About this place

Grand Island is a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area with fascinating history, beautiful overlooks, pristine sandy beaches, dense hardwood forest, serene inland lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails. This is a unique destination to spend a day or more biking, hiking, exploring, or just hanging out and recharging. Visitors get to the island by passenger ferry from Munising or private watercraft. The dock at Williams Landing can be used for loading and unloading, but boats may not be left there. Jet skis/motorboats are prohibited from landing on shore. Murray Bay, Trout Bay and North Beach have sand beaches with little to no obstructions where a kayak or paddle boat can land. Most locations on the northwest and northeast sides are sheer cliffs. There are 21 designated campsites, including 2 group sites. Reservations are required Memorial Day through Columbus Day, except for Cobble Cove, Flat Rock, and Muskrat Point, which are first-come/first-served. All reservations must be made through Recreation.gov and can be made up to, and including, the day of arrival. Shelter Ridge Campsite is located on the northern-most tip of Grand Island. The site can be accessed either by the island's trail system or by water. Via water, Shelter Ridge is closest to North Beach. Beware of the weather, wind, and wave action while accessing the north side of Grand Island. This area may demand expert navigational skills. Once you land at North Beach, walk up to the Rim Trail, and hike approximately 100 yards east to the campsite. Via trail, it is approximately 10.5 miles from William's Landing. The nearest potable water is found at Juniper Flats, approx. 6 miles to the south. This site can accommodate up to 6 people in up to two tents. A primitive latrine, bear pole, benches and fire ring are provided. A fee is charged.