The modern campground is divided into two loops, the back (or north) and front (or south) loops. Most sites are modest in size and heavily shaded. The campground is on the park’s west side and is located near Lake Michigan. There is 20/30-amp service available on each site, some sites with 50-amp, and a sanitation station nearby. Recycling is available at the Cedar Campground.

The popular Logging Trail starts at the north end of the campground.

The campground is a jumping-off point for the 1.8-mile-long (one way) sand-and-gravel pathway that leads to the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. The pathway has little shade and is considered more strenuous, especially in the heat of the day. The pathway is accessible by foot or bike (although it can be more difficult for road bikes).

Directions: Follow the signs into the Pines Campground and then follow the lighthouse symbols painted on the road until you come to the sand-and-gravel pathway located between campsites 58 and 59. Continue down the pathway for the remaining 1.5 miles (one way) trip to the lighthouse. You can return along the same route or walk the shoreline back to the Lake Michigan day-use area (high water levels may make this difficult).