Eastern UP

Best Camping Near Sugar Island

Quiet wilderness accessible from Sault Ste. Marie by free ferry

Best: Summer, Fall

About Sugar Island

Sugar Island sits in the St. Marys River just downstream from the Soo Locks. You reach it on a free Chippewa County ferry from the east side of Sault Ste. Marie — a 10-minute crossing that most visitors never bother with. The island is about 80% state forest. There are a handful of small resorts, a township campground, and miles of two-track that get almost no traffic. The fishing in the St. Marys River channels around the island is serious — walleye, lake trout, muskie. If you want to escape without driving three hours, this is the exit.

Campgrounds Near Sugar Island

Vetted campgrounds within the Sugar Island area — from state park sites to private full-hookup RV parks.

Sugar Island Township Campground

Township

$15 /night

20 sites

Basic rustic sites. Free ferry from Sault Ste. Marie east side to reach the island.

Book on Hipcamp →

Trails Near Sugar Island

Sugar Island Perimeter Road

Quiet gravel roads around the island with St. Marys River views. Almost no traffic. Bring your own bike.

20.0 mi

Easy

Cycling

Gear up for the trail

Don't forget the essentials

Bear spray, trekking poles, headlamp, and moisture-wicking layers — must-haves for UP trails. Quick links to Amazon for the most-searched UP camping gear.

Bear spray → Headlamp → Hiking boots → Trekking poles → Rain jacket →

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