The best camping near Ottawa National Forest

Q: Can you camp anywhere in the Ottawa National Forest?

You cannot camp anywhere in the Ottawa National Forest , but there are designated campgrounds and dispersed camping areas available. The Ottawa National Forest , located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offers a variety of camping options, including developed campgrounds with amenities and dispersed camping in more remote areas. Designated campgrounds include those with facilities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, such as Lake Ottawa Campground and Black River Harbor Campground. For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas of the forest. Dispersed camping means you can set up camp outside of designated campgrounds, but there are still some regulations to follow. You must camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and trails, and you must not camp within 1/4 mile of developed recreation sites. It's always a good idea to check with the Ottawa National Forest for any specific regulations or restrictions before heading out.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ottawa National Forest adventure.

86% (7 reviews)

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Ottawa National Forest

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Ottawa National Forest

Langford Lake Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

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Moosehead Lake Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Pomeroy Lake Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Golden Lake Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Norway Lake Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Courtney Lake Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Marion Lake Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Ottawa National Forest

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Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

50 sites In Ottawa National Forest

Bobcat Lake Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Henry Lake Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Blockhouse Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Lake Ottawa Recreation Area

32 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Paint River Forks Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Lake Ste Kathryn Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Perch Lake Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Sparrow Rapids Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Bob Lake Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Imp Lake Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Marion Lake Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Trap Hills Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Ottawa National Forest

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Burned Dam Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Ottawa National Forest

Sturgeon River Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

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Robbins Pond Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Ottawa National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Ottawa National Forest

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River's Edge Adventure Company

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Mercer, WI

River's Edge is a four season adventure company in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, outfitting adventurers with equipment and guidance. The property is located on the Manitowish River, Heart of Vilas County bike trail, and Iron County snowmobile trails. Campsites are located on the west end of the property, in proximity to all the activities, and include full hookups, a picnic table and fire ring. Bathroom is available for campers, however there is no shower. Campers get a discount on rental equipment.

96%

(12)

Secluded Lake Superior Camping

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · White Pine, MI

Located on a private Lake Superior beach just 4 miles from The Porcupine Mountains State Park. This is the perfect base camp for adventures in the Porkies or North Country trail. Enjoy your time walking the beach, swimming in the big lake and watching the sunsets. This is a rustic campsite. The pad for a small camper is 30’x 28’. Plenty of space near beach for tents.

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(71)

Gentle Breeze Camping

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Toivola, MI

This is a private campground on Sandy Lake. Very quiet, private dock, sandy beach, great for fishing, kayaking or just relaxing. ATV's by approval, there will be no loud ATV's, no running ATV's other then entry and exit, if there are complaints from other campers you will be asked to leave New this year is a sauna with shower, this is an electric sauna , use will be by donation. Sauna is not part of base fee, additional cost for sauna Learn more about this land: Open fields and woods with lake access. There is a private dock with swimming, great for kayaking There is a near by public fishing site, 3 miles from General store from other lakes nearby with public access as well. We look forward to hosting you! We are located in Twin Lakes Michigan , 2.3miles south of M-26 on 29839 Pike Lake Road Very private setting There is no electricity on site Campers responsible for garbage removal There is now a outhouse toilet on site Enjoy the relief! There is a limit of 2 dogs per site, Dogs to be on leash if not friendly to people or other dogs IN PREVIOUS YEARS I OFFERED A FREE SITE IF YOU BOOKED 2 SITES THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE

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Superior Lake Effect

1 site · RV, Tent8 acres · Ontonagon, MI

Happy almost fall campers! So many views and so little time here in the western Upper Peninsula. Fall colors expected to peak first weekend October (as of 9/30/24)! Check out Porkies State Park chairlift rides 10/5, 6 and 12. 10 to 430 ET each day, 10$ plus recreational passport. Copper Peak also offers amazing views of fall colors. Open daily from 930-430 CT, check out copperpeak.net for pricing and details. Enjoy 400 ft of Lake Superior private sandy beach frontage with access to more than 1.5 miles., Beautiful sunsets, and a chance to witness the northern lights, in your private dark sky park; bring your telescope. Search for agates and yooper rocks; bring a black light. Situated on 8 acres of old growth forest, your short walk to the lake is through a park like preserve. Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you cross the boardwalk to the beach. Bring your kayak and or paddle board for a unique experience. A boat launch 1/2 mile away can easily accommodate 16 ft motor boats if fishing is of interest. Enjoy waterfalls? Bond, Agate, Bonanza, and O Kun-de kun and many more are all within an hour. ATV trails are abundant as well and all county roads allow both ATV and snowmobile traffic, with appropriate permits.

