Shelter Ridge Campsite On Grand Island
4.6414 reviews400 E. Munising Ave
Shelter Ridge 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$8.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Various fees apply depending on the type of site and season. Shelter Ridge site fee is $8.00 nightly, while cabin rates like Grand Island Cabins are $120 nightly during peak season.
About this campground
Escape to Shelter Ridge Campsite, a hidden gem nestled on the pristine shores of Grand Island where towering forests meet crystal-clear waters. This secluded sanctuary offers adventurers the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and essential camping comforts, including a primitive latrine, secure food storage pole, welcoming fire ring, and sturdy benches for gathering under starlit skies. Here, breathtaking overlooks reveal Lake Superior's endless horizon while sandy beaches invite barefoot exploration.
Shelter Ridge Campsite is a primitive camping site located on Grand Island. The location is well-suited for adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking for a remote experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where ancient history whispers through the trees. As part of a National Recreation Area, Grand Island preserves remarkable artifacts dating back to 2,000 BC, telling stories of the earliest inhabitants who called these shores home. Your adventure extends beyond the island to the nearby Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where nature has painted masterpieces in stone over millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle embrace of summer on Grand Island, where temperatures hover comfortably in the 60s°F, creating ideal conditions for hiking and exploration. While the air stays mild, Lake Superior maintains its legendary chill, offering a refreshing contrast for brave swimmers. Kayakers should note that seasonal winds can create varying conditions on the water, transforming calm mornings into afternoon adventures as nature's rhythms shape your journey.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape sculpted by time and tide, where massive sandstone cliffs rise majestically from Lake Superior's depths, creating a dramatic backdrop for your camping adventure. Wander through dense hardwood forests that burst with color each fall, stumble upon hidden inland lakes that mirror the sky, and explore beaches where soft sand meets ancient stone. In winter, nature transforms the wave-cut cliffs into magical ice caves, creating ephemeral galleries that exist only in the coldest months.
Geological RegionPerched on Michigan's wild Upper Peninsula, this extraordinary landscape showcases nature's architectural prowess. Dramatic 300-foot sandstone cliffs stand as sentinels over Lake Superior, their layers telling stories spanning millions of years. Between these ancient guardians, lush forests carpet the land in emerald green, while pristine beaches offer peaceful retreats where the world's largest freshwater lake gently kisses the shore.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site can be accessed by hiking or kayaking. The primitive facilities and remote location may present challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThis site accommodates 6 people and 2 tents. The setup includes benches and a fire ring.
Sites PrivacyThe site is noted for its privacy due to its secluded location, though past campers have removed many natural barriers such as branches, reducing visual privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, consider visiting in early fall when insects are less active. Carry sufficient water or use filtration methods.
Best CampsitesShelter Ridge campsite is praised for its proximity to a sandy beach and shelter from winds.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Shelter Ridge campsite has a 14-day stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people and 2 tents allowed per Shelter Ridge campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle campsite with primitive amenities near North Light Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-May to early October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by contacting the Grand Island Ferry Service directly.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis when not booked in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the date of scheduled arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations may forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Shelter Ridge Campsite can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, beachcombing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Lake Superior provides opportunities for swimming and fishing, although the site does not directly offer fishing amenities.
Hiking
There are over 30 miles of hiking trails on Grand Island, offering access to scenic overlooks, cultural sites, and beaches. Trails are unsurfaced and vary in difficulty.Fishing
Lake Superior hosts fish such as Coho salmon, lake trout, perch, pike, walleye, and rock bass. A valid Michigan fishing license is required.Swimming
Swimming is available near the campsite at Lake Superior. The water is typically cold, with temperatures averaging in the high 60s during summer. The lake bottom varies between sandy and rocky.Biking
Grand Island features trails suitable for mountain biking, with access to scenic areas. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own bikes.Boating
Kayakers can easily access Shelter Ridge via the North Light Creek beach. The beach allows boats to be brought ashore, but motorized personal watercraft are not permitted.Wildlife viewing
The island’s diverse ecosystem allows for sightings of local fauna, including birds and small mammals.Beach activities
The nearby beach allows for sunbathing and beachcombing. The sandy terrain is appealing for leisure activities.Winter Activities
Grand Island features winter ice caves and opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on its trails.Water Sports
Kayaking is the primary water sport supported at the campsite, with visitors encouraged to explore the shoreline.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available, but campers must use dead and downed wood.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos and black flies are abundant. High winds can occur, making kayaking risky if unattended at the shoreline.
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, Munising Police Department, and local ranger station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 – October 10 during peak season.
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out policy is in effect. Campers are responsible for taking all trash and recyclables with them.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near North Light Creek beach, approximately 500 yards from Lake Superior.
Common complaintsSome campers complained about reduced privacy due to past removal of natural barriers.
HostCampground host information is unavailable.
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 the Munising's blinking light. Look for the Grand Island NRA signs. Prices and schedules vary from season to season.
The island is accessible through passenger ferry or private watercraft. Seasonal closures may apply to ferry operations.Nearby places
Munising (0.5 miles to ferry connection), Marquette (43 miles), Manistique (55 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in Munising, including grocery stores, camping supply shops, and outfitters offering kayak and biking rentals.
Camper Reviews
4.6
14 reviews
Shelter Ridge Campsite On Grand Island is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviewers appreciate the secluded and scenic nature of Shelter Ridge Campsite, with proximity to a beautiful beach being a recurring highlight. However, some have noted challenges with privacy due to changes in natural barriers.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the site’s proximity to an amazing sandy beach, the natural shelter provided by the ridge, and the availability of a bear pole, fire pit, and benches. Many...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include abundant mosquitoes and biting flies, damp conditions for firewood, and reduced privacy caused by the removal of branches from trees by past campers.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing bug spray, warm clothing for the lake’s cold water, and sufficient supplies including a water filtration system, as the water source is Lake Superior.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight high insect activity but praise warm lake conditions. Fall reviews note improved bug conditions and quietness, making it a favored time for visits.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The beach is amazing!' – Vicki B, 'Very private spot, quiet, and not far from the water.' – Rick H, 'Bring a bathing suit. Watch out for biting black flies.' – Jacob D.
Based on 14 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Shelter Ridge receives mostly positive ratings, typically 4 or 5 stars. Visitors commend the site’s beach access and natural shelter.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews note accessibility concerns, but the remote and primitive nature may pose challenges for some.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific comments on pet experiences are provided.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025