ONTONAGON, MI - Rules for the increasingly popular backcountry camping at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park are getting a little stricter.

Even though getting a spot at the sprawling Upper Peninsula park that hugs the shore of Lake Superior might be a little tougher now, the goal behind the new rules is to keep the camping experience peaceful for those who do snag a spot.

The Michigan Depart of Natural Resources announced this week it will limit the number of designated backcountry campsites available at the park to 63 each night.

Annually, the number of park visitors has grown to more than 300,000 people.

In the past, backcountry campsites were offered first-come, first-served. Campers could set up off-trail, and there were no limits.

But overcrowding has begun to overshadow the solitude most wilderness campers are seeking, the DNR said.

"In recent years, we have had several nights that exceeded our capacity. We are now requiring campers to stay at designated campsites and we are limiting the number of registered campsites to 63 per night to protect the backcountry experience for all," said Michael Knack, park supervisor.

"Campers can now make a reservation for campsites and all backcountry campers will be required to camp on the specific backcountry campsite or campsites they have registered for."

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park has more than 60 waterfalls. One of the show stoppers is the magnificent Manabezho Falls, which cascades over the Presque Isle River. (Michigan Department of Natural Resources photo)

The Porkies' 60,000 acres of wilderness - including old-growth forests and stunning views - make it a big draw for those seeking some quiet time in Michigan's largest state park.

Each of its backcountry sites are numbered and come with a metal fire ring. The cost to camp for one night is $15 for 1-6 people. The maximum number of campers per site is six.

"Reservations are strongly encouraged given popularity of the park's backcountry and the number of available campsites," said Bob Wild, a park interpreter there. "We will most likely fill-up several nights this season."

Backcountry camping reservations are available six months in advance for May 15 through Oct. 15 at www.midnrreservations.com or by calling 1-800-44PARKS.

The remainder of the year is local sale only at the park.

An online reservation is not a backcountry camping permit.

Backcountry campers will need to visit one of three check stations when they arrive at the park to be issued their backcountry camping permit. Self-registration at the park is no longer offered.

Check-in is required at the park year-round to obtain a camping permit. After-hours arrival requires next day check-in prior to entering the backcountry.

Check-in hours and locations include (all times listed are Eastern Time Zone):