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Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

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.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsBig Bear Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan near Johannesburg

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

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

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites 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


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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground

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4.0

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4 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the quiet waterfront setting with good-sized sites directly on Bear Lake. Several reviews noted convenient access to local hiking and water activities, though some mentioned limited biking options nearby.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed May. 13, 2024

State forest campground on Bear Lake

A rustic campground right on Bear Lake. Most sites are directly on the water. There is a 4 foot breakwall between the sites and the lake. You could anchor your boat in front of your campsite.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jun. 20, 2021

Big Bear Lake

This was a nice and quiet spot, but not much to do in the area. The lake has a beach, but it has been covered by water and the water is kinda gross looking, but we still got in. There are some nice trails nearby, but nowhere close to ride your bike. The Lakeview spots are nice (we didn't have one). There seem to be a lot of ticks. It was a nice place, but wouldn't visit again.

Site21
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground by Melissa B., June 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground by Melissa B., June 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground by Melissa B., June 20, 2021
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground in Michigan?

Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground offers rustic accommodations with good-sized campsites, some of which feature split rail fencing. Many sites are located directly on the water with ramps providing access to the lake. A convenient bait and general store is located across from the campground entrance. The campground has a reservation system for certain sites, while others may be first-come, first-served. Basic facilities are typical of Michigan state forest campgrounds, so expect vault toilets and hand pumps for water rather than full hookups or shower facilities.

Are there photos or reviews available for Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground?

Photos and information about Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground are available on various camping platforms including The Dyrt, which features campground images and detailed information. You can find visual content showing the lakefront sites, the characteristic 4-foot breakwall separating campsites from the water, and the beautiful sunset views the campground is known for. For the most current photos and information, check official Michigan DNR websites or contact the campground directly. Visual resources can help you select preferred sites, especially those with direct lake views.

How is Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground different from Big Bear Point State Forest Campground?

Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground is situated directly on Bear Lake with many waterfront sites separated from the lake by a 4-foot breakwall. It features a reservation system for some sites and is known for its quiet atmosphere and amazing sunset views. The campground serves as a good hub for exploring local hiking trails and activities in the surrounding area. While both campgrounds are in the same region, Big Bear Lake offers more direct water access with sites that allow you to anchor your boat right in front of your campsite.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Big Bear Lake in Gaylord, MI?

At Big Bear Lake, you can enjoy water-based activities like fishing, swimming, and boating, with the option to anchor your boat directly in front of lakefront campsites. The lake offers beautiful sunset views that are particularly spectacular. Nearby hiking trails provide opportunities for nature exploration, though the immediate area has limited biking routes. The campground serves as a good base for exploring broader recreational activities in the Gaylord region. While the lake has a beach area, water levels can sometimes affect its usability.