Preservation Point Campsite

For Michigan residents seeking an unparalleled blend of seclusion, natural beauty, and a truly off-grid camping experience, Preservation Point Campsite on Grand Island offers an extraordinary opportunity. Tucked away within the majestic Hiawatha National Forest, just off the coast of Munising, this campsite isn't just a place to sleep; it's a gateway to an unforgettable wilderness adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, exploring pristine trails, and ending your day with a private, breathtaking sunset over Lake Superior. Preservation Point Campsite provides all this and more, perfect for those ready to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in Michigan's captivating Upper Peninsula.

Preservation Point Campsite embodies the essence of primitive, backcountry camping within Michigan's remarkable natural landscape. It's renowned for its deep tranquility and the sense of having a truly private piece of wilderness to yourself. The campsite itself is typically spacious, offering ample room for multiple tents, often shaded by the surrounding forest canopy. Each site is thoughtfully equipped with essential rustic amenities, including a fire ring for cozy campfires, benches for comfortable seating, a pit toilet for convenience, and crucially, a bear pole or food storage locker for safe food storage in an area known for wildlife. This attention to detail ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for campers committed to respecting the natural environment. What truly sets Preservation Point apart, however, is its unique feature: a short, private walk from the campsite leads to a stunning, exclusive viewpoint. This hidden gem offers campers their very own "private view" of the surrounding landscape, complete with benches, making it an ideal spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. This combination of rugged simplicity and breathtaking natural spectacle makes Preservation Point Campsite a highly sought-after destination for Michigan adventurers.

Preservation Point Campsite is uniquely situated on Grand Island, located approximately one-half mile from the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. Its address is W Rd, Munising, MI 49862, USA. This distinct location means that access to Preservation Point Campsite is not by car. Instead, visitors must reach Grand Island by either a passenger ferry service or private watercraft. The Grand Island Ferry Service typically operates during the warmer months, departing from Grand Island Landing on the mainland, located on M-28 west of Munising. It's crucial to check ferry schedules and costs in advance as they vary by season. Once on the island, Preservation Point Campsite is approximately 9 miles from Williams Landing, where the ferry arrives and the visitor information center is located. This requires either a hike or bike ride along the island's trail system. While the campsite itself is not accessible by kayakers directly at the site, kayakers can reach the island and then hike to the site. This multi-modal access adds to the adventurous spirit of visiting Preservation Point, ensuring a truly immersive wilderness experience. The isolation of the island and the hike-in nature of the campsite contribute significantly to the quiet, secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of mainland life. Its proximity to Munising, however, means that essential supplies and services are readily available on the mainland before embarking on your island adventure.

Services Offered:

• Shaded campsite with ample room, suitable for at least two tents.
• Equipped with a fire ring for campfires.
• Two benches provided at the campsite.
• A pit toilet for basic sanitation.
• Bear pole or food storage locker for secure food storage.
• Drinking water is generally not available directly at the campsite; campers must bring their own water or be prepared to filter/treat surface water from sources like Gull Point Creek (which may involve a climb). Potable water is typically available at central locations on the island like Williams Landing or Juniper Flats.

Features / Highlights:

• Great, shaded campsite offering a comfortable and private setting.
• Flat spot suitable for two tents, ensuring easy setup.
• Private "view" accessible only through the campsite, providing a breathtaking and exclusive outlook.
• Two benches at the private viewpoint, ideal for enjoying sunsets and scenic vistas.
• Proximity to Gull Point Creek for water collection (requiring purification).
• No cell reception, fostering a complete disconnect from digital distractions.
• Part of the Hiawatha National Forest and Grand Island National Recreation Area, ensuring a pristine natural environment.
• Opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing on Grand Island.
• Historic exploration opportunities with old buildings and ancient mining pits on the island.
• Ideal for watching stunning sunsets over Lake Superior.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As part of the Hiawatha National Forest and Grand Island National Recreation Area, camping at Preservation Point Campsite typically requires reservations and a nightly fee. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (Memorial Day to Columbus Day), and can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling the Hiawatha National Forest office. While individual "promotions" like discounts are not commonly offered for specific campsites, Michigan residents can benefit from the Michigan Recreation Passport. This annual pass, purchased when renewing vehicle registration, provides access to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas, which can include certain federal lands under cooperative agreements, though specific Grand Island fees might apply in addition to or instead of a state pass. It's crucial to check the most current fee schedules and reservation policies on Recreation.gov or the USDA Forest Service website for the Hiawatha National Forest. Given the campsite's popularity and unique features, booking well in advance is essential to secure your desired dates for this exceptional Michigan adventure.

Contact Information:

Address: W Rd, Munising, MI 49862, USA

For inquiries, it's best to contact the Hiawatha National Forest office or the Grand Island Ferry Service:

Hiawatha National Forest General Inquiries (Munising Ranger District):

Phone: (906) 387-2512 (this number is often listed as a general contact for Grand Island campsites)

Grand Island Ferry Service (for transportation to the island):

Phone: (906) 387-2600

Website: http://www.grandislandup.com/

It's important to verify contact details and operational hours, especially for the ferry service, before planning your trip.

Conclusion: Why Preservation Point Campsite is Suitable for Locals

For Michigan residents, Preservation Point Campsite on Grand Island offers a truly distinctive and deeply rewarding camping experience that stands apart from typical mainland campgrounds. It’s an ideal destination for those who have explored many of Michigan's accessible parks and are now seeking a deeper dive into the state's wild, untamed beauty. The necessity of taking a ferry or private boat to reach the island immediately sets it apart, transforming a simple camping trip into an adventurous expedition. This unique accessibility inherently curates a quieter, more dedicated type of camper, ensuring a peaceful environment where you can truly disconnect from the demands of everyday life.

The total lack of cell reception is a significant draw for Michiganders seeking a genuine digital detox, allowing for an uninterrupted connection with nature and companions. The spacious, shaded sites provide comfortable lodging, while the presence of a bear pole ensures safety for food storage – a critical consideration in the UP's wilderness. However, the absolute highlight and primary reason for its suitability for locals is the private viewpoint. This exclusive feature, offering breathtaking sunsets over Lake Superior, creates an intimate and unforgettable moment that few other campsites can provide. It's a special reward for making the effort to reach this secluded spot. While the need to carry in water or filter from natural sources might be a slight inconvenience for some, it’s part of the authentic backcountry experience that many Michigan outdoors enthusiasts crave. Preservation Point isn't just a campsite; it's a destination that promises profound tranquility, unparalleled natural beauty, and a cherished opportunity to create lasting memories in one of Michigan's most spectacular and secluded settings. It's truly a bucket-list experience for any Michigan local passionate about the outdoors.