Power Island (Basset Island) - Small island in the middle of nowhere
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Power Island (Basset Island)

4.8
·12 reviews·Traverse City, United States

A secluded island paradise in Lake Michigan, offering rustic camping, beautiful beaches, and miles of hiking trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Peaceful escape

CrowdLow
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Power Island (Basset Island) - Small island in the middle of nowhere

Power Island (Basset Island)

Best Time

Weekdays

Peaceful escape

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded island paradise in Lake Michigan, offering rustic camping, beautiful beaches, and miles of hiking trails.

4.8
(12 reviews)

"Amazing piece of isolated nature with beautiful beaches and warm water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛶 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secluded Beaches

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.

Reddit
Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Throughout the island

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

TikTokReddit
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Western shores

Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan, a truly magical experience.

TikTokInstagram
Rustic Camping

Rustic Camping

Designated campsites

Experience a true island getaway with rustic camping. Book in advance, as sites can fill up.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Island Access & Camping

Power Island is accessible by boat, kayak, or jet ski. Camping is available, but sites are rustic. Be prepared for changing weather on Lake Michigan; conditions can get choppy quickly. TikTokReddit

Best Time for Solitude

While popular with boaters on weekends, weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. Plan your visit during the week for a quieter escape and to enjoy the island's natural beauty. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Peaceful escape
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters for arrival
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Power Island is located north of Traverse City in the West Arm of the Grand Traverse Bay! You take all your camping gear by boat. Power Island is a 200 acre island with over 3 miles of waterfront and over 5 miles of hiking trails.#puremichigan #chasingsunsets #michigansunset #powerisland#michigan
@bodewadmifitmom
7 likes • 216 views

🛶 Boat Access is Key

Power Island is best reached by boat. Kayaks, jet skis, and larger vessels are common. TikTok+1

🏕️ Book Camping Early

Rustic campsites are popular. Reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekends. TikTokReddit

#onthisday #powerisland #traversecity #campingmemories #travel
@cristiangreger
10 likes • 168 views
Power Island and Basset Island almost sunset! . . . #powerisland #bassetisland #michigan #northmichigan #traversecity #traversecitymichigan #puremichigan #suckerforsunsets #sunset #sunsetlovers #sunsetmadness #sunsetsky #nature #islands #islandlife #summervibes #travel #camping #dronelife #dronepilot #dronestagram #dronelovers #explore #findbeauty #liveoutdoors #campingmichigan #dowhatyoulove #do...
cristian.greger
34 likes • 541 views

⚠️ Mind the Weather

Lake Michigan weather changes fast. Be prepared for choppy waters and wind. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Maps

Hiking trail maps can be confusing; pay close attention to your surroundings. Reddit

Successful early birthday trip to Power and Basset island last summer that didn’t start with a broken anchor line and a mad dash back to the mooring ball surrounded by a lightening storm with Mark Courtade #sweetalice #sailing #island #adventures #memories #summer2024 #iykyk #j24
the_adventerous_soul
7 likes • 210 views

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. TikTok+1

🏕️ Book Camping Early

Rustic campsites are popular. Reserve your spot in advance, especially for weekends. TikTokReddit

⚠️ Mind the Weather

Lake Michigan weather changes fast. Be prepared for choppy waters and wind. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Maps

Hiking trail maps can be confusing; pay close attention to your surroundings. Reddit

☀️ Beach Bliss

Enjoy the warm, shallow beaches – perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(12 reviews)

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. Reddit+2

"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

Beautiful beaches
Warm, shallow water
Stunning sunsets

What People Dislike

Confusing trail maps
Variable campsite quality

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. TikTokReddit+1

No, Power Island is not accessible by car. It's an island destination that requires watercraft for access. TikTok

Kayaking to Power Island involves paddling across Lake Michigan. Be mindful of wind and wave conditions, as they can change rapidly. TikTokReddit

While specific rental information varies, marinas in Traverse City often offer boat rentals. It's advisable to check with local rental companies in advance. TikTok

Boating to Power Island is generally safe, but always check weather forecasts and be aware of changing conditions on Lake Michigan. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no admission tickets required to visit Power Island. It's a natural preserve open to the public. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, swimming off the dock is a popular activity at Power Island. The water is often described as beautiful and clear. Reddit

There is no specific entrance fee for day use on Power Island. Access is free for visitors arriving by watercraft. TikTok

