Peninsula Point Lighthouse Boondocking in Rapid River, MI – Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Stay

ZIP / Address:

Radius: 5mi10mi25mi50mi

Category: All Dump Stations Category Marker Free Category Marker Paid Category Marker Permit Category Marker

No results found in this location. Please try again.

Get Directions

From

To

Add Waypoint

For Driving Walking Transit Bicycling

show options hide options

Avoid Tolls Avoid Highways Avoid Ferries

Print directions Reset directions

Fetching directions......

Reset directions
Print directions

Peninsula Point Lighthouse Boondocking in Rapid River, MI
Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Stay

Previous Reviews:

Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking: The road in is Gravel and 1/2 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Peninsula point lighthouse.

About a quarter mile before the lighthouse. There are 2-3 pull out on fed land. Saw class B. Not much bigger then class c can fit on the road.

About This Location

Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking in Rapid River, MI lets you really soak in nature right by the water. You’ll find simple gravel-road sites for RVs up to 25 feet—no hookups, no reservations, just show up and settle in. If you want to unplug and skip the usual campground bustle, this is your kind of place.

The lighthouse is a definite highlight. You can climb 40 feet up and catch a killer view over Lake Michigan. There’s a nice mix of forest and open spots, so you can wander or just lounge around. It’s tucked away but still easy enough to reach from US-2 and the main roads, so you don’t feel totally cut off.

Key Takeaways

• Campsites near Peninsula Point are easy to get to and fit small to mid-sized RVs.
• You get natural views and a climbable lighthouse right there.
• No fees or permits needed for this dispersed camping spot.

Peninsula Lighthouse Boondocking in Rapid River, MI

You’ll find Peninsula Lighthouse boondocking near Rapid River, right up on the north shore of Lake Superior. It’s part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—a quiet camping spot with zero frills.

Dispersed camping stretches along a dirt access road near the lighthouse. You can set up near the woods or in open patches, not far from the sandy beach of Lake Superior. The Great Lakes air is fresh, and the sunsets? Pretty unbeatable.

There’s a boat ramp close by, so if you’re into fishing or boating, you’re all set. The beach by the lighthouse is perfect for unwinding after a day outside. Remember to bring your own water and supplies—there’s no formal campground or services out here.

The Upper Peninsula’s wild beauty wraps around you. Keweenaw Peninsula isn’t far, if you’re itching to explore more. Sunsets over Lake Superior from the lighthouse area are peaceful and clear.

What to Expect:

Things To Do

At Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking, you’ve got a few solid ways to enjoy the outdoors. The lighthouse itself? You can climb its 40-foot tower via a circular staircase. The views from up top are wide open—great for photos, or just soaking it all in.

There are easy trails for hiking and nature walks nearby. You’ll wind through forested areas, spotting local plants and maybe some wildlife if you’re lucky.

If you’re bringing lunch, there’s a picnic area where you can kick back and eat outside. It’s a chill spot to rest after a hike or a climb—quiet, shaded, and comfortable even when it’s warm.

Fishing is an option too, with waters nearby offering a peaceful way to spend some time. Don’t forget to check the local rules before you cast a line.

No playgrounds or mountain biking trails here, but you’re close to bigger parks and forests. Places like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area are within reach if you want more adventure—hiking, biking, canoeing, all that good stuff.

You could plan a day trip to Isle Royale or check out waterfalls in the area. There’s plenty to do if you’re up for exploring beyond the lighthouse.

Directions

To get to Peninsula Lighthouse Boondocking in Rapid River, MI, start by heading into Rapid River. From there, take US-2 east for about 2.4 miles. That’s your main route connecting you to the rest of the Upper Peninsula.

After 2.4 miles, turn right onto County Road 513. This road takes you straight south toward the lighthouse. The last stretch winds through some quiet woods—a pretty drive before you arrive.

If you’re doing the Lake Superior Circle Tour, this stop fits in nicely. Peninsula Point makes a great break for travelers. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and breathe in some quiet nature.

Coming from Grand Portage or road-tripping along US-2? Peninsula Point is easy to access. Just follow US-2 in your direction and watch for the County Road 513 turnoff.

Here’s a quick reference:

Keep these GPS coordinates handy: 45.667839, -86.967269. Cell service can get spotty out here, so having them ready helps.

Vehicle Access

The road to Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking is mostly gravel and starts about half a mile from pavement. It’s narrow, and the last 0.8 miles go single-lane. Take it slow, especially if it’s been raining.

If your RV is longer than 25 feet, don’t risk it. Deep holes and muddy patches can make it rough for bigger rigs. Smaller trucks, SUVs, or cars handle it best.

Parking is tight—just a handful of spots near the campsites, maybe 1 to 5 total. If you want a spot, aim to arrive early.

Quick checklist:

• Gravel road, half a mile from pavement
• Last 0.8 miles: narrow, single-lane
• No go for RVs over 25 feet
• Watch for deep holes and muddy stretches
• Limited parking at campsites

Check road and weather conditions before you head out. It’s just smart—better to prep than get stuck or ding up your vehicle.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

The road to Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking gets narrow, winding, and single-lane for the last 0.8 miles. So, don’t try it with big RVs or long trailers. It’s tough to maneuver, and you might not make it.

Smaller campers or towables can get closer, but you’ve got to be careful. Double-check your vehicle’s size and clearance before you go for it.

If you want more convenience, several campgrounds and RV parks sit near Rapid River. Those spots offer water, electricity, and dump stations.

Bring everything you’ll need if you plan to boondock near the lighthouse. There’s no water, electricity, or waste services out here.

A smaller camper or tent works best for Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking. It’s safer, less hassle, and you’ll have a better time at this out-of-the-way spot.

Paid Or Permit Sites

If you’re in the Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking area, you’ll notice some campsites in the area want permits or payment. These spots usually come with better upkeep and, sometimes, a few perks you might not get elsewhere.

Take Bass Lake and Bear Lake, for instance—they both ask for permits. You’ll find these sites feel a bit more organized than the free ones. Honestly, it’s best to grab those permits ahead of time, just to save yourself the headache later.

Here’s a quick look at the permit situation:

When you use the Peninsula Point Lighthouse boondocking sites, you’re sticking to the rules and pitching in to keep the area around the lighthouse in good shape. The money from permits or fees goes right back into maintenance.

If you’d rather skip the fees, you can find some free sites over by Rapid River. But let’s be honest—permits do make things a bit safer and more predictable at the spots that require them.

Honestly, just check the local rules before you show up. It’s a simple step, but it really helps you avoid any last-minute surprises and lets you focus on enjoying your trip.

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