A small warm inland lake defines the character of Ess Lake State Forest Campground, a drive-in site managed by the MIDNR Forest Resources Division outside Hillman, Michigan. The shoreline is grassy with sand below the waterline. Cell service is available, and the campground includes drinking water, toilets, a dump station, picnic tables, and firewood for purchase. RVs are limited to 20 feet. Pets are welcome. Those exploring camping near Atlanta will find this a low-infrastructure option worth considering. Pack accordingly for a rustic lakeside stay.
Description
This rustic campground is located on Ess Lake and offers opportunities for paddling and fishing. There are 27 sites for tent and small trailer use. Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water from a hand-pump well. The campground is located 16 miles northeast of Atlanta via M-33 and County Road 624. Sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsEss Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan near Atlanta
Public CampgroundCoordinates
45.10699788 N
83.9798054 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 1 hr 54 min from Traverse City, MI
- 2 hrs 2 min from Bay City, MI
- 2 hrs 12 min from Saginaw, MI
- 2 hrs 12 min from Midland, MI
