Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest

A rustic state forest campground with basic amenities, Anderson Lake West operates on a smaller scale than in previous years due to budget reductions. The site provides vault toilets, a hand pump for water, and a boat launch for lake access, though campers should note the limited beach area along Anderson Lake.

Located within the Gwinn State Forest system, the campground sits roughly four miles from town conveniences including gas and food options. An interpretive nature trail created by an Eagle Scout project offers educational hiking opportunities, while additional trails extend throughout the surrounding forest. With no electrical hookups and a focus on primitive camping, this spot works well for campers comfortable with basic facilities who want lake access and trail proximity. For more options in the area, see campgrounds near Gwinn.

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Location

Public Campground

Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

46.22600046 N
87.4930004 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 3/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 3/18/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

A rustic state forest campground offering basic facilities and good fishing opportunities. Campers appreciated the natural setting and hiking trails, though some found amenities limited and the beach area lacking.

Reviewed Apr. 23, 2022

Nice. Quiet. Isolated.

The campground has been down sized due to budget cuts I would guess but is usually a good spot. Loads of hiking trails and an interpretive nature trail created years ago by an Eagle Scout. Has a pump for water. No power. Has bathrooms and a boat launch. 👍

Site5
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Jun. 30, 2019

Great “one nighter”

Ok campground. Not much of a beach. Very rustic. Only a 4 mile drive to gas/ convenience store. Try out the pizza at Rodney’s when you pull thru gwinn it’s delish!

  • Review photo of Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest by Randall J., June 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest by Randall J., June 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest by Randall J., June 30, 2019
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fires allowed at Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Anderson Lake West - Gwinn State Forest?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is some coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.