Little Beaver Campground
4.2198 reviewsLittle Beaver 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
All campsites are available only via reservation at a daily rate of $25. Senior Pass and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Michigan's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Little Beaver Campground beckons those seeking an authentic escape from the modern world. This intimate retreat features just 8 secluded sites nestled along the tranquil shores of Little Beaver Lake, where morning mist dances across the water and loons call in the distance. Reached by a winding, narrow dirt road that filters out larger RVs, this hidden gem rewards adventurous tent campers and small trailer enthusiasts with an unspoiled natural sanctuary. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with the essentials – a fire ring for evening gatherings, level tent pad, sturdy picnic table, and access to clean vault toilets and fresh well water – everything you need for a memorable backcountry experience without sacrificing basic comforts.
Little Beaver Campground offers primitive camping, with options for tents and small RVs or trailers. The sites are rustic and do not accommodate large trailers.
Historical SignificanceLittle Beaver Campground sits within the cherished boundaries of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a landscape that has captivated humans for millennia. This protected area preserves not only stunning natural beauty but also the stories of Native American peoples who first called these shores home, followed by generations of loggers, miners, and mariners who shaped the region's rich cultural tapestry. Today, the campground serves as a gateway to understanding both the environmental treasures and human heritage that make this corner of Michigan's Upper Peninsula so extraordinary.
Weather and SeasonsLittle Beaver's character transforms dramatically with each passing season, offering visitors distinctly different experiences throughout the year. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for swimming and hiking, though wise campers pack rain gear for the occasional afternoon shower that keeps the forest lush and green. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwoods burst into a spectacular display of crimson and gold, creating ideal conditions for photography and peaceful reflection. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, challenging visitors with freezing temperatures but rewarding the hardy with pristine cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. Spring emerges with wildflowers and migrating birds, offering perhaps the most comfortable camping conditions as nature awakens from its winter slumber.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains unmapped for this secluded location, Little Beaver Campground rests comfortably within the gently rolling terrain characteristic of Michigan's northern forests, providing level camping spots without challenging climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryLittle Beaver Lake serves as the campground's sparkling centerpiece, its calm waters reflecting towering pines and hardwoods that create a natural amphitheater of green. From your campsite, watch beavers glide silently across the water at dusk, while eagles soar overhead scanning for fish. The surrounding wilderness reveals itself through a network of trails that wind through cathedral-like forests, past hidden waterfalls, and along ridges offering glimpses of Lake Superior's endless blue horizon. This untouched landscape, where ancient trees lean over crystalline waters and wildlife moves freely through the understory, provides the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with nature's rhythms.
Geological RegionLittle Beaver Campground occupies a fascinating geological wonderland within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where 500-million-year-old Cambrian sandstone tells the story of ancient seas and shifting continents. This dramatic landscape showcases nature's artistry through towering multicolored cliffs that rise 200 feet above Lake Superior, sculpted by wind and waves into caves, arches, and formations that defy imagination. Beyond the famous cliffs, the region encompasses pristine beaches where agate hunters search for treasures, thundering waterfalls that plunge over sandstone ledges, massive sand dunes that shift with the winds, and a chain of pristine inland lakes cradled by dense northern forests. Each of these features contributes to an ecosystem of remarkable diversity and beauty that has earned national protection.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne of the eight campsites is wheelchair accessible. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are also available.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as small and tight, with limited maneuvering space. The maximum trailer length is recommended at 25 feet for easier access.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites have minimal privacy due to their proximity to one another. Vegetation between sites provides some screening, but several reviews note that the closeness can lead to noise disturbances.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent camping is preferred due to limited space for campers and trailers. Avoid larger rigs, as most reviews highlight difficulties maneuvering within the sites.
Best CampsitesSite #2 is often praised for its proximity to water and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 11:00 AM.
Check-out
By 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Stay is limited to 14 nights within the Lakeshore.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 individuals.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of 8 small sites with limited privacy. One site is wheelchair accessible.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to October 15 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed through Recreation.gov platform.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservation-only campground.
Cancellation Policy$10 fee for cancellations or changes within the cut-off window. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Reservation changes are allowed prior to the cut-off.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Little Beaver Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and paddling. The campground serves as a starting point for several trails, including the Little Beaver Nature Trail and a 1.5-mile trail to Lake Superior. Kayaking and wildlife viewing are also popular activities.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity, with trails like the 1-mile Little Beaver Nature Trail and connections to the North Country Trail. Many visitors recommend the hike to Lake Superior and Twelve Mile Beach.Fishing
Fishing is permitted on Little Beaver Lake but is limited to electric motor boats. Several reviews mention a lack of fish in the lake.Boating
A small boat ramp is available for non-motorized and electric motor boats. The serene setting makes boating a favored activity.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife spotting is common, with visitors frequently noting beavers and swans in the lake. Chipmunks are also prevalent in the area.Winter Activities
Winter access to the campground is highly restricted. Roads are unplowed, and access requires snowmobiles or ATVs, as noted in user reviews.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the proximity of Little Beaver Lake and Beaver Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings. No beach fires allowed.
- Quiet hours are 8 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and chipmunks. Proper food storage is essential.
Active alertsRoad conditions can vary; heavy snow may restrict access during winter.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 14 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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 (20 miles away). Emergency police and ranger services available within the National Lakeshore.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 15 (reservable period).
Trash and recyclingVisitors must adhere to bear-safe food storage rules, and trash facilities are provided. There is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLittle Beaver Lake is adjacent to the campground, with a boat ramp for electric motor boats.
Common complaintsUser reviews cite issues with campsite size, overgrown vegetation, difficulty accessing sites, and foul odors from vault toilets.
HostNo onsite host is available; ranger presence is limited.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated 3 miles north of Alger County Road H-58 and 20 miles northeast of Munising on Little Beaver Lake.
Access via a narrow, twisting, hilly dirt road. One-way road conditions make it challenging for trailers. Reviews confirm the road is often rough, with potholes and steep sections.Nearby places
Munising (20 miles, approximately 35-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Munising offers grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies. Restaurants like The Bear Trap are nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.2
98 reviews
Little Beaver Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Little Beaver Campground are mixed, with positive highlights emphasizing its natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and convenient access to trails and lakes. Negative reviews often cite the tightness of campsites, poor maintenance of vault toilets, and challenges accessing the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 98 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors often praise the campground's quiet and scenic location, proximity to hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing. Comments include: 'Beautiful, quiet location,'...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the strong odor from vault toilets, limited campsite sizes, and the difficulty of navigating the narrow access road. Quotes like 'The worst-smelling vault toilet I have ever...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring plenty of water as the potable water supply is limited. 2. Avoid bringing large RVs or trailers due to the narrow access road and small campsite sizes. 3. Take advantage of the trail access...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer and early fall receive the most positive reviews, with visitors appreciating the warm weather and opportunities for hiking and kayaking. Winter access is highly restricted, and visitors have...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Lovely small campground nestled next to a small picturesque lake.' 2. 'No cell service, no noisy campground neighbors! It was amazing!' 3. 'Sites are very close to each other. Bathrooms are clean...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Several users mention specific sites like #2 and #4 as desirable for their proximity to the lake. Site #8 is wheelchair accessible. Some campers noted that site dimensions listed online were...
Based on 98 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One wheelchair-accessible site is available, and the vault toilets and water pump are also accessible. However, the narrow, hilly road may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 98 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the campground, which disappointed some visitors.
Based on 98 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025