Little Bay de Noc Campground in Rapid River, MI – Ultimate Guide to Amenities and Activities

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Little Bay de Noc Campground in Rapid River, MI
Ultimate Guide to Amenities and Activities

Previous Reviews:

Little Bay de Noc Campground: Little Bay de Noc – Maywood Loop is open May-Oct. Little Bay Campground provides a quiet respite from more developed campgrounds in the area. It has long been a favorite for visitors seeking solitude. Beautiful sunsets can be seen over the glistening water of the Little Bay de Noc, and campers enjoy water activities on the lake.

Natural Features:The campground sits on the shore of Little Bay de Noc, on the north end of Lake MI. A group camping area is separated from the other sites with oak, hemlock and hardwood trees, providing a relatively private camping experience.

Recreation:The bay is widely recognized as one of the finest walleye fisheries in the country. The Hunters Point paved boat ramp is located less than a mile from the entrance of the campground.

Other than fishing, visitors enjoy non-motorized boating and swimming, or simply enjoying the beach. A variety of hiking trails are also within a couple miles of the campground.

Facilities:The campground offers multiple single-family sites and two large group sites, available for tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are also provided.

A day-use picnic area is equipped with tables and grills. An adjacent open grassy area is available for large recreational gatherings. The picnic area is also adjacent to the swimming beach and boat ramp.

About This Location

Little Bay de Noc Campground in Rapid River, MI sits quietly on the northern edge of Lake Michigan, tucked inside the Hiawatha National Forest. You’ll find easy access to both single and group campsites right on the water, which makes it a favorite for families and groups who want to stay close to nature and the lakeshore. Whether you’re here for a weekend of fishing, hiking, or just lounging by the water, there’s something for everyone.

The area around the campground bursts with outdoor options—think trails along the Sturgeon River and quick access to Grand Island National Recreation Area. Getting here isn’t a hassle either; the roads work well for RVs and trailers. So, Little Bay de Noc makes a handy home base if you’re itching to explore the Upper Peninsula, especially the Stonington Peninsula or the vast Hiawatha forest.

Key Takeways

• The campground has 38 sites for tents, RVs, and groups.
• It sits on Lake Michigan’s shore in the Upper Peninsula.
• You’ll get solid vehicle access and nearby hiking and water activities.

Little Bay de Noc Campground in Rapid River, MI

Little Bay de Noc Campground sits just a few miles from Rapid River, Michigan, perched right at the water’s edge on Lake Michigan’s north shore. There are 36 single sites and 2 group sites, so you’ve got options whether you’re camping with family or a bigger crew.

Every site comes with a picnic table and a campfire ring. You can stroll down short sandy trails from your campsite straight to the shore for a swim or launch your boat from the nearby ramp.

You’re surrounded by the Hiawatha National Forest here, and it feels peaceful, with plenty of trees and quiet corners. U.S. Highway 2 gives you a straightforward route in, with clear signs from Rapid River or Gladstone.

Want to see more? Pete’s Lake Campground and Widewaters Campground aren’t far, and if you’re craving a resort vibe, Vagabond Resort is close by too. Big Bay de Noc sits just south, offering even more wild shoreline to wander.

Here’s a quick look at some features:

If you want lakefront camping with easy access to nature and small-town Michigan, this spot delivers.

Things To Do

At Little Bay de Noc Campground, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Fishing is huge here. The waters hold walleye, northern pike, bass, and trout. You can cast from shore or jump on a fishing charter if you’re feeling ambitious.

Hiking trails nearby wind through the forest and show off some seriously nice views. Whether you’re up for a mellow stroll or a heart-pumping hike, you’ll find something that fits.

Canoeing on Little Bay de Noc is a solid way to spend an afternoon. The bay’s usually calm, so even beginners can have a good time.

Besides fishing and hiking, you’ve got the beach, picnic areas, and a boat launch to fill your days. Sometimes the best plan is just to relax and soak up the view.

Key activities we can enjoy include:

Little Bay de Noc makes it easy to unplug and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re fishing, hiking, or paddling, there’s always something to do.

Directions

To get to Little Bay de Noc Campground, start in Rapid River, Michigan. Drive 2 miles east on the main road, then turn onto County Road 513 and head south for about 6 miles. That’s it—you’ll see the campground along that stretch.

Coming from Gladstone or elsewhere in Delta County? Take US Highway 2 to Rapid River, then follow the same route: east 2 miles, south 6 miles on County Road 513.

If you’re starting in Indian River, head west on local roads toward Rapid River. From there, it’s the same deal: east 2 miles, south 6 miles, and you’re there.

The campground is close to Hiawatha National Forest and pretty easy to spot. The address is 7298 Twin Springs 205 Ln, Rapid River, MI 49878. You can always use GPS or call (877) 444-6777 if you need a hand.

Directions summary:

Just follow these steps and you’ll find Little Bay de Noc Campground without much trouble.

Vehicle Access

Most folks drive in from Rapid River. The usual route is 2 miles east to County Road 513, then about 6 miles south to the entrance.

You don’t need anything fancy—roads are in good shape for cars, trucks, and RVs. Some sites are tucked away for privacy and might be a little farther from the main drag.

Each campsite has its own parking. Usually, you can squeeze in one or two vehicles. Vehicle fees are baked into the site price, so there’s nothing extra to worry about.

While you’re driving around inside, keep an eye out—roads can get narrow and there are always kids and other campers about. The speed limit stays low for a reason.

Drinking water’s up near the main area, and vault toilets are scattered around so you won’t need to hop in the car just to find a restroom.

You can haul in your gear and supplies with your vehicle. The layout makes loading and unloading pretty painless, which definitely helps keep things relaxed.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

Little Bay de Noc Campground has sites for both tents and RVs. You’ll find plenty of room, even for bigger camping trailers or RVs.

Most spots have a good amount of trees and brush between them, so you don’t feel like you’re on top of your neighbors. Some sites are right on the lakeshore, which is great if you want to wake up to water views or hit the beach trail first thing.

Don’t expect electric hookups at every site—actually, most are non-electric. Plan ahead if you need power. The standard rate for non-electric sites is $22 a night, and group sites (which can handle multiple RVs or trailers) cost more.

You won’t find cabins or built-in lodging here. It’s all about camping out in the open, which is honestly part of the charm.

This place is designed for a quiet, remote experience. If you’re after a laid-back stay with your RV or trailer, you’ll fit right in. Just remember to bring your own water and power—services are pretty limited.

Booking ahead is smart, especially when things get busy. That way, you can be sure you’ve got a spot that works for your RV and your camping crew.

Paid Or Permit Sites

At Little Bay de Noc Campground, you’ll find that most campsites need a fee or permit. Day use runs $5 per vehicle for up to five people. Overnight camping? Standard sites start at about $22 a night.

You can choose between single-family and group campsites. Group sites go for around $44 per night and work well for bigger gatherings. Every site has basic stuff—tables, a campfire ring, the usual.

The sites can fit RVs and trailers. Most spots handle rigs up to 40 feet, but a few can squeeze in something as long as 60 feet. Driveways are mostly gravel, so most vehicles should be fine.

You can reserve any site up to six months ahead. There are both reservable and first-come, first-served options, depending on what’s open.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key details:

Helpful Boondocking Information Links:

Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace

State Specific Information Links

Michigan Park Service
Michigan Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources