The Porkies Union Bay

For Michigan locals dreaming of a breathtaking escape into pristine wilderness with the comforts of a modern campground, The Porkies Union Bay Campground offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled along the captivating shores of Lake Superior, this campground is a jewel within the magnificent Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. It's a place where you can wake up to the sound of waves, witness both sunrise and sunset over the water, and have immediate access to a vast natural playground teeming with waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and miles of hiking trails. The Porkies Union Bay isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to some of Michigan's most spectacular natural beauty.

As Michiganders, we are incredibly fortunate to have access to such incredible state parks, and the "Porkies" (as it's affectionately known) is truly a crown jewel. The Union Bay Campground provides a fantastic base for exploring this expansive "coastal forest area plus beach," making it perfect for families, adventurers, and those simply seeking tranquility. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of The Porkies Union Bay Campground, detailing its stunning location, accessibility, the range of services offered, its unique features, and why it stands out as an ideal camping destination for residents across our great state. Prepare to be inspired for your next Upper Peninsula adventure!

The Porkies Union Bay Campground is strategically located on M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA. This address places it directly within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan's largest state park, in the western Upper Peninsula. Its position along the shoreline of Union Bay offers immediate and stunning views of Lake Superior, making it a highly sought-after destination for campers who appreciate lakeside settings.

Accessibility to The Porkies Union Bay is generally straightforward, primarily via M-107, which runs through the park. The campground is a "drive-in campground," meaning you can bring your vehicles, RVs, and trailers directly to your site. It is described as being "Big Rig Friendly," accommodating a wide range of RVs and trailers, from 20 to 60 feet. While cell service can be spotty in some parts of the park, access to the campground itself is well-established. The park's Visitor Center, located near the junction of South Boundary Road and M-107, is a crucial stop for park information, maps, and checking in for various accommodations. For those arriving specifically at Union Bay Campground, check-in is typically handled directly at the campground office on M-107. While the campground offers direct access to the Lake Superior shoreline, accessing specific hiking trails or major scenic overlooks like Lake of the Clouds generally requires a short drive from the campground, as highlighted by some reviewers. Despite this, the central location within the park makes it an excellent base for exploring all the "Porkies" has to offer.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground offers a variety of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience within a natural setting, catering to both traditional campers and those staying in specific lodging types.

• Campsites: The campground features 120 sites, all equipped with electric hookups (either 20- or 30-amp service), and some even have 50-amp service. Sites are suitable for both tents and RVs. Each site generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers: A centrally located modern toilet and shower building provides clean facilities with warm showers, a significant comfort for campers. There are also vault toilets available.

• Potable Water: Potable (drinkable) water is available within the campground, often at the park's sanitation station, where campers can fill their water tanks.

• Sanitation Dump Station: The park's sanitation station is conveniently located at Union Bay Modern Campground, offering two lanes for waste disposal.

• Laundry Facility: A self-pay laundry facility is available, which is a valuable amenity for longer stays.

• Camp Store/Concession: The Porcupine Mountain Outpost, located at the entrance of the campground, sells firewood, ice, gifts, and refreshments. It also offers bicycle, canoe, and kayak rentals.

• Playground: An accessible playground was installed in May 2021, providing a dedicated space for children to play.

• Yurts: While not at the main modern campground, the park also offers unique yurt accommodations (e.g., East yurt), which are rustic, typically without power or running water inside, but are often close to modern campground facilities for shared use.

• Fishing Pier: There is a fishing pier located at the boating access site adjacent to the campground.

• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available adjacent to Union Bay Campground, providing easy access to Lake Superior for boating and fishing.

• Michigan Recreation Passport: A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into the state park, in addition to campsite fees. This pass provides access to all Michigan State Parks and recreation areas.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground, and its setting within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, offers numerous features and highlights that make it an unforgettable destination for Michigan locals:

• Direct Lake Superior Frontage: Many campsites are located "just over the bank offering a great view" of Lake Superior, allowing campers to "see the sun rise AND set over the water" and "listen to the waves all night." This direct proximity to the largest freshwater lake in the world is a major draw.

• Access to Vast Wilderness: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the 60,000-acre Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, home to a 35,000-acre old-growth forest, "roaring waterfalls," and "90-plus miles of hiking trails." This allows for endless outdoor adventures, from short walks to challenging backcountry treks.

• Yurt and Modern Camping Options: The park offers a range of camping experiences, from the more rustic "East yurt" (without power or running water inside but close to modern facilities) to fully electric RV sites, catering to different preferences and comfort levels.

• Abundant Natural Beauty: Reviewers consistently mention "too many waterfalls and other natural beauty to see in one week." Iconic sites like Lake of the Clouds are just a short drive away, offering "amazing views." The diverse landscape includes coastal forests, beaches, and stunning rock formations.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The park is home to a variety of "wild life to view," providing opportunities for nature observation and photography.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers frequently praise the "clean bathrooms and showers" and generally well-maintained grounds, ensuring a pleasant stay despite the natural setting.

• Recreational Rentals: The nearby Porcupine Mountain Outpost provides convenient rentals for bicycles, canoes, and kayaks, making it easy for visitors to explore the lake and trails without bringing their own equipment.

• Year-Round Activities: While the main campground operates seasonally, the park itself offers year-round opportunities, including winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with some yurts remaining open.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a new playground and accessible features, the campground is designed to welcome families, making it an excellent choice for a multi-generational outdoor adventure.

As a Michigan State Park campground, The Porkies Union Bay generally operates under a standardized fee structure rather than traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The primary "promotion" is the incredible value and access it provides to one of Michigan's most spectacular natural areas. To camp here, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry, which is an annual pass offering access to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas. This passport provides significant value for frequent park visitors across the state.

Campsite fees vary based on the type of site (e.g., electric, rustic) and time of year, with rates typically increasing slightly for Friday and Saturday nights. While specific daily rates for Union Bay were not explicitly provided in the core data, state park campgrounds generally offer competitive pricing for their amenities and location. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, available discounts (such as those for seniors or veterans via specific Michigan DNR passes), and any potential package deals (though rare for state parks), Michigan locals should consult the official Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website at MiDNRReservations.com or contact the park directly. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (May through October), as this popular campground tends to fill up quickly.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about The Porkies Union Bay Campground and the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA (specifically, Union Bay Campground check-in is at 36714 M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953)

• Park Headquarters Phone: (906) 885-5209 (This is the primary contact for the park, which oversees the campground)

• Michigan DNR Reservations: 1-800-447-2757 (1-800-44-PARKS) or visit MiDNRReservations.com

Calling the park headquarters is advisable for specific questions about current conditions, trail status, or inquiries beyond basic reservations. For booking campsites, using the MiDNRReservations.com website is the most efficient method.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground is exceptionally suitable for Michigan locals because it offers an immersive and accessible wilderness experience right in our own backyard. For those who cherish our state's natural beauty, the campground's direct Lake Superior frontage provides unparalleled views and the soothing sounds of waves, creating an instant connection to the majestic Great Lakes. Its location within the vast Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park means endless opportunities for hiking, waterfall chasing, wildlife viewing, and more, all within a short drive. The availability of modern amenities like clean restrooms, hot showers, and electric sites ensures a comfortable stay for families and RVers, while unique options like yurts cater to those seeking a slightly more rustic adventure. It's an ideal base for exploring Michigan's iconic Upper Peninsula, offering a perfect blend of convenience and wild beauty that makes it a must-visit destination for any Michigan resident seeking an unforgettable outdoor retreat.