Boating and fishing draw campers to Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground, where most sites sit directly on the water with a four-foot breakwall between the campsite and the lake. Anchoring a boat in front of your site is possible, and ramps provide easy water access. The campground runs from May 1 through Labor Day and accepts reservations, which makes sense for anyone targeting the waterfront spots. A bait and convenience store sits across from the entrance, a practical detail for anglers who forget supplies.
The forested setting keeps things low-key. Reviewers consistently mention the quietness, and the lakeview sites draw particular attention, though they tend to go quickly. Tick activity has been noted by at least one visitor, so precautions are worth taking. The beach area has been subject to high water levels, which can affect its usability depending on conditions. Wildlife viewing rounds out the activity options, though the campground is not well-positioned for mountain biking.
Big Bear Point State Forest Campground sits less than half a mile west, giving campers a nearby alternative if sites here are full. Hog Island State Forest Campground and Birchdale Property are additional options in the broader area for those planning a longer stay or exploring places to camp near Johannesburg. With full hookups up to 40 feet and ADA accessibility, Big Bear Lake works well for RV campers who want water access without sacrificing utility connections.
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
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBig Bear Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan near Johannesburg
Directions
Located 1.5 miles SW of Vienna Corners by Principal Meridian Rd and Little Bear Lake Rd.
Coordinates
44.94533488 N
84.38052075 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
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 22 min from Traverse City, MI
- 1 hr 51 min from Midland, MI
- 1 hr 51 min from Bay City, MI
- 2 hrs 1 min from Saginaw, MI











