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Backcountry camping registration

The visitor center includes a large relief model of the Porcupine Mountains, allowing visitors to map out a visit to the park's backcountry and obtain a perspective on its rugged topography. Noted for its scenic vistas and striking geologic formations, the park's outstanding feature is the 35,000 acres of old-growth hardwood forest. But these mountains also have a rich geologic history, and those who explore here will be amazed by what they discover.

The center also serves as a registration station for backcountry campers. Here, visitors staying overnight in the park's backcountry can obtain camping permits and receive valuable information on trail conditions, black bear sightings and minimum-impact camping techniques. Staff also can assist visitors with information on campgrounds, trailside cabins, area facilities, and hunting and fishing opportunities.

There are numerous established backcountry campsites for hikers to choose from. All are equipped with a metal fire ring and most have "bear poles" for hanging food bags and other scented items.

Backpacking in the Porcupine Mountains is $20 per night for groups of one to six people. Group sizes are limited to no more than six. Permits are issued upon arrival to the park, at the visitor center. Reservations are available six months in advance and up to 72 hours before arriving at MiDNRReservations.com or 1-800-44PARKS. During the remainder of the year, Oct. 15 through May 14, campers must register at park headquarters.

The visitor center is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time, daily from May 15 through Oct. 14. During the shoulder season, it is best to arrive before 4 p.m. to ensure you check in and get keys/door codes, permit, etc. The remainder of the year, the visitor center is closed and permits can be obtained at the headquarters, next door to the visitor center.

Learn more about Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park at Michigan.gov/Porkies.