Carney Lake State Forest Campground, near Iron Mountain, Michigan, is a peaceful spot that offers a rustic camping experience surrounded by nature. With sites tucked away in the woods and some right by the lake, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

This campground is all about simplicity, featuring picnic tables and fire rings for cozy evenings under the stars. Visitors have noted the tranquility of the area, with one camper mentioning, “We were the only site occupied,” highlighting the seclusion you can find here. The lake is a nice touch, although some have pointed out that it can be a bit rocky and mucky, so water shoes might come in handy.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, there are nearby snowmobile trails and a boat landing for some fun on the water. While the road to get here is a bit bumpy, many campers appreciate the remote beauty of the location. Just remember, it’s a carry-in/carry-out site, so pack out what you bring in. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat with a touch of wilderness, Carney Lake is worth considering for your next camping trip.

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

Carney Lake State Forest Campground

Are you in need of a campground near Norway, MI? Norway is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.

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I would have given it a 3.5 but whole stars are required. We took a chance on driving 1.5 hours to Carney Lake State Campground and we are pleased that we did. The sites were first-come first-serve and we were lucky to get a site on the lake. The downside: the lake was pretty rocky and mucky. If I wouldn’t have forgotten my water shoes I would have been fine. It is a small park with wooded sites. Site #9 looked to be the best one, there was a clear view of the lake and there was a little railing which was almost like a patio or deck. We camped in our popup camper, there was a few 5th wheels and a few tents. Everyone was very friendly. 

Nice,Private Rustic Campground 

Beautiful campground. Secluded and on a beautiful lake.

Beautiful campground away from everything

Close to Iron Mountain but tucked away in the woods enough to be secluded. We stayed during the week and we're the only site occupied. Very peaceful, lake was very nice

Nice sites way back in the woods

Takes about a ten Mile dirt/gravel road in poor condition to get to. This is a carry in/carry out site. Vault toilets, a boat landing, and some nearby snowmobile trails. Nice enough sites, pretty empty when we went on a Monday. Not much in way of activities, no beach or close by trail loops. Nice lake. Very few bugs. Unfortunately many people left trash behind. We didn't find it worth the bumpy long ride in and only stayed a night.

Remote, pretty, dull

Tent camped here on may 30th. Very quiet with some sites right on the lake. About a 7 mile gravel road to get here from the main road. 

Photos of Carney Lake State Forest Campground

Real photos from real campers