Things to do
Your adventure basecamp awaits! Union River’s Big Bear Campground is perfectly situated to offer everything from lakeside relaxation to challenging mountain hikes.
Right Outside
Adventure is just a short stroll from your campsite.
- Lake Superior Beach: The soft, sandy shores of Union Bay await! Swim, picnic, sunbathe, or hunt for natural treasures like colorful agates, gnarled driftwood, and shimmering Yooperlites. Sunrises and sunsets over the deep blue waters are breathtaking.
- Park Visitor’s Center: Located just ¼ mile away, the Visitor’s Center is your resource for area information, maps, videos, and guidance on the vast trail system.
- Lake Superior Circle Tour: We’re proud to be part of the route which you can view on SuperiorTrails.com.
Explore the Porcupine Mountains
Access over 90 miles of trails for every skill level, right from your basecamp.
- Hiking & Backpacking: Explore the rugged beauty of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Choose from gentle walks or challenging treks past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil lakes and streams.
- Lake of the Clouds Overlook: Take a scenic drive to the famous overlook, known as the “end of the earth.” Wander the boardwalk along the rocky escarpment and soak in the peaceful, panoramic views.
- Fall Color Tour: Experience an internationally acclaimed natural wonder! Autumn brings a spectacular display of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows throughout the forest, an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
Local Attractions & Water Activities
- Ontonagon Lighthouse & Museum: Dive into local history just 15 miles east in Ontonagon. Explore the Ontonagon County Historical Society Lighthouse and Museum with engaging exhibits and a guided tour.
- Porcupine Mountain Music Festival: Don’t miss this local favorite, held the last weekend of August. Enjoy live performances spanning every genre in a one-of-a-kind forest setting.
- Paddling: Launch a canoe or kayak and paddle across Lake Superior to soak in the stunning shoreline views.
- Fishing: Cast a line in the area’s renowned fishing spots:
- Inland Lakes: Head to Lake Gogebic, the Upper Peninsula’s largest inland lake, known for walleye and perch.
- Rivers: The Ontonagon River and Big Iron River offer excellent river fishing.
- Lake Superior: Shines in spring and fall with lake trout and steelhead.
- Streams: The area is dotted with quiet brook trout waters for a peaceful day of angling.
