About this campground
New! Take a self-guided tour of our Lighthouses via the Hiawatha's OnCell App! Learn more here. Situated atop a 175 foot cliff on Grand Island's north end, this lighthouse has been identified as the highest lighthouse above sea level in the United States. Originally built of wood in 1856, this remote lighthouse was a key navigational marker during the trading boom that followed completion of the Soo Locks in 1855. With an ideal safe harbor in the bay on the island's lee side, Grand Island had long been a primary stopping place for Native Americans, traders and others plying Lake Superior's south shore. In 1867, the already-deteriorated wooden lighthouse was replaced with the current brick lighthouse, consisting of a simple brick keeper's house and a 40 foot tower. The light was automated in 1941.
Getting there
The privately owned lighthouse is not accessible by land, but may be viewed commercial airplane tours or by private watercraft. Consult the local marine forecast before venturing onto Lake Superior as weather conditions may change rapidly.
Explore more Michigan camping
Grand Island North Lighthouse doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby Michigan campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.
Browse Michigan camping →Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.