Freighterview Campsite On Grand Island
4.4414 reviews400 E. Munising Ave
Freighterview Campsite On Grand Island
$8.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
Fees vary depending on the type of site or cabin. Campsites range from $8 for primitive sites to $120 for cabins.
About this campground
Perched on the windswept northeastern tip of Grand Island, Freighterview Campsite rewards adventurous souls with an intimate wilderness retreat where Lake Superior's endless horizon becomes your backyard. This secluded gem, accessible only by a moderately challenging trail, offers the perfect escape for those seeking solitude amid one of Michigan's most spectacular natural settings.
Freighterview is a primitive campground with minimal amenities. Its remote location and trail-only access make it most suitable for experienced campers.
Historical SignificanceYou'll be camping on sacred ground where ancient peoples left their mark over 4,000 years ago. Grand Island's designation as a National Recreation Area preserves not just pristine wilderness, but echoes of human stories stretching back to 2000 BC. Historic buildings dot the landscape, silent witnesses to generations of Native Americans, fur traders, and early settlers who found shelter and sustenance on these shores.
Weather and SeasonsLake Superior's mighty presence shapes every breeze at Freighterview, keeping summer temperatures refreshingly cool with highs hovering in the comfortable 60s°F. The sweet spot for camping stretches from late spring's wildflower blooms through early fall's painted leaves, when crisp mornings give way to sun-dappled afternoons perfect for exploring the island's hidden corners.
ElevationFrom your elevated perch high above Lake Superior's cobalt waters, Freighterview commands a bird's-eye perspective that transforms sunrise and sunset into unforgettable theater. This lofty vantage point puts you eye-to-eye with soaring eagles while the great lake stretches endlessly below.
Natural Features and SceneryWrapped in a verdant embrace of old-growth forest, Freighterview immerses you in nature's cathedral where sunlight filters through dense canopy overhead. A short scramble leads to dramatic clifftops where panoramic vistas of Lake Superior steal your breath away—watch ore boats crawl across the horizon while waves crash against ancient rock faces far below.
Geological RegionGrand Island rises from Lake Superior like a forested jewel in Michigan's rugged Upper Peninsula, where ancient sandstone cliffs tell stories written in stone. This geological wonderland seamlessly blends towering escarpments with sugar-sand beaches, while dense northern forests shelter centuries of human history among their moss-covered secrets.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is accessible via the island's trail system and is not reachable by kayak. Hikers should prepare for a roughly 11-mile journey to the site.
Sites SizeThe site can accommodate up to 6 people in two tents. It includes a fire ring, benches, and a bear box.
Sites PrivacyThe site is described as very private, surrounded by trees, and near the northeast point of Grand Island.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose this site for its privacy and access to the Northeast Point lookout.
Best CampsitesFreighterview is the only campsite at this location, praised for its proximity to scenic lookout points.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of two nights per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people and 2 tents per campsite.
Groups
No group sites are available at Freighterview Campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe site is divided into sections for sleeping, campfire area, and amenities like bear box and pit latrine.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from late May to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served sites available during the open season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least one day before the reservation start date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Freighterview Campsite offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and star gazing. The nearby northeast point provides stunning views of Lake Superior, making it an ideal spot for sunrise, sunset, and stargazing.
Hiking
With over 30 miles of unsurfaced trails on Grand Island, Freighterview Campsite is a perfect base for hikers. The site itself is a midpoint for the Rim Trail, making it a convenient halfway stop for multi-day hikers.Fishing
Lake Superior offers fishing opportunities for species like Coho salmon, lake trout, and perch. A Michigan fishing license is required.Swimming
Swimming conditions vary depending on the site chosen along Grand Island’s shoreline. Visitors should exercise caution due to the cold water temperature and limited safety oversight.Biking
The island features over 30 miles of biking trails, which are shared with hikers and provide varying levels of difficulty.Boating
While personal watercraft like Jet Skis are not allowed, kayakers can access parts of the island. The northeast side, near Freighterview, has cliffs that limit shoreline access.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can enjoy observing local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. The dense foliage around the campsite makes it an excellent spot for bird watching.Winter Activities
In the winter, visitors may snowshoe or cross-country ski on the island, but specific activities near Freighterview are not mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking is a popular water sport on the island, though it is not directly accessible from Freighterview Campsite.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings only.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential mosquitos and other insects; wildlife such as bears; limited water sources requiring filtration or treatment.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.1 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
Munising Memorial Hospital, located approximately 3 miles from the ferry landing.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May through October.
Trash and recyclingCampers must pack out all trash, as there are no waste disposal facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 1 mile west to North Beach for access to Lake Superior, with filtering required for drinking water.
Common complaintsSome complaints mention limited space for tents and hammocks, overgrown foliage, and fallen trees due to beech bark disease.
HostNo hosts available at the site, but a campground host is stationed at Grand Island Landing.
Campground Map
400 E. Munising Ave
Driving directionsVisitors can get to the island via passenger ferry (Grand Island Ferry Service) or private watercraft. The ferry departs from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located on M-28, about 3 to 4 miles west of Munising's blinking light. Look for the Grand Island NRA signs. Prices and schedules vary from season to season. For information or reservations, call (906) 387-2600 or visit their website at http://www.grandislandup.com/.
Access is via ferry service from Grand Island Landing or private watercraft. Roads in the area are paved, but ferry schedules vary by season.Nearby places
Munising (3 miles to ferry landing), Marquette (43 miles), Manistique (55 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available in Munising, approximately 3 miles from the ferry landing.
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Freighterview Campsite On Grand Island is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Freighterview Campsite has received high praise for its scenic views and secluded location. Many reviewers emphasize the site's proximity to stunning overlooks and the serenity it offers, making it a popular choice for hikers and nature lovers.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlighted the spectacular sunset views from the nearby northeast point, the well-maintained bear box, and the peaceful ambiance of the site. 'The perfect halfway spot on the Rim Trail' and...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers noted the site’s small size, overgrown foliage, and the inconvenience of the nearest water source being a mile away at North Beach. Others mentioned fallen trees and limited space for...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water or a filter due to limited nearby water sources. They suggest utilizing the northeast point for sunset views and stargazing. Travelers are also advised to...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is noted as the most favorable season due to reduced bugs, fewer visitors, and cooler weather. Winter can be challenging for access, and summer may bring mosquitoes and higher foot traffic.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Very private site just across the trail from the North East Point lookout, which is stunning, especially at dawn and sunset.'
2. 'The perfect halfway spot on the rim trail for a two-day hike...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Freighterview campsite is frequently praised for its proximity to the northeast point of Grand Island, which offers unparalleled views of Lake Superior. It is described as a 'nice breakpoint to split...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility to the site is limited to hiking, and the steep terrain may make it less suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences with pets at this campsite.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025