Forest Lake State Forest Campground

Loons calling across the water, sandhill cranes overhead, and osprey circling the reservoir: Forest Lake State Forest Campground runs on wildlife rhythms as much as anything else. The campground sits on an 8-mile reservoir formed by a dam, with several lakefront sites that give direct water access for paddlers and anglers. A boat launch serves the lake, and the surrounding forest provides firewood within reach of camp. Reviewers note the road in is bumpy, so lower-clearance vehicles should approach with care.

Sites are level and come equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. A hand pump provides drinking water on the grounds, and vault toilets handle sanitation. Electric hookups are available for rigs up to 40 feet, though the campground draws a mix of tent campers and RV users. Waterfowl are a consistent presence on the lake, and the tree canopy keeps sites shaded through the season. The campground is a reasonable base for visiting Au Train Falls and reaching Lake Superior beaches within a short drive.

One note worth flagging: a 2025 reviewer mentioned a potential closure as early as June 9, 2025, so confirming current status before the trip is worth the effort. Campers exploring campsites near Chatham will find a handful of alternatives in the area, including Au Train Lake Campground to the north. Keenan sums up the draw simply: "Clean campground with access to the reservoir." If a low-key forested lake camp with dark skies and active wildlife fits your plans, this one delivers on those specifics.