We stayed at the Bay Furnace Campground in Munising, Michigan.
The Bay Furnace Campground is directly on Lake Superior, with several campsites having direct access to the lake water.
Bay Furnace Campground
The campground is a part of the Hiawatha National Forest and maintained by a concessioner for the federal government.
While visiting the area, we also went on a cruise to visit the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and did some paddleboarding in the area.
We stayed in campsite #40 and found it to be roomy, flat, and very comfortable.
This is dry camping, meaning there are no electricity, water, or sewer hookups in each campsite.
Generators are allowed to be used and there is drinking water available by the dump station as well as at several pumps throughout the campground.
There are also pit toilets in restrooms available at multiple locations throughout the Bay Furnace Campground.
These were clean and did not smell during our stay.
Best Campsites at Bay Furnace Campground
There are three campsites at the campground that are directly on Lake Superior.
These are the best campsites in the campground, so be sure to reserve these if they are available during your stay.
Campsites #8, #9 and #10 have direct access to Lake Superior.
Campsite #8 is reserved for the campground host, and it is a fantastic, large campsite.
The other two sites, #9 and #10, are excellent choices for being right on Lake Superior.
These campsites are available for RV or tent camping. There is a small beach available a few steps from these campsites.
Reservations
You can make reservations for the Bay Furnace Campground online.
Bay Furnace Ruins History
The campground received its name from the bay furnace ruins that remain on the campground on the shore of Lake Superior.
It was established in 1870 and used to make iron.
The furnace was destroyed in a fire in 1877, but the ruins remain today in the campground area near the picnic area directly across from the Grand Island.
A short 1/8 mile loop with signs around the furnace explain its history.
There is a parking lot and a small park directly next to the Bay Furnace ruins.
The park includes several picnic tables and BBQ grills available for visitors’ use.
There is also a small beach on Lake Superior directly below the picnic area. The water in the lake was too cold for most people to brave it for swimming, even in the July heat.
Final Thoughts on the Bay Furnace Campground
We had a great time in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
There are many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, etc in the area.
We went during the warm summer months and the relatively cool temperature was a welcome respite.
The Bay Furnace Campground was a great base for us and we enjoyed the sights in the area.
