Hurricane River Campground
4.49185 reviewsPictured Rocks National Lakeshore Hurricane River Campground (Upper & Lower Sections)
Hurricane River Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
A flat-rate fee of $25 per night applies to all campsites. Senior Pass and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount. The pass number must be entered when making reservations.
About this campground
Nestled within the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Hurricane River Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience across two distinct camping loops. The Upper Loop provides 10 secluded sites for those seeking solitude, while the Lower Loop's 12 sites bring you closer to the rhythmic sounds of Lake Superior. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including tent pads, picnic tables, vault toilets, and fire rings—everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure without sacrificing the rustic charm that draws campers to Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Hurricane River Campground caters primarily to tent and small RV/trailer campers, with a focus on rustic, nature-centric accommodations. It consists of two loops: Upper (10 sites) and Lower (12 sites), both offering drive-in access.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Hurricane River Campground, your gateway to the iconic Au Sable Light Station trail. This storied landscape holds secrets of Great Lakes maritime heritage, with haunting shipwreck remains scattered along the shore serving as silent reminders of Superior's awesome power. As part of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you're camping in a place where indigenous peoples once traveled, where lighthouse keepers once stood vigil, and where the forces of nature and human determination have intersected for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of nature at Hurricane River, where true wilderness camping means disconnecting from the digital world—no cell service reaches this pristine corner of the lakeshore. Spring and summer bring clouds of mosquitoes that remind you this is their home too, so come prepared. As autumn arrives, the nights turn crisp with temperatures dipping into the 30s and 40s, perfect for cozying up around the campfire. The campground embraces winter's rest, closing when snow blankets the landscape, allowing nature to reclaim its peaceful solitude.
ElevationSet on the gentle, flat terrain that characterizes this stretch of Lake Superior's shoreline, Hurricane River Campground offers easy walking and accessible camping without challenging elevation changes. This level landscape makes it perfect for families and campers of all abilities, while still providing spectacular views and easy access to the dramatic cliffs and beaches that make Pictured Rocks famous.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the whisper of wind through a canopy of deciduous trees and the distant call of Superior's waves at Hurricane River Campground. Forest trails beckon from your tent flap, leading to hidden waterfalls that cascade through ancient rock formations and out to the majestic Au Sable Lighthouse standing sentinel on the shore. The campground serves as your basecamp for exploring a landscape where towering hardwoods meet the endless blue horizon of the world's largest freshwater lake, creating a natural amphitheater of breathtaking beauty.
Geological RegionDiscover camping at the intersection of ancient forces at Hurricane River, where Michigan's Upper Peninsula meets the mighty Lake Superior. Here, 500-million-year-old sandstone cliffs rise from crystal-clear waters, their faces painted by iron and minerals into the famous 'pictures' that give this lakeshore its name. Wind-sculpted sand dunes shift and change with the seasons, while dense forests cling to the rugged shoreline, creating a geological wonderland that tells the story of ice ages, vast inland seas, and the relentless power of the greatest of the Great Lakes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes designated accessible sites, with vault toilets and tent pads designed to improve accessibility. However, some users highlighted vault toilets' cleanliness as a concern.
Sites SizeCampsites are relatively spacious, accommodating tent campers as well as small RVs and trailers up to 36 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyOverall, sites are well-spaced and screened by trees, offering a sense of seclusion. However, some sites in the Lower Loop are more open and subject to traffic from trail visitors.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLower loop offers closer proximity to Lake Superior. Site #6 and #12 Lower are praised for privacy and beach access.
Best CampsitesSite #1 Upper highlighted for seclusion; Site #11 Lower praised for proximity to the beach and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo distinct loops (Upper & Lower). Sites are well-separated by trees for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to October 15 annually for reservations. Closed during other months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific walk-up sites available; all reservations are required to be booked in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 service fee applies for reservation changes or cancellations. Cancellation within one day of check-in forfeits the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hurricane River Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, with highlights including hiking trails, beach access, and wildlife viewing. The campground is a trailhead for the Au Sable Light Station, and the nearby Lake Superior shoreline offers additional opportunities for exploration.
