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Hiawatha/Little Bay de Noc Rec Area
Overview
The Little Bay de Noc Recreation Area offers a serene escape within the vast expanse of the Hiawatha National Forest. Situated on the northern shores of Lake Michigan, this destination provides a classic Upper Peninsula experience where deep woodlands meet the rhythmic sounds of the waterfront. It serves as a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of Michigan’s natural landscapes and the simplicity of forest service camping.
Location & Surroundings
Located just south of Rapid River, MI, the area is defined by its proximity to the bay’s protected waters. The geography features a mix of hardwood forests and cedar swamps, providing a lush backdrop for the shoreline campsites. Visitors can enjoy views across the water while being sheltered by a mature forest canopy that offers plenty of shade and privacy between most sites, creating an immersive wilderness atmosphere.
Amenities & Park Features
This recreation area focuses on providing high-quality essential services for a comfortable stay. The park features well-maintained boat launches designed for easy access to some of the best fishing in the region. Guests have access to drinking water and vault toilets, and many sites are spacious enough to accommodate mid-sized RVs and trailers. While more rustic than a private resort, the level of maintenance ensures a clean and reliable environment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Anglers flock here for the world-class walleye fishing, which is the primary draw for many visitors. Beyond the water, the Peninsula Point Lighthouse is a short drive away, offering historic views and a famous spot for viewing migrating monarch butterflies. Hikers can explore various trails that wind through the national forest, providing ample opportunities for bird watching and spotting local wildlife like white-tailed deer and bald eagles.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for travelers who prefer rustic camping and solitude over modern luxury. It is a perfect fit for dedicated anglers who want quick water access and families who enjoy traditional outdoor activities like campfire cooking and stargazing. If you are looking for a basecamp to explore the central Upper Peninsula without the crowds of commercial parks, this forest setting offers an authentic experience.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Josh Rizzo
Beautiful views right on the water on the maywood loop. Toilets were cleaned and restocked with TP daily. No showers on premises.
Northern “uptrail71” Outdoors
Nice shaded campground with spacious sites. The pit toilet bathrooms were clean. They have a running water faucet near our campsite. Very small beach areas, but it was a nice place to watch the sunset. Some campsites are a little further to the water, but they have walkways to it.
Monkie Gunden
Nice campground on the water. Variety of open and wooded sites. Some with better access to the lake than others.
kelsey lehman
Very nice, remote campground. Did get super loud at night from a factory or something and the train but still enjoyable. Wish there was more of beach for us to take the dogs to but still enjoyed our stay.
Tonya Anderson
We just stayed here the 1-4 it was amazing. Super clean bathrooms, the camp sights are huge. It's was not a far drive from anything we wanted to go do. The beach was nice although the water wasn't the cleanest at the beach, there are many beaches close by.
Jamie Swears
This campground is located in a beautiful setting. There are new pit toilets that are the cleanest I have ever seen, and maintained daily. The campsites are large, private, and spaced out. There is a large grassy area by the beach that is mowed regularly. The water is sandy bottom, and very nice to swim in. The camp host was also very friendly! Our family had an amazing time during our stay!
Kelly Johnson
This was a beautiful stop over. Paul and Heather were very welcoming and helpful. The bathrooms were very clean. The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset. No water fill or dump station. Remember, this is a rustic campground, so be sure to fill the water before you arrive.
Bob Conner
I just got back from an 8-night stay, very nice campground ! It's probably the best laid out one I have been, too. The camp host was very nice! The bathrooms very clean, smelled clean even ! It has a small beach if you're all about beaches I would look elsewhere 😉 Lots to see and do within an hour drive of campground
Deb Murdoch
Wonderful little campground! Helpful, friendly staff and excellent facilities. Highly recommend
Mary Littiebrant
We camped here for 3 nights. It is a beautiful campground. It is rustic. There is no electricity and no dump if you have a trailer. There are dumps in the area that can be used if needed for a small fee. No showers. The lake is clear and warm enough to easily enjoy. Small but clean fine sand beach. We loved the beautiful hemlock trees and the trail through them. It was very quiet during our stay except that you can hear traffic from across the bay. We would go again! It's a good stopping point for a trip through the UP.