Tahquamenon Falls State Park, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a popular destination for those seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Encompassing nearly 50,000 acres and stretching 13-plus miles, the park offers visitors a range of activities and picturesque scenery.
The park is home to multiple campgrounds, overnight lodging facilities, a boat launch, and more than 35 miles of trails for hiking and exploring the region’s natural beauty.
This comprehensive camping guide will provide valuable information and tips to help visitors plan a memorable and enriching experience in this beautiful state park.
Park Overview
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This vast 13-mile area is made up primarily of undeveloped woodland, offering visitors a chance to experience nature at its purest.
Visitors can also enjoy the serene beauty of the Upper and Lower Falls, with the 200-foot-wide Upper Falls being one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.
For those seeking a more adventurous camping experience, Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers three backcountry camping options along the North Country Trail. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, bear bag, and latrine, providing a rugged yet comfortable camping experience.
Modern amenities are not left behind, as the Tahquamenon Rivermouth Campground, situated near the Upper Falls, features 72 sites with electrical service, including some equipped with 50-amp hookups.
Camping Options
Modern Campgrounds
Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers modern campground facilities for those seeking a comfortable camping experience. Campers can find a variety of amenities, such as electric hookups, water, and restrooms with showers. The park has multiple campgrounds to choose from:
Each campground provides different scenery and access to park attractions, making it easy for campers to choose a location that best suits their interests and needs.
Backcountry Campsites
For those who prefer a more rugged and immersive experience, backcountry camping is available in Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park features dispersed camping options along the North Country Trail.
These backcountry campsites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, bear bag, and latrine, offering a balance between convenience and wilderness immersion. Keep in mind that backcountry camping requires more preparation and self-sufficiency than modern camping due to its remote nature and limited amenities.
Campsite Reservations
Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers a variety of camping options for visitors looking to explore its magnificent waterfalls and natural beauty. With five campgrounds and a total of 350 campsites, there is an option to suit every camper’s needs.
To ensure a spot at the desired campground, it is advised to make reservations in advance. Campsites within the state park can be booked up to six months ahead of the planned visit. Making reservations is particularly important during peak visitation periods, as the park attracts as many as 500,000 visitors annually.
To book a campsite, use the online reservation system.
Campground Amenities and Facilities
Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers various amenities and facilities to make your camping experience enjoyable and comfortable. In addition to these, Tahquamenon Falls State Park also provides various recreational facilities to enhance your camping adventure:
- Over 35 miles of trails offer scenic views and hiking, biking, and birdwatching opportunities.
- Boat launch facilities are available for campers looking to explore the river and the park’s surrounding nature.
- Multiple overlooks and viewpoints provide stunning views of the Upper and Lower Falls, making them the perfect spots for photography and relaxation.
While staying at Tahquamenon Falls State Park, you can also enjoy a range of family-friendly activities and attractions. The park offers snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing trails for outdoor enthusiasts in winter.
Visitors can observe various wildlife species in their natural habitats, including deer, bears, and multiple bird species. And the river offers excellent opportunities for anglers to catch various fish species.
Recreational Activities
Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With thousands of acres of land and miles of trails, you can partake in numerous adventures, from hiking and fishing to photography.
Hiking Trails
The park’s extensive trail system caters to hikers of all skill levels. Some popular trails include:
- River Trail: A challenging 4.0-mile trail connecting the Upper and Lower Falls.
- Nature Trail: An easy, 0.5-mile trail, traversable for even the youngest member of your party.
- Giant Pines Loop: A moderate 3.8-mile hike that winds through old-growth white pine forests.
Visitors can also hike portions of the North Country Trail, which spans over 4,600 miles and crosses through the park.
Fishing
Tahquamenon Falls State Park provides plenty of opportunities for anglers, with access to the Tahquamenon River and various lakes within the park. Fishermen can potentially catch species such as Brook trout, Yellow perch, and Smallmouth bass.
Remember to check and follow Michigan’s fishing regulations, and be prepared with the appropriate licenses and gear.
And if you’re interested in learning more about the potential catch of the day in Michigan’s waters, discover the diversity of freshwater species and their habitats.
Photography
The breathtaking waterfalls, unique landscapes, and diverse wildlife make Tahquamenon Falls State Park an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts. Key points of interest include:
- Upper Falls: One of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, with a width of 200 feet, it offers stunning panoramic shots.
- Lower Falls: A series of smaller cascades that provide picturesque settings for close-up captures.
- Scenic overlooks: Various viewpoints offer dramatic perspectives of the park’s landscapes.
Remember to respect the park’s rules and practice responsible photography by not disturbing the natural environment or local wildlife.
Park Rules and Regulations
Before planning a camping trip to this beautiful park, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations that help maintain its pristine condition.
- Campers must check in and out according to the park’s designated hours and adhere to the specified campsite capacity.
- Only use approved firewood sourced within the park or from a certified vendor. This practice helps prevent the spread of invasive insects and diseases.
- Firearms and other weapons are prohibited within the park.
- Quiet hours are typically enforced from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. to ensure a peaceful environment for all visitors.
- Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and are not permitted in park buildings or designated swimming areas.
- Campers must utilize designated dump stations for any waste generated during their stay.
Park Wildlife
Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan is a haven for a variety of wildlife species and provides numerous opportunities to explore the area’s unique beauty.
The park is home to an abundance of species, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and moose. It is also a habitat for various bird species, such as bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
While exploring Tahquamenon Falls State Park is an incredible experience, several other must-see attractions are nearby to enhance your visit.
One intriguing nearby attraction is the M-123 Tahquamenon Scenic Byway. This charming route offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness, making for an unforgettable scenic drive.
The Mackinac Bridge History Cruise is an excellent option if history interests you. This cruise offers unique insights into the construction and history of the iconic bridge, all while providing stunning views from a different perspective.
Similarly, you might enjoy the magical Mackinaw City Sunset Cruise, which offers breathtaking sunsets against the backdrop of the area’s natural beauty.
Fall in Love With Tahquamenon Falls
No matter how you choose to camp in Tahquamenon Fall State Park, you’re sure to fall in love with the falls, wildlife, and an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the park’s offerings.
Looking for more Michigan fun? Check out the state’s 13 best cabin camping options.
- About the Author
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Hey there, I’m Ryan, the face behind Beyond The Tent.
With decades of camping experiences, my journey into the wilderness began on the rustic trails of a farm in southern Minnesota, where my childhood was filled with explorations and camping by a picturesque river.
My family’s adventures across the United States, from the majestic Colorado mountains to the serene national parks and the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Northern Minnesota have given me a broad perspective. With each journey, whether in state parks or private encampments, and through the homely comfort of our camping trailers, we’ve amassed a trove of stories, experiences, and invaluable camping wisdom.