About Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin
Overview Twelvemile Beach Campground is a beautiful campground along Lake Superior located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just 15 miles (24 km) west of Grand Marais. There are 36 sites total, including 2 universally accessible sites. Twelvemile Beach has water, pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and an interpretive amphitheater. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile (3.2 km) long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet (13 m). Recreation There are three sets of stairs to the beach as well as a day-use picnic area and parking. The two-mile (3.2 km) long White Birch Trail begins and ends at the campground. The North Country Trail treks through the campground. The entrance road winds through a picturesque stand of white birch. Facilities Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore drive-in campsites are rustic and do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups. Campsites provide a picnic table, fire ring with grill grate, and tent pad. The campground has vault toilets, well water and an interpretive amphitheater. Typically there is no cell phone reception. There are 36 sites total, including 2 universally accessible sites. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile (3.2 km) long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet (13 m). Natural Features Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound.
How to Get There
Twelvemile Beach Campground is located 15 miles (24 km) west of Grand Marais off Alger County Road H-58 (34 miles/55 km east of Munising).
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin
Heading to Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin?
No central reservation system listed for Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/247602) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin?
Twelvemile Beach Campground is located 15 miles (24 km) west of Grand Marais off Alger County Road H-58 (34 miles/55 km east of Munising).
How do I contact Twelvemile Beach Campground and Cabin?
You can reach the park at phone: 906-387-3700 or email: piro_information@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources