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Established Camping

Craig Lake State Park Campground

4 Reviews

Description

Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

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Location

Craig Lake State Park Campground is located in Michigan

Directions

Located 44 miles west of Marquette on US 41, and 8 miles west of Van Riper State Park.

Address

851 County Road
Champion, MI 49814

Coordinates

46.59954293 N
88.18602128 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BY

Moose Rapids Campground

48 min away

Squaw Lake State Forest Campground

57 min away

Drive Time

Presented by

2 hrs 59 min from Green Bay, WI
3 hrs 3 min from Wausau, WI
3 hrs 19 min from Appleton, WI
5 hrs 30 min from Traverse City, MI

Connectivity

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VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
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Access

Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Group
Cabins
Yurts

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets
Pets

Contact

General Info

Reservations

+18004472757

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Oli

Traveler

Reviewed Oct. 18, 2024

Good

The Michigan Recreation Passport Solar does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas.

Month of VisitNovember

Rebecca W.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 19, 2021

Heaven

So amazing - I almost want to give this campground one star and discourage people because it is so amazing, and I'm selfish. For someone who GREATLY values hidden gems where you can get really out and remote, this place is a an absolute heavenly oasis.

Access is from 41 turn on the gravel road outside Michigamme coming from the East. Do not recommend coming or going from the access road on the west, can't remember the town/landmark...starts with an N - it's a VERY bumpy road, and my cockiness convinced myself I could do it in my truck, but didn't get very far before I gave in and had to back up aways to be able to turn around. Big boulders in road/trail.

What to expect:

Park and walk/hike/canoe/kayak in. No motors on lake.
First few sites near the boat launch are about 1/4 Mile Walk in and are close to each other. I stayed at Site 8 which is the next accessible site by trail. Follow North Country Trail and turn left at "Sandy Beach Sites" side trail to access the other hike in spots. Beautiful site, small, fire pit, tiny launch spot, so you can get there by boat from the launch. Next site was quite a ways further down. Was there for two nights and no one camped at the sites near me.
Most sites are accessible ONLY by boat. Beautiful quiet lake. Some cabins available to rent. Guessing you need to reserve online.
Here in late July and lake was quite warm, not sure I'd trust it to be swimmers itch free. I suspect it's a shallow lake. Lots of fish from what I hear.
Late July, some mosquitoes. Had my thermacell running and it wasn't bad. I was able to relax in my hammock for a while without any bug spray or the ThermaCELL and was just fine.

North Country Trail skirts the lake and there are additional trails that branch on and off it, including trails that go all the way around.

Beautiful, peaceful, place.

On insta @roaming_rebecky

SiteSite 8

Month of VisitJuly

(6) View All

Mike S.

Guide

Reviewed Feb. 1, 2021

Excellent Escape!

If you're looking for an off-the-grid escape this is it. The hike-in/paddle in camping spots are equipped with a picnic table and a firepit, everything else is up to you. I have been going here yearly for the last 10ys and absolutely love it! The only downside is the fishing has gone downhill the last 3ys, the bass used to bite every cast...

Sitehike in

Month of VisitJune

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Jeff P.

Guide

Reviewed Oct. 9, 2020

Camping in the Wild at its best!

This is my absolute favorite place to camp, hike, kayak, fish, and just get away from it all. If you want seclusion, you can find it here with many remote campsites that are only accessible through the water or overland by hiking the trails in the park.

The park has 2 rustic cabins and 2 yurts for rent that are a fantastic getaway and a great place to take your spouse.

The wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others. The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky.

I CAN’T WAIT TO GO BACK!

(10) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the camping options at Craig Lake State Park?

Craig Lake State Park offers several primitive camping options for those seeking a true wilderness experience. The park features two rustic cabins and two yurts for a more sheltered stay. For traditional camping, there are multiple remote campsites scattered throughout the park, many of which are only accessible by water (kayak/canoe) or by hiking the park's trail system. Each primitive campsite comes equipped with basic amenities including a picnic table and fire pit, but you'll need to bring everything else with you. This is truly an off-grid experience, perfect for those looking to disconnect from civilization.

What do visitors say about their experience at Craig Lake State Park?

Visitors consistently describe Craig Lake State Park as an exceptional wilderness escape. Many consider it their favorite place to camp, hike, kayak, and fish. The park is highly valued for its seclusion and remoteness, making it a perfect destination for those wanting to get away from everyday life. People particularly appreciate the off-the-grid experience and the opportunity for solitude. The park is often referred to as a hidden gem and heavenly oasis by those who visit regularly. Access is via a gravel road off Highway 41, contributing to its remote feel. Some visitors note that while fishing quality has declined over the years, the overall experience remains outstanding.

What scenic views and photo opportunities can I expect at Craig Lake State Park?

Craig Lake State Park offers stunning natural scenery perfect for photography enthusiasts. The pristine lakes provide beautiful reflections during sunrise and sunset, while the surrounding wilderness offers untouched landscapes. Paddling opportunities reveal secluded shorelines and remote islands worth capturing. Wildlife photography opportunities abound with the chance to spot various bird species and mammals in their natural habitat. The changing seasons transform the park dramatically, from vibrant fall colors to serene winter landscapes. For the most dramatic shots, visit the elevated areas of the park that provide panoramic views of the lake systems and surrounding forests.

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