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokReddit

Yes, Power Island has over 5 miles of hiking trails. They are generally not too difficult, but the map can be challenging to follow. TikTokReddit

Camping is rustic, meaning there are limited amenities. Expect basic campsites without extensive facilities. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokReddit

While not extensively documented, visitors might encounter local birdlife and other small island fauna. One TikTok mentioned meeting a friendly dog! TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, Power Island is a natural preserve with no restaurants or food services. You must bring all your own food and drinks. TikTok

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and meals for your visit. Consider easy-to-prepare items for camping or picnics. TikTok

While not explicitly designated, many of the beach areas and open spaces are suitable for picnicking. TikTok

Campfires are generally permitted in designated fire rings at campsites, but always check local regulations and fire bans before lighting one. Reddit

For dining options, you'll need to return to Traverse City, which offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Power Island offers stunning opportunities for sunset photos, beach landscapes, and nature shots. The clear water and island scenery are very photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Drone photography is popular on Power Island, with many creators sharing aerial views. Always be aware of local drone regulations. Instagram

The golden hour before sunset provides beautiful lighting for photography. Mornings can also offer calm waters and soft light. TikTokInstagram

The clear waters make Power Island a great spot for underwater photography, especially near the beaches. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture wildlife. Waterproof gear is advisable for water activities. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Power Island is a fantastic destination for families looking for an adventurous day trip or camping experience. The warm, shallow beaches are perfect for children to play and swim safely. Reddit Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as there are no facilities on the island. TikTok Consider bringing beach toys and flotation devices for extra fun. The hiking trails offer a chance for little explorers to discover nature, though keeping an eye on younger children is important due to the trail maps and island terrain. Reddit

Reaching the island by kayak or a family-friendly boat ride can be an exciting part of the adventure. TikTok 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

For those who love paddling, Power Island is a dream destination. Kayaking across Lake Michigan to reach this uninhabited island is a significant adventure, offering a sense of accomplishment and solitude. TikTok+1 Be prepared for open water conditions and always prioritize safety by checking weather forecasts and paddling with a buddy. Reddit The reward is reaching a pristine natural environment with beautiful beaches and trails to explore. Reddit

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. TikTok 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

Power Island is a photographer's paradise, especially for capturing breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan. TikTokInstagram The western shores offer unobstructed views of the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Instagram The clear waters and natural landscapes provide ample opportunities for landscape, nature, and even underwater photography. TikTok

Aerial shots from drones are also incredibly popular, showcasing the island's beauty from a unique perspective. Instagram 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

Reaching Power Island is an adventure in itself, primarily by boat. Visitors commonly use kayaks, jet skis, and larger vessels to make the journey across West Grand Traverse Bay. TikTok+2 The distance is manageable for experienced paddlers, but it's crucial to be aware of Lake Michigan's unpredictable nature. Conditions can shift rapidly, leading to choppy waters and strong winds, so always check the forecast before setting out. Reddit Some TikToks showcase impressive aerial views, highlighting the island's accessibility for those with seaplanes as well. TikTok

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. Instagram

Island Camping Experience

Power Island offers a rustic camping experience, appealing to those seeking a more natural and secluded getaway. Campsites are available, but amenities are basic, so visitors must come prepared. TikTokReddit Reviews suggest that while some sites are ideal, others might be smaller or have less convenient access to facilities or the water. Reddit Booking in advance is highly advised, particularly if you plan to visit during peak season or on weekends, as spots can fill up quickly. TikTok

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. TikTok Being mindful of fire regulations and leaving no trace are important aspects of enjoying this natural preserve responsibly. Reddit

Exploring Power Island's Natural Beauty

The island boasts over 5 miles of hiking trails, offering a chance to explore its diverse natural landscapes. While the trails are generally not overly strenuous, visitors have noted that the provided maps can be a bit difficult to interpret, so staying aware of your surroundings is key. TikTokReddit The island is also renowned for its beautiful beaches, characterized by warm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxing. Reddit These coves often provide a welcome respite from the wind and boat traffic, making them ideal spots to unwind. Reddit

Beyond the trails and beaches, Power Island is a prime location for capturing stunning photography, especially during sunset. TikTokInstagram The clear waters also lend themselves to underwater exploration. TikTok Whether you're hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenery, the island offers a peaceful escape into nature. TikTok

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