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

Big Knob State Forest Campground

We really liked this campground.  We were there in early October and we had the place just about to ourselves.  Right on Lake Michigan, the only sounds you hear are the lake.  The road in is long but well graded.  Most of the sites are only suitable for short trailers but there are a couple that will handle up to 35' or so.

  

There is a nice hiking loop trail right from the campground.  It does not get much use as it's a bit hard to follow but well worth it.

  

We did have cell service but not enough to really do anything with.

Right on lake Michigan

The sites are first come, first serve. Sites are a little small, and are moderately close to other sites. heavily wooded makes it feel cozy. Some sites have "private" trails to the beach, approximately 50-75yrds away. Drinking water is from a hand pump well (no running water or electrical). All that said, even with the closer proximity, it's beautiful here. I'd gladly come back here for a more extended stay. I may have even heard some wolves off in the distance.

Pleased

Nothing like a six mile dirt road to get you off the beaten path!

I lucked upon this spot for my first night in the UP and couldn't have been more stoked. 

Site fees were reasonable, the sunset was epic, and the moonrise was incredible. 

Toilets were also serviced daily and there was lots of hiking in the area!

Beautiful Seclusion!



We stayed at a few places in the upper peninsula, this was the last stop. It’s a nice campground far off the beaten path, about 6 miles of a country road. Vault toilets were pretty clean and there was a path to access the beach. It may have been the site we stayed at (1) but it was the noisiest campground we stayed at. We were by the water pump and the registration so I can’t fully blame the campground. Beach was beautiful and serene. 