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Established Camping

Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground, near Watersmeet, Michigan, is a fantastic destination for those seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. With spacious, private waterfront sites, it’s perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind by the water.

This campground is known for its serene atmosphere, where visitors often find themselves with plenty of space and privacy. One camper mentioned, “Several sites on the water and all very big,” highlighting the spaciousness that many appreciate. Fishing is a popular activity here, especially for families, with good catches of pan fish that keep the kids entertained.

The campground is open year-round, making it a versatile choice for different seasons. Many campers enjoy the fall colors, with one noting their visit during peak foliage, which added to the beauty of the experience. Facilities include picnic tables and fire rings, ideal for evening gatherings and storytelling under the stars.

For those who love the outdoors, the surrounding Ottawa National Forest offers a wealth of trails and waterways to explore. Whether you’re paddling a canoe or hiking through the woods, there’s no shortage of adventure waiting for you. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat with great fishing and beautiful scenery, Marion Lake Campground is definitely worth a visit.

Location

Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Watersmeet, MI, take US Rt. 2 east 3.9 miles to campground sign. Turn left onto Marion Lake Rd. and go 1.7 miles to another campground sign. Turn right onto Forest Rt. 3985 and go 0.4 miles to campground.

Coordinates

46.26806033 N
89.08639 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 5, 2020

We go back every year

Several sites on the water and all very big, with lots of space and privacy! It’s a quiet campground, I’ve never seen more than 6 sites full! Good fishing and lots of pan fish to make fishing fun for the kids!

  • Review photo of Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground by Lisa A., June 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground by Lisa A., June 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground by Lisa A., June 5, 2020
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2018

Beautiful Campground!

We had a wonderful stay. It was late in the season (last week in September). We pretty much had the campground to ourselves. Temps were cool but that was expected for this time of year. The fall colors were at peak!!

  • Review photo of Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground by Susan F., September 30, 2018
  • Review photo of Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground by Susan F., September 30, 2018
  • Review photo of Ottawa National Forest - Marion Lake Campground by Susan F., September 30, 2018
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Marion Lake Campground located in Michigan?

Marion Lake Campground is located in the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, near the community of Watersmeet. This secluded campground sits on the shores of Marion Lake, offering a peaceful retreat in the northwoods. The campground's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding forest areas, particularly beautiful during fall when the foliage reaches peak colors in late September.

Are there good fishing opportunities at Marion Lake in Watersmeet, MI?

Yes, Marion Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is well-known for its abundant panfish population, making it particularly fun and accessible for children and families. The waterfront campsites provide convenient fishing access directly from your campsite. With the campground's typically low occupancy, anglers can enjoy peaceful fishing experiences without crowds. For the best fishing experience, consider bringing light tackle suitable for panfish.

What amenities are available at Marion Lake Campground?

Marion Lake Campground offers spacious, private campsites with several situated directly on the waterfront. The campground features large sites with plenty of space between them, providing excellent privacy for campers. Some sites include boardwalks leading down to the water, such as site #15. While the campground maintains a rustic atmosphere, it provides the essential amenities needed for a comfortable outdoor experience in a quiet, natural setting that rarely fills to capacity.

What do Marion Lake Campground photos show about the campsite environment?

Photos of Marion Lake Campground reveal spacious, private sites nestled among the northwoods forest with several campsites directly on the waterfront. Images showcase the natural beauty of the area, including waterfront views and dense forest surroundings that provide shade and privacy. Some photos highlight the individual boardwalks that lead from certain sites down to the water's edge. During fall, pictures capture the spectacular peak foliage colors that transform the landscape. The uncrowded setting is evident in most photos, reflecting the campground's quiet and peaceful atmosphere.