Power Island (Basset Island)
A secluded island paradise in Lake Michigan, offering rustic camping, beautiful beaches, and miles of hiking trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful escape
Power Island (Basset Island)
Best Time
Peaceful escape

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded island paradise in Lake Michigan, offering rustic camping, beautiful beaches, and miles of hiking trails.
"Amazing piece of isolated nature with beautiful beaches and warm water."
🛶 Boat Access is Key
Power Island is best reached by boat. Kayaks, jet skis, and larger vessels are common.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Rustic campsites are popular. Reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secluded Beaches
Various coves around the island
Discover warm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. Many beaches offer protection from wind and boat traffic.

Hiking Trails
Throughout the island
Explore over 5 miles of trails through diverse natural landscapes. Maps can be a bit tricky, so pay attention!

Sunset Views
Western shores
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan, a truly magical experience.

Rustic Camping
Designated campsites
Experience a true island getaway with rustic camping. Book in advance, as sites can fill up.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Access & Camping
Best Time for Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Boat Access is Key
Power Island is best reached by boat. Kayaks, jet skis, and larger vessels are common.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Rustic campsites are popular. Reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekends.
⚠️ Mind the Weather
Lake Michigan weather changes fast. Be prepared for choppy waters and wind.
🗺️ Trail Maps
Hiking trail maps can be confusing; pay close attention to your surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Boat Access is Key
Power Island is best reached by boat. Kayaks, jet skis, and larger vessels are common.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Rustic campsites are popular. Reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekends.
⚠️ Mind the Weather
Lake Michigan weather changes fast. Be prepared for choppy waters and wind.
🗺️ Trail Maps
Hiking trail maps can be confusing; pay close attention to your surroundings.
☀️ Beach Bliss
Enjoy the warm, shallow beaches – perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Power Island's beautiful beaches and warm, shallow waters, making it a fantastic spot for swimming and relaxation. The island offers a peaceful escape, especially on weekdays, with opportunities for hiking and enjoying stunning sunsets. Some find the trail maps confusing, and certain campsites are less ideal than others, but the overall experience is highly positive for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.
"We camped on Bassett Island site 13. Canoed over from Bowers harbor boat launch (be very mindful of weather and wind, gets choppy fast). Site 13 wasn’t great but was all that was available for out timeframe. Site was very small with no access to our canoe or bathroom without walking through other sites. Had to set up our tent very close to the trail to stay far enough away from the fire ring. Every other campsite was great and much larger. Grab another site if you can. This site worked, just not ideal. Water was absolutely beautiful, especially in the cove protected from wind and fast boats."
Jeremy Upham
"Love this place. Big shallow beaches and warm water."
LoRee Stephens
"I loved my visit to power island! It actually has a few hiking trails that aren’t too difficult, but the map is difficult to understand. The surrounding beaches were packed with people but everyone was good about keeping their space. It was fun to jump in the water off the dock!"
Lou Lou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Power Island is accessible by boat, kayak, or jet ski from the mainland. The closest launch points are often from Bowers Harbor or other marinas in Traverse City.
No, Power Island is not accessible by car. It's an island destination that requires watercraft for access.
Kayaking to Power Island involves paddling across Lake Michigan. Be mindful of wind and wave conditions, as they can change rapidly.
While specific rental information varies, marinas in Traverse City often offer boat rentals. It's advisable to check with local rental companies in advance.
Boating to Power Island is generally safe, but always check weather forecasts and be aware of changing conditions on Lake Michigan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no admission tickets required to visit Power Island. It's a natural preserve open to the public.
Camping on Power Island is typically free or requires a minimal reservation fee, depending on current park regulations. It's best to check with local authorities for the most up-to-date information.
Power Island is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set closing times for the island itself, but camping requires adherence to park rules.
Yes, swimming off the dock is a popular activity at Power Island. The water is often described as beautiful and clear.
There is no specific entrance fee for day use on Power Island. Access is free for visitors arriving by watercraft.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking the trails, swimming at the beaches, sunbathing, picnicking, and camping. It's a great spot for enjoying nature and water activities.
Yes, Power Island has over 5 miles of hiking trails. They are generally not too difficult, but the map can be challenging to follow.
Camping is rustic, meaning there are limited amenities. Expect basic campsites without extensive facilities.
Power Island can get busy with boaters on weekends, but weekdays are much quieter. The beaches can be packed, but people are generally good about respecting space.
While not extensively documented, visitors might encounter local birdlife and other small island fauna. One TikTok mentioned meeting a friendly dog!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Power Island is a natural preserve with no restaurants or food services. You must bring all your own food and drinks.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and meals for your visit. Consider easy-to-prepare items for camping or picnics.
While not explicitly designated, many of the beach areas and open spaces are suitable for picnicking.
Campfires are generally permitted in designated fire rings at campsites, but always check local regulations and fire bans before lighting one.
For dining options, you'll need to return to Traverse City, which offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Power Island offers stunning opportunities for sunset photos, beach landscapes, and nature shots. The clear water and island scenery are very photogenic.
Drone photography is popular on Power Island, with many creators sharing aerial views. Always be aware of local drone regulations.
The golden hour before sunset provides beautiful lighting for photography. Mornings can also offer calm waters and soft light.
The clear waters make Power Island a great spot for underwater photography, especially near the beaches.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture wildlife. Waterproof gear is advisable for water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Reaching the island by kayak or a family-friendly boat ride can be an exciting part of the adventure. Ensure you have adequate sun protection, as the island is exposed. For a memorable family outing, Power Island provides a unique blend of outdoor activity and natural beauty.
🛶 Adventure Seekers & Kayakers
Once on the island, you can explore its coastline by kayak, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the feeling of being on your own private paradise. The journey itself is as much a part of the experience as the destination, making it ideal for those seeking a challenging and rewarding outdoor pursuit.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Lovers
Aerial shots from drones are also incredibly popular, showcasing the island's beauty from a unique perspective. Visiting during the golden hour will provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your shots. Remember to bring your camera gear and be ready to capture the stunning scenery that Power Island has to offer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Power Island
For those without their own watercraft, exploring boat rental options in Traverse City is recommended. Planning your departure and return times is essential, especially considering the potential for changing weather. The journey across the bay offers beautiful views, making the arrival at the island even more rewarding.
Island Camping Experience
Campers should pack all necessary supplies, including tents, sleeping gear, food, water, and any cooking equipment. The appeal of camping here lies in the solitude and the opportunity to wake up surrounded by nature. Being mindful of fire regulations and leaving no trace are important aspects of enjoying this natural preserve responsibly.
Exploring Power Island's Natural Beauty
Beyond the trails and beaches, Power Island is a prime location for capturing stunning photography, especially during sunset. The clear waters also lend themselves to underwater exploration. Whether you're hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenery, the island offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit