Managed by the MIDNR Forest Resources Division, Black Lake State Forest Upper ORV Campground sits within the Atlanta State Forest Area as part of a two-section layout alongside the Black Lake State Forest Lower ORV Campground. The upper section is the larger of the two, with sites that multiple reviewers describe as roughly three times the size of those on the lower lakefront side. That extra space means neighbors rarely crowd each other, even on busy weekends. The campground is open year-round and accommodates RVs up to 70 feet with electric hookups available.
Noise is the most polarizing factor here. The upper section is oriented toward ORV use, with trails accessible directly from camp, and reviewers report that generator use and motorized traffic on the internal roads can be constant during peak season. Tent campers in particular have noted the contrast between the well-maintained, forested sites and the after-dark noise level. Those arriving during quieter periods, however, have found the campground nearly empty and the sites genuinely spacious. "Plenty of access to the water as well," notes Katrina M., and the lake's sandy, shallow shoreline is reachable from either section.
Amenities include drinking water, showers, toilets, a dump station, and picnic tables, making this more developed than a typical rustic state forest site. Reservations are accepted. Campers planning a longer stay in the region can find additional options among the campgrounds near Onaway to the south. Arriving on a weekday outside of peak summer weekends gives the best chance of avoiding generator noise.
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
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
You must register your site on line BEFORE setting up camp. AND you must be physically at the park and ready to set up camp. Campsites are not guaranteed until online registration is complete. If you register and are not physically at the location to establish camp, your booking may be cancelled.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBlack Lake State Forest Upper ORV Campground is located in Michigan near Onaway
Public CampgroundDirections
Located 11 miles north of Onaway via M-211, east on Bonz Beach Hwy, north on Co Rd 489, northwest on Black Mt. Rd, and west on Doriva Beach Rd.
Address
2674 Eisens Trail
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Coordinates
45.489741 N
84.262216 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 8 min from Traverse City, MI
- 2 hrs 34 min from Bay City, MI
- 2 hrs 35 min from Midland, MI
- 2 hrs 43 min from Saginaw, MI
