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Map showing campground location near Rose City, Michigan
Camper submitted image from Ambrose Lake State Forest CampgroundView 20 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near Rose City, Michigan

Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground

8 ReviewsAdd Review

Part of Michigan's state forest system, Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground operates as a rustic, first-come-first-served facility that draws ORV enthusiasts and lake-access campers to the West Branch area. The campground features large, well-separated sites with fire pits and picnic tables, though grates are not provided for cooking.

Several lakefront sites offer direct water access and views across Ambrose Lake, which supports kayaking, paddleboarding, and bluegill fishing. The lake remains small enough for easy paddling but has areas of sand mixed with murky water. A public boat launch serves both campers and day visitors. Most sites provide good tree coverage, though gypsy moth damage has affected portions of the forest canopy.

ORV trails connect directly to campsites, making this a popular base for off-road riding. The trailhead sits roughly an eighth-mile from the main camping area. Zack L. notes the campground is "fairly large" with "relatively clean toilets and a water pump." Vault toilets and a hand-pump well provide the only facilities—no showers or dump stations operate here.

Deer frequently visit campsites, particularly in early morning hours. Mosquito activity can be heavy during summer months. The campground accommodates RVs up to 40 feet and stays open year-round, though winter access may require four-wheel drive depending on snow conditions.

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Map & DirectionsAmbrose Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan near Rose City

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From town: Go 11 mi N on CR 15 & CR 20.

Coordinates

44.40718877 N
84.25550318 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/30/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/30/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

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

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time

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Reviews8 Camper Reviews - Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground

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5.0

out of 5

8 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the spacious, tree-covered sites and rustic setting with vault toilets and water access. Numerous guests pointed out excellent ORV trail access and lakefront camping options, though some noted mosquito issues and loud trail noise.

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2021

Spacious

Spacious, pit toilets, no dump. The lake looks nice, but the campground is very buggy. So many mosquitos it is hard to sit outside. Many ORV trails, but they are also very loud.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 20, 2021

Nice campground close to home

Nice rustic campground located just north of west branch. No showers, privy is is decent shape. Not the worst not the best. Several lake front sites to choose from with excellent views. There is a public boat launch here. There is an ORV trailhead here as well so the majority of the campers here are off road enthusiasts. Sad to to see the gypsy moths have decimated a majority of the trees in this campground.

Site17
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by Corey O., June 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by Corey O., June 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by Corey O., June 20, 2021
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jul. 5, 2020

Hidden Inland Lake Gem

Rustic first come first serve sites. Well water pump and vault toilets. No shower. We started on spot 8 but moved to 21 after one night - 8 was near the toilets and you get the occasion whiff of poop while 21 is on lake and more secluded. All the spots are very large with picnic table and fire pit. No grate for cooking so be sure to pack. The lake is small but good for kayak & paddle boarding. Areas of sand but fairly murky. We swam and floated for a few hours in tubes. My friend did catch a handful of bluegill.

  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by D G., July 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by D G., July 5, 2020
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by D G., July 5, 2020
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2019

Wonderful

We love the spacious lot sizes and the ones right on the lake are perfect. Rustic, so there is that, but absolutely relaxing. ORV friendly.

  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by Kelly G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by Kelly G., July 25, 2019
  • Review photo of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground by Kelly G., July 25, 2019
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2019

ORV Site

Fairly large state forest rustic campground, relatively clean toilets and a water pump. There are a few sites on the lake and a boat launch. Sites have tables, pits and trees. They are also well separated with trees. Pretty easy access to the campground and the place was clean. The trailhead is maybe 1/8th of a mile down the only road in and trails were fun on the bike. I’ve also woken up to families of deer feeding in the sites next to me more than once.

Showing results 1-8 of 8 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground?

Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground is a rustic facility with spacious, well-separated sites that include picnic tables and fire pits. The campground offers vault toilets (pit toilets) that are maintained in decent condition and a well water pump for drinking water. There are no showers or dump stations available. Some sites are located directly on the lake with excellent views, while others are set back in wooded areas. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. A public boat launch is available for water access.

Are there photos available of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground?

Yes, photos of Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground are available online through various camping websites and forums. These images typically showcase the lakefront sites with their stunning views, the wooded camping areas, and the natural beauty of the surroundings. Some photos highlight the fall colors, which are particularly impressive at this location. To find the most current photos, check official Michigan State Forest websites or popular camping platforms.

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Ambrose Lake?

Ambrose Lake offers numerous recreational opportunities for visitors. The lake itself is perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling, with a public boat launch available for easy water access. The area is particularly popular with ORV enthusiasts, featuring multiple trails with direct access from the campground. Hiking is available with a trailhead located at the campground. During fall, the stunning foliage creates an ideal setting for photography and nature appreciation. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound in the forested surroundings. The spacious sites also provide ample room for campsite activities.

How do visitors rate their experience at Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground?

Visitors consistently rate Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground very highly, with most giving it 4 or 5 stars. Campers particularly appreciate the spacious, well-separated sites, especially those situated directly on the lake. The rustic nature of the campground appeals to those seeking a more natural experience. Many mention it as a favorite camping destination they return to regularly. The only common drawback mentioned is the abundance of mosquitoes during certain times, which can make sitting outside challenging.

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