreciated for its vibrant foliage and quieter atmosphere. Winter reviews are absent as the campground...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The cleanest pit toilets I have ever seen!' 2. 'Vault toilets were extremely well maintained and clean, and there is a water pump nearby.' 3. 'The sandy beach is great for long walks.' 4. 'Hosts...
Based on 165 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is praised for its proximity to the beach and privacy. Site #25 offers direct beach access via a private path. Site #19 is convenient for bathroom access but close to the road, making it less...
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Accessibility Features
Vault toilets and water pumps are praised for being accessible. No specific reviews from users with disabilities were mentioned.
Based on 165 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several reviewers appreciated the pet-friendly nature of the campground, but advised caution for sites near the road when bringing pets.
Based on 165 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025