Little Duck Campsite On Grand Island
4.227 reviews400 E. Munising Ave, Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Little Duck 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
Camping fees range from $8 for primitive campsites to $120 for cabins. Reservation fees and cancellation fees apply.
About this campground
Tucked away in a peaceful corner of Grand Island, Little Duck Campsite beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This intimate site serves as your personal gateway to the pristine shores of Trout Bay Beach, where Lake Superior's crystal-clear waters stretch endlessly toward the horizon. Though thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities—a clean latrine, secure food storage locker, crackling fire ring, and sturdy benches for evening gatherings—the campsite maintains its wild charm, offering just enough comfort while keeping you connected to nature's rhythms.
Little Duck Campsite is a primitive tent-only site where campers can enjoy a rugged camping experience amid natural beauty.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where ancient history whispers through the trees. Archaeological treasures scattered across the island tell stories of human presence dating back to 2,000 BC, while weathered historic buildings stand as testament to more recent chapters of island life. Recognized by Congress as a National Recreation Area, Grand Island preserves not just natural beauty but millennia of human heritage, inviting modern visitors to become part of this continuing story.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings refreshing lake breezes and comfortable temperatures that rarely climb above the high 60s, creating perfect conditions for hiking and beachcombing without the sweltering heat found elsewhere. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, crisp air signals the approaching winter, when snow blankets the island in serene white and temperatures dip below freezing, transforming this summer paradise into a winter wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here in the colder months.
Natural Features and SceneryGrand Island unfolds like nature's masterpiece, where towering sandstone cliffs rise majestically from Superior's sapphire waters, their ancient faces carved by centuries of waves and weather. Dense forests carpet the island's interior, creating a emerald sanctuary where sunlight filters through the canopy in dancing patterns. Hidden beaches of soft sand offer secret spots for contemplation, while dramatic overlooks reveal sweeping vistas of the world's largest freshwater lake, its moods shifting from mirror-calm mornings to storm-tossed afternoons.
Geological RegionNestled within the protective embrace of Hiawatha National Forest, Grand Island stands as a geological marvel where time has sculpted extraordinary beauty. Massive sandstone cliffs soar 300 feet above the lake, their wave-carved facades telling the story of Superior's ancient power. These dramatic ramparts give way to verdant forests that cascade down to hidden sandy coves, while remnants of bygone eras peek through the greenery, creating a landscape where natural grandeur and human history intertwine in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Little Duck Campsite is approximately 2.5 miles from Williams Landing (ferry arrival point) and can also be accessed by kayakers via Trout Bay Beach. It is located on the island's trail system.
Sites SizeThe campsite is medium-sized and can accommodate up to 4 people in two tents.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers a secluded and quiet atmosphere, allowing for a sense of solitude and connection with nature.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Little Duck for privacy and beach access.
Best CampsitesLittle Duck Campsite is highly praised for its solitude and proximity to the beach.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 4 people for Little Duck Campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle campsite located 50 yards from Trout Bay Beach; access via trails or kayak landing.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 27 - October 10 for cabins; primitive campsites may be seasonal.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and the Grand Island Ferry Service.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; advanced reservations strongly recommended.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A range of outdoor activities can be enjoyed at this campsite, including hiking, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Visitors to the Little Duck Campsite have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Grand Island and its surroundings.
Hiking
Over 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails are accessible on the island, providing a mix of difficulty levels and scenic views. These trails connect various parts of the island, including scenic cliffs and beaches.Fishing
Fishing is available in Lake Superior, with a variety of species such as Coho salmon, lake trout, perch, pike, walleye, and rock bass. A valid Michigan fishing license is required.Swimming
Direct access to Trout Bay Beach makes swimming a popular activity. However, Lake Superior's waters can be cold, with average high temperatures in the 60s (F).Biking
Mountain biking trails parallel the hiking paths and provide thrilling rides through the island's varying terrain, leading to breathtaking scenic points.Boating
Kayakers can reach the campsite via Trout Bay Beach. Larger boats have limited access and must be parked away from the dock area for loading/unloading only.Wildlife viewing
The island features diverse wildlife, including deer, bear, and ducks, as well as smaller fauna. Beach combing and peaceful observation opportunities abound.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing, beachcombing, and general relaxation on Trout Bay Beach, a short walk (50 yards) from the campsite.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are supported, with easy access to the shorelines around Trout Bay.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings and benches are provided.
- Quiet hours are enforced; however, specific hours are not listed.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are present on the island; food storage rules must be followed. Swimming areas are unmonitored.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.9 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
Nearest emergency services are in Munising, including a hospital, police station, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 27 - October 10
Trash and recyclingCampers are expected to pack in and pack out all trash, as no trash or recycling facilities are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated 50 yards from Lake Superior and Trout Bay Beach.
Common complaints"Actual campsite is poorly marked from the main road."
HostNo on-site host; contact the Grand Island Ferry Service or ranger station for assistance.
Campground Map
400 E. Munising Ave, Munising, MI, 49862, USA
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 the Munising's blinking light. Look for the Grand Island NRA signs.
The site is accessible by ferry or private watercraft; roads to the ferry are standard paved highways. The ferry dock is about 3 miles west of Munising.Nearby places
Munising: 0 miles
Marquette: 43 miles
Manistique: 55 miles.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available in Munising, MI.
Camper Reviews
4.2
7 reviews
Little Duck Campsite On Grand Island is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Little Duck Campsite is highly rated for its seclusion, natural beauty, and proximity to Trout Bay Beach. Visitors appreciate the peacefulness of the location and the opportunity to disconnect from daily life.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include access to the beach, the ample provision of firewood on-site, and the quiet and solitude of the area. Visitors also appreciate easy access to hiking and kayaking.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted the difficulty in locating the site from the main road due to poor signage and the presence of bears on the island, requiring caution when storing food.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing adequate drinking water or water filtration systems, given that potable water is not immediately available. They also encourage future campers to prepare for potentially...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer months are particularly popular due to more stable weather conditions and warm temperatures. Reviewers emphasize the beauty of the natural environment in warmer months, although nights can...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'What a fantastic place to camp! Trout Bay is peaceful and relaxing!! You'll find yourself sitting on the sand looking at the views for hours!!' – Walter R. (10/10/2022). 2. 'Amazing experience....
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Many visitors recommend the Little Duck Campsite specifically for its secluded location and access to Trout Bay Beach. The site's fire ring and benches enhance the camping experience.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025