Little Beaver Lake Campground

For Michiganders, the Upper Peninsula is more than just a destination; it's a cherished landscape brimming with unparalleled natural beauty and a unique sense of tranquility. If you're looking for a camping experience that truly allows you to disconnect and immerse yourself in the wilderness, Little Beaver Lake Campground in Shingleton, MI, offers just that. This isn't a bustling resort with all the bells and whistles; it's a rustic, intimate escape nestled within the majestic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, promising a serene and authentic outdoor adventure for locals who appreciate the quiet grandeur of our state.

Little Beaver Lake Campground is designed for those who value peace and natural immersion. With a limited number of sites, it offers a sense of seclusion often hard to find in more popular areas. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the forest, with the glassy surface of Little Beaver Lake just steps away, inviting you to paddle or fish. The campground serves as a perfect base for exploring the iconic Pictured Rocks coastline, renowned for its stunning sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and miles of scenic trails. It’s a place to unwind, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the wild heart of Michigan.

Little Beaver Lake Campground is strategically located at Shingleton, MI 49884, USA. Situated approximately 20 miles northeast of Munising, it's an integral part of the sprawling Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. While its address is straightforward, reaching the campground involves navigating about 3 miles north of Alger County Road H-58 on Little Beaver Lake Road, which is an unpaved access road that can be narrow, twisting, and hilly. This means single-unit vehicles exceeding 36 feet and vehicle/trailer combined units over 42 feet are generally not recommended due to these road conditions and the small size of the campsites.

Despite its somewhat remote access, this location is precisely what makes it so appealing to Michigan locals seeking a true escape. It ensures a quieter, less crowded environment, allowing for a more profound connection with nature. For those traveling from across Michigan, it's a destination that promises a reward for the journey, placing you directly within reach of the stunning Little Beaver Lake, Beaver Lake, and the vast expanse of Lake Superior via connecting trails. The campground operates seasonally, typically from May 15 through October 15, with water systems and toilets shut down outside of these dates. Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov, as walk-in camping is no longer permitted.

Little Beaver Lake Campground offers a focused set of services designed to provide a comfortable yet rustic camping experience within the wilderness setting.

• Designated Campsites: There are eight individual campsites, each offering a dedicated space for tents or small RVs/trailers. One campsite is wheelchair accessible.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grill Grates: Every site includes a fire ring, perfect for campfires and cooking, complete with a grill grate.
• Tent Pads: Designated tent pads are provided for campers to set up their tents.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for camper use.
• Well Water: Potable well water is accessible via a hand pump, allowing campers to refill water bottles and containers.
• Small Boat Ramp: A small boat ramp is available for launching boats onto Little Beaver Lake.
• Bear Boxes: Park-provided metal boxes for food storage are available for campers without hard-sided vehicles to prevent attracting bears.

Little Beaver Lake Campground is rich in natural features and recreational opportunities that make it a standout choice for Michigan’s outdoor enthusiasts.

• Direct Lake Access: Campsites are located on or very near Little Beaver Lake, offering tranquil water views and easy access for activities.
• Electric Motors Only: To preserve the serene wilderness character of Little Beaver Lake and Beaver Lake (which are within the Beaver Basin Wilderness area), only electric motors are permitted on these lakes. This ensures a peaceful environment for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Little Beaver Nature Trail: The campground features a 1.0-mile (.3 km) loop nature trail, perfect for short, interpretive walks to explore the local flora and fauna.
• Lake Superior Access Trail: A 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail leads directly from the campground to the stunning shores of Lake Superior and connects with the North Country Trail, offering extensive hiking opportunities along the coastline.
• Hiking Opportunities: Beyond the direct trails, the campground provides access to a network of trails within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, ideal for day hikes and longer backcountry excursions.
• Fishing: Little Beaver Lake is a popular spot for fishing, providing opportunities to catch various species in a beautiful setting.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: With only eight sites, the campground offers a distinctly quiet and private experience, allowing campers to truly unwind and enjoy the natural sounds.
• No Cell Phone Reception: For those seeking a complete digital detox, the limited to non-existent cell phone reception at the campground is a key feature, encouraging campers to unplug and immerse themselves in their surroundings.

As a National Park Service campground, Little Beaver Lake Campground does not typically offer "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense. Its value is inherent in its status as a pristine natural area managed for public enjoyment and conservation. However, holders of the America the Beautiful Access Pass (available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities) may receive a 50% discount on camping fees. This program, available nationwide, helps make our beautiful public lands more accessible. The true "promotion" at Little Beaver Lake Campground is the unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a priceless natural treasure that few other locations can match. The limited number of sites and the demand for this serene experience mean that early reservations are highly recommended, often as soon as they become available.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Little Beaver Lake Campground, including reservations and specific regulations, it is best to consult official sources.

Address: Shingleton, MI 49884, USA

Phone Number: For campground inquiries, please call Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore at 906-387-3700. Reservations are made online through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777 (International callers: 1-518-885-3635).

It is always advisable for campers to check the official Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore website on NPS.gov and Recreation.gov before planning their trip, as conditions, regulations, and availability can change. This will also provide details on "Leave No Trace" principles, food storage requirements (due to bears), and other essential information for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Little Beaver Lake Campground is an ideal destination for Michigan locals, perfectly aligning with the spirit of outdoor adventure that defines our state. For us, the allure of a rustic campground like this isn't about luxury, but about authenticity. We appreciate the challenge of a narrow, twisting road leading to a secluded haven, knowing that the journey itself enhances the sense of escape. The prohibition of gas motors on Little Beaver Lake, favoring electric motors and paddling, is a key draw for Michiganders who value quiet contemplation and minimal impact on our precious waterways. This feature ensures a peaceful experience for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the sounds of nature without the disturbance of engines.

Furthermore, the campground's direct access to the Little Beaver Nature Trail and the 1.5-mile trail leading to Lake Superior and the North Country Trail offers unparalleled hiking opportunities right from your campsite. This provides a deep connection to the vast and varied landscapes of the Pictured Rocks. For families, the thought of exploring these trails and discovering the pristine beaches of Lake Superior is a quintessential Michigan experience. The clean vault toilets and available well water, though rustic, are familiar comforts for experienced local campers. While there’s no cell service, for many Michiganders, this is a welcomed feature – a chance to truly unplug, unwind, and soak in the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula, creating cherished memories that only a Pure Michigan camping trip can provide. It's a place where the wild beauty of our home state truly shines, perfectly suited for those who seek genuine outdoor immersion.