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Courtney Lake Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Within Ottawa National Forest, Courtney Lake Campground provides a forested retreat where campers access sites by vehicle, on foot, or via hiking trails. This US Forest Service facility operates from May through October at $22 per night, accommodating everything from tents to RVs up to 111 feet long.

The campground maintains a notably quiet atmosphere throughout most periods. Nite H. found it "very quiet during the week with some campers coming in on the weekend." Sites vary considerably in size and placement, with some positioned directly on the lake waterfront while others sit back in the woods. The access road from the highway comes paved, which distinguishes it from many other forest campgrounds in the region.

Standard amenities include drinking water, restrooms, and a dump station, with facilities positioned centrally for easy access. Campers can bring pets and enjoy campfires at their sites. Cell phone coverage remains spotty at best, creating a genuine disconnect from digital distractions. Mosquitoes can be intense during peak season, particularly around the water areas.

The campground includes an equine section with wide, well-maintained trails for horseback riders. For those exploring the broader area, places to camp near Ottawa National Forest offer additional options. Large sites and minimal crowds make this spot work well for campers seeking space and forest access.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsCourtney Lake Campground is located in Michigan near Nisula

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Ontonagon, Mi., travel east on M-38 for approximately 21 miles to FR 1960. Turn right (South) onto FR 1960 and travel 1 mile to the campground.

Coordinates

46.75235155 N
88.9404464 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 7 users
    Last on 7/6/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 7/6/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 7 users
    Last on 7/6/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 7/6/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Courtney Lake Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

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1 Star

83%
17%
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5.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers frequently mentioned the large, clean sites and peaceful atmosphere as standout features. The reasonable pricing and convenient facilities add to the appeal, though spotty cell service and seasonal mosquitos were noted.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Jun. 28, 2026

Peaceful stay

Pulled in to find well kept campground. Toilets available, but did not use as our camping unit was self-contained. No sites are actually on the water. Many are situated 20-40 feet on hillside above. Heavy tree growth limits view of the lake.

Site9
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 31, 2025

One of my favorites on the Ottawa

Usually fairly quiet. Access road off highway is paved, unlike many other national forest campgrounds. Some sites are very spacious and/or on waterfront.

Mosquitos are terrible in season, but that’s not unexpected for the area.

Site21
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jul. 15, 2024

Very quiet and relaxing

We tented on lot 7 during the second week of June. It was very quiet. I was lucky to find this gem and you will only have spotty phone service at best. My dog had more fun than I did and we did a lot of hiking.

Site7
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Courtney Lake Campground by Robert G., July 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Courtney Lake Campground by Robert G., July 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Courtney Lake Campground by Robert G., July 15, 2024
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 13, 2022

2021 Bear Hunt

Stayed at Courtney lake CG while bear hunting nearby. Very quiet during the week with some campers coming in on the weekend. Water and toilets were available directly across from the campsite. Was a relaxing two weeks with no disturbances. Price was $14/day, but with Senior Pass cost was $7/day. Very reseasonable.

Site14
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Oct. 6, 2021

Awesome camp ground

The sites are large, clean, and quiet. I didn't camp in the equine section, but would love to bring a horse. The trail is well groomed and 5 to 6 ft wide. I will be back, and recommend this place to friends including equine friends.

Site7
Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed May. 6, 2018

Love this place

Out of the way. Very private. Camped all the way in the back with only a few others in the campground. Would definitely be back to tent camp here.

Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Courtney Lake Campground?

Courtney Lake Campground offers basic amenities including water access and toilet facilities. The campground features spacious, clean sites with some located directly on the waterfront. There's an equine section with well-groomed, wide trails (5-6 feet) for horseback riding. The campground is notably quiet and private, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Standard camping fees are approximately $14 per day, with discounted rates available for Senior Pass holders. The access road is paved, unlike many other national forest campgrounds in the area.

How close is Courtney Lake Campground to the Porcupine Mountains?

Courtney Lake Campground is located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, within reasonable driving distance to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The campground serves as a good base for outdoor activities in the region, including bear hunting and hiking. It offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to staying directly in the Porcupine Mountains, while still providing access to the area's natural attractions. The remote setting of Courtney Lake means you'll have limited cell service, creating a true wilderness experience before or after visiting the more popular Porcupine Mountains area.

How do I find photos of Courtney Lake Campground?

To find photos of Courtney Lake Campground, check official U.S. Forest Service websites or recreation.gov where official campground images are typically posted. The Dyrt camping app features user-submitted photos showing actual campsites and facilities. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook often contain tagged photos of the area. Local tourism websites for Michigan's Upper Peninsula may also showcase images of the campground. For the most current visual information, consider joining camping forums or groups focused on Michigan's outdoor destinations where members frequently share recent photos and experiences.