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Simplicity @Top Of The Hill Huskies

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Eagle River, WI

Welcome to our secluded glamping retreat nestled just outside the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest! Experience the ultimate in privacy and tranquility as you unwind in nature's embrace. Surrounded by miles of scenic trails, our retreat is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or wildlife watching, you'll find endless opportunities to explore the beauty of the surrounding forest. From the comfort of your accommodation, you can marvel at the wonders of nature unfolding outside your window. Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, birds, and even black bears as they roam freely in their natural habitat. Venture beyond our retreat and discover the breathtaking sights of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, where waterfalls, sandy beaches, and lush landscapes await exploration. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our glamping retreat offers the perfect setting for a memorable outdoor getaway. Come experience the beauty and serenity of northern Wisconsin's wilderness with us!

94%

(9)

The Hoegger Hideaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Three Lakes, WI

2 acre property on the edge of the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest with a mini aframe and a historic aframe barn soon to renovated! Property is perfect for your tent, hammock, camper van or RV (boondocking). You will have the entire property to yourself. ***Aframes are not offered as lodging at this time. This property is for dispersed tent camping, camper van, small pop-up camper, rooftop tent camping, small RV, etc. Fire pit, woodshed, privy, chairs, picnic table and composter on property. Canoe and kayak available for you to use at the many nearby lakes! Beautiful hiking trails nearby.

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Presque Isle Campground

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Presque Isle, WI

Our quiet, secluded campground is located on beautiful Stateline Lake deep within the northwoods in Presque Isle (A.K.A. Wisconsin's Last Wilderness) We offer premier full hookup RV campsites and tent campsites as well as cabin lodging and RV lodging - all right on the lake. Amenities include: - Campers and Cabins available to rent - Docks and private boat slips available to rent - Full hookups available - 30 Amp electrical with 50 Amp available on select sites - Women's and Men's Showers - Two sets of women's and men's restrooms - Boat landing access included - For non-guests, boat landing day access can be purchased separately - Wilderness - Wildlife - Fishing - Privacy - Seclusion - Peace and quiet The campground has been in operation for more than 50 years and is in the forest on a peninsula between two lakes with plenty of shade. Fish, boat, waterski, relax by the fire, and enjoy nature and the spectacular wildlife in this gorgeous natural paradise. Address: 8458 Balsam Dr, Presque Isle, WI 54557 Innumerable beautiful hiking and nature walks surround our site, including Wisconsin's treasured Van Vliet 400 acre Hemlock Preserve - one of the largest old-growth Hemlock forests in the country. We are just one hour south of the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park. Docking is included for campers and available for non-campers at a daily rate. Our site is situated on one of the most prized lakes for muskie fishing. Enjoy sunny days swimming at the lake beach, activities and crafts for children with our camp hosts, and community campfire song night.

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Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort

1 site · RV215 acres · Land O'lakes, WI

www.NatureRVResort.com Big Rig Friendly RV Resort with full hookups at every site. The Land O’ Lakes Nature RV Resort is not a typical campground. The vision is to create an exclusive escape for adults (25+) only. Tranquil privacy and a relaxing atmosphere. Escape from the ordinary! 215-acres with miles of nature trails, beautiful views from two observation towers, and kayaking in Blue Diamond Lake. We do not have public bathrooms and showers. Self-contained RVs only. Thank you!