Hiking
The campground serves as a trailhead for the Au Sable Light Station, featuring a 1.6-mile hike (one way) with access to shipwreck remains and views of Lake Superior. The North Country Trail runs through the area, connecting to other scenic hiking routes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with visitors reporting seeing pileated woodpeckers and observing the migration of monarch butterflies.Beach activities
The nearby Lake Superior shoreline provides opportunities for beachcombing, sunset watching, and relaxing by the water.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter season, so no winter-specific activities are available.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking are accessible in the broader Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area but are not specific to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings. Purchase wood locally; collection and cutting prohibited.
- Quiet hours enforced from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent reports of mosquitoes, and occasional wildlife like bears. Weather changes quickly near Lake Superior.
Active alertsWater turned off during off-season. Vault toilets locked in winter months. Winter road closures may affect access.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.4 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 and supplies can be accessed in Grand Marais (approximately 20 minutes away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 15 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling containers are conveniently located throughout the campground, and trash is picked up daily. However, some reviews mentioned issues like vault toilets being overused by hikers.
Proximity to water featuresLower loop is adjacent to Lake Superior with direct access. Hurricane River connects to Lake Superior.
Common complaintsComplaints include vault toilets being unclean or locked during off-seasons, lack of camp host presence, and heavy mosquito presence during summer.
HostCampground hosts are reported as friendly and approachable but often absent. Some complaints noted.
Campground Map
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Hurricane River Campground (Upper & Lower Sections)
Driving directionsAccess this campground from Alger County Road H-58, which runs parallel to the park. Hurricane River Campground is located 12 miles west of Grand Marais, Michigan. The campground is divided into two sections (Upper Hurricane River and Lower Hurricane River). Follow signs for Hurricane River Campground along County Highway H-58. Many roads in the area may be closed in winter due to snow.
Access is via paved County Highway H-58. Winter closures due to snow may affect accessibility. Roads are well-maintained during other seasons.Nearby places
Grand Marais (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes). Munising (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Grand Marais is the closest town for supplies like groceries, camping equipment, and fuel, located 12 miles away from the campground. Firewood is not sold at the campground and must be purchased locally.
Camper Reviews
4.5
185 reviews
Hurricane River Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight Hurricane River Campground as a serene, rustic retreat with proximity to Lake Superior and the Au Sable Light Station. Many users praised the quiet environment and access to hiking trails, while complaints primarily focused on vault toilet conditions and mosquitoes.
Review Summaries
Based on 185 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's peaceful setting, spacious sites, proximity to Lake Superior, and access to hiking trails like the one leading to Au Sable Light Station. Many guests loved...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of firewood sales on-site, the poor condition of vault toilets, and high mosquito activity during summer. Some reviewers also noted lack of privacy for certain...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing ample firewood and mosquito repellent, as well as being prepared for rustic conditions. Early reservations are suggested due to high demand, and off-season visits are...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention beautiful weather but issues with mosquitoes and busy vault toilets due to shared use with trail visitors. Fall reviews highlight the solitude and stunning foliage,...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Falling asleep to the crashing waves of Lake Superior was amazing.' 2. 'The hike to Au Sable Lighthouse was a highlight, with shipwrecks to explore along the way.' 3. 'Vault toilets need better...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 (Lower Loop): Proximity to the parking lot results in high traffic and reduced privacy. Site #6 (Lower Loop): Noted for heavy use of nearby pit toilets. Site #10 (Lower Loop): Across from...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features include designated sites, vault toilets, and tent pads. However, cleanliness and heavy use of vault toilets by trail visitors were noted as drawbacks for guests with accessibility...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Most pet owners were happy with the allowance of pets, though some noted restrictions on nearby trails.
Based on 185 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025