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Porcupine Mountains Wilderness/Union Bay
Overview
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, affectionately known as the Porkies, offers one of the most rugged and authentic camping experiences in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The Union Bay Campground serves as the park’s primary hub for RV travelers, providing a front-row seat to the majesty of Lake Superior. This destination is defined by its 60,000 acres of old-growth forest and dramatic geological features, offering a sense of isolation that is hard to find elsewhere in the Midwest.
Location & Surroundings
Located near Ontonagon, MI, Union Bay is situated on the northeastern edge of the park directly along the Lake Superior shoreline. The surrounding landscape is a mix of high ridges and dense timberland. Being positioned on the coast means campers are treated to expansive water views and some of the most vibrant northern sunsets imaginable. The park’s location makes it a perfect basecamp for exploring the vast wilderness while remaining accessible to the main park road.
Amenities & Park Features
Union Bay is a modern campground that accommodates RVs with 30-amp electrical service at most sites. The park provides essential facilities including modern restrooms and hot showers, which are a welcome comfort after a long day of hiking. Travelers will also find a reliable sanitation station and potable water access. Each site is thoughtfully laid out with a fire ring and picnic table, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the quiet atmosphere of the North Woods.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The crown jewel of the area is the Lake of the Clouds overlook, a short drive from the campground that offers breathtaking views of the valley below. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 90 miles of trails, including the famous Escarpment Trail. On the western end of the park, the Presque Isle River waterfalls provide a stunning display of natural power. Fishing, agate hunting along the shore, and photography are among the most popular activities for those staying at Union Bay.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for RVers who prioritize scenic beauty and outdoor adventure over resort-style amenities. It is a haven for hikers, photographers, and those looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Because it offers electric hookups in a wilderness setting, it is perfect for nature-loving travelers who want to experience the rugged beauty of the Upper Peninsula without sacrificing basic modern comforts.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Missy McClintock
Roads well maintained and staff was friendly. Camped out one night on the Big Carp Trail and it was easy to obtain a permit. Lake of the Clouds was worth a visit and easy to access with a ramp and couple steps.
Michelle Lynn
One of the most beautiful state parks I’ve ever been to in my home state of Michigan! The lady at the visitor center was so friendly and so knowledgeable, she guided us to areas that would have the best view for us , as we weren’t walking any of the trails. We spent the entire day seeing Lake of the Clouds, several waterfalls and enjoying the beauty of all the color in the state park ! We were able to stop multiple times and walk along Lake Superior and find some stones as well ! It was truly an amazing day spent here !
Keith Bradford
Our trip to the Porkies was planned for September 21st, 2025, for a 5-day 31 MI backpacking loop. We made Backcountry camping site reservations online ($20 per night for a site for up to 6), which took a little getting used to, but was pretty easy. Check in on a Sunday morning at the visitor center was very a good experience, a beautiful Visitor Center and a smooth process to turn a reservations into permits. We started out along m107 at the Government Peak Trailhead and walked the Escarpment Trail, a little of the Lake Superior Trail, Little Carp, river Trail, North Mirror Lake Trail, and the Government Peak trail. towards Lake of the clouds. There were several beautiful overlooks of the Lake of the clouds area where we could see the tips of the trees starting to change color and it was beautiful. The trails we chose took us along rivers with waterfalls, Lake superior, Lake of the clouds, and Mirror Lake Trails were well marked and easy to follow. There are plenty of steep up and downs, but we found those we're tiring but not that. There are large sections of Muddy marshy area so be ready, and River Crossings, so be ready to get your feet wet. Based on what we saw, the park is well kept. There are many more trails to explore, and the area around Lake Superior is quite beautiful. I highly recommended. Actually, I probably shouldn't be telling you all of this! If the park becomes more popular, reservations may be harder to get:-) do check out the website, because they do have cabins near the road and near the lake available for rent as well as cabins and Yurts in the backcountry. There are several places for swimming access to Lake Superior. Good luck and enjoy.
Arthur Harder
Incredible hiking with Lake of the Clouds being the obvious highlight, I recommend parking at the small government peak parking “lot” by the main park entrance and doing the 2ish miles (mostly uphill) to the peak, best views/pics from that side, over driving to the touristy photo spot. Highly recommend going here in general, regardless of whatever trail you choose, it’s a gorgeous area, Pure Michigan!!
B A
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is definitely one of the best state parks I have visited in the United States. The section I visited contained four different waterfalls that were all amazing sights to see. The suspension bridge over the most northern waterfall is wonderful. The river opens up to Lake Superior and makes for beautiful views and amazing hikes.