96%

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Da Sugarbush on Stanley Lake

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Iron River, MI

You'll be camping on our Stanley lake sugarbush property. Lakefront sites have power and water - are located in a grassy clearing on the shores of Stanley Lake. ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES ON PROPERTY!! Primitive sites are amongst the maple trees of our sugarbush operation, within walking distance of the lake. These sites do not yet have water or electricity, but water is available from spigots at the lake clearing. Stanley lake is just shy of 400 acres, known for walleye and bass. It is an all sports lake with no limited wake hours. Feel free to roam our woods - you will notice the blue maple lines come to an end at our east and west property lines, as well as a no trespassing sign on the lake clearing to the west line. Deer here are plentiful, and you can often get them to eat from your hand, provided you have apples. Iron county has a tremendous ORV/snowmobile trail system. You can drive your machine right from our property to the trails. There are two golf courses in the area, as well as a vast bicycle trail system. Ski Brule ski hills and sporting clay operation are a few miles from the property. Countless acres of public land for recreation!

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Rockhound Hideaway on Black River

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Bessemer, MI

An outdoor enthusiasts dream awaits at Rockhound Hideaway, with opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, boating and everything in between. The property is situated on a two acre lot with three other rentals on the edge of the Ottawa National Forest, with my full time residence just a few doors away. Rockhound Hideaway is a short walk to Black River Harbor and Lake Superior, the North Country Trail, the scenic and wild Black River, and so many great outdoor adventures. The Black River is accessible from the property for those adventurous enough for a steep walk down the back of the property, or accessible from one of five parking areas along the stretch of road surrounding the property. Lake Superior is located 1 mile north up the road. Perfect for adventure seekers looking for a comfortable place to lay their head after a day exploring hiking trails, waterfalls, skiing, snowshoeing, and all the natural beauty the Ottawa National Forest has to offer. The property offers guests private space at each site, each site with its own charcoal grill, BYO charcoal, hammock, and fire ring. I provide 1 bundle of firewood per visit and more firewood is available at the common area for $5 per bundle. The restrooms for the property is a two stall outhouse for all guests to share located next to the common, which features a roofed sun room with picnic table, lounging area and fire pit. The common area, Kitchigami Commons is there for all guests to enjoy the outdoors in a different setting or enjoy the outdoors when it's raining. It has a fire pit, playing cards, yard games and two lake tubes for guests to take out and enjoy on the lake. This is also where I keep extra firewood and extra drinking water when the temps are above freezing. Please help yourself to the lake tubes, just return them to the Commons when you are done. There is a path from each site to the common area and outhouse. Kitchigami Commons is also where we cook down sap and turn it into maple syrup during the spring time maple season. I am still making improvements to the Commons to provide a more enjoyable shared space, but you are welcome to use it, explore it and access the floaties and games. Please just be aware I may be present there and actively working on improvements, though I keep anything loud limited to when guests aren't present.

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Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

3 sites · Tents60 acres · Ontonagon, MI

Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.

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Pure Air Paradise

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents19 acres · Ontonagon, MI

Pure Air Paradise is your destination for year round fun in the beautiful Upper Peninsula. The property offers a mobile home, 5th wheel camper, 2 camp sites on 19 acres along a state highway. This property features a large loop driveway, small pond and private walking trails. Located 6 miles from Lake Superior and a short drive to the Porcupine Mountains, Adventure Mine and many other attractions.

The best camping near Ottawa National Forest guide

Overview

About

Everyday is the best day ever at Ottowa National Forest, a great place for seasoned adventurers and families alike. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness will please advance kayakers and canoers, while those with little ones can head to Lake Ottawa Recreation area for forested trails, picnicking spots and a swimming beach. Spy everything from wildflowers to black bears on the trails, and have that camera ready incase you see somethin' good. And in the cooler months? Leaf peeping and snowshoeing will make you glad you came to Ottawa when the crowds die down post summer. There’s something special about this place, experience Ottawa firsthand and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp anywhere in the Ottawa National Forest?

You cannot camp anywhere in the Ottawa National Forest, but there are designated campgrounds and dispersed camping areas available. The Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offers a variety of camping options, including developed campgrounds with amenities and dispersed camping in more remote areas.

Designated campgrounds include those with facilities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms, such as Lake Ottawa Campground and Black River Harbor Campground.

For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas of the forest. Dispersed camping means you can set up camp outside of designated campgrounds, but there are still some regulations to follow. You must camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and trails, and you must not camp within 1/4 mile of developed recreation sites. It's always a good idea to check with the Ottawa National Forest for any specific regulations or restrictions before heading out.