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Genes Pond State Forest Campground

6 ReviewsAdd Review

Fishing enthusiasts will find direct access to Gene's Pond at this rustic state forest campground, where a boat ramp and fishing dock provide easy water entry. Located deep in the forested areas of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the campground operates under the management of MIDNR Wildlife Division from April through October.

The campground features approximately 12-15 sites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Sites sit well-spaced among mature trees, providing natural privacy between camping areas. Two vault toilets serve the campground, and campers can access water through a hand pump system, though several visitors recommend bringing supplemental water supplies. The facility accommodates RVs up to 22 feet in length, though the remote forest setting makes this primarily a destination for tent campers and smaller rigs.

Evening hours bring distinctive sounds from the surrounding wilderness. Maria L. notes that "at night, you can sometimes hear wolves in the distance." During daylight hours, most campers focus on fishing activities, with bluegill commonly caught from the pond. The campground road doubles as a hiking route for those wanting to explore further into the forest.

For campers planning regional trips, Norway Lake Park sits just over a mile to the east. The remote location means bringing firewood and most supplies from town before heading into the woods.

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Location

Public Campground

Genes Pond State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Felch, drive west on M-69 about 1/2 mile to County Road 581. Turn right (north) and proceed about 5 miles to the "Public Access" sign. Turn left (west) and go about one mile to the parking area. Or, drive one mile farther north on County Road 581. From 581, turn left (west) on Leeman Road (County Road 422) and follow the signs.

Coordinates

46.07300076 N
87.866 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the beautiful, private rustic sites and peaceful remote location as major draws. Some feedback indicated water quality issues, though facilities are generally clean and well-maintained.

Amanda M.
Reviewed Oct. 16, 2025

Great for grouse hunters

This is a beautiful, well-kept campground. It is secluded and campsites have a bit of privacy with lots of beautiful trees. It’s a short walk to the lake and the hand pump is convenient for water. Vault toilets are clean and stocked with paper.

Art S.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 18, 2022

A bit far out but quietly beautiful

This campground is pretty far out into the northern woods. That being said, it was a popular place when we stopped by. Almost all the sites were taken. We came in from the west and town is at the start of the drive deeper into the woods. It’s still close enough to get supplies if you need them.

The campground is beautiful and sites have their privacy. Vault toilets are in camp and there’s also one at the boat launch. During the day most folks were out on the water fishing. Other than hanging out in your camp, you could use the road as your hike. Just be careful because there are some tight turns where oncoming cars wouldn’t see you.

This is a peaceful getaway to relax at.

  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Art S., July 18, 2022
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  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Art S., July 18, 2022
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Erin S.
Reviewed Jun. 27, 2022

Awesome little spot!

Beautiful, quiet rustic campsites. Make sure to bring in wood before you get here, seemed to not be anyone selling wood bundles near the area around the campground. All sites were cute little spots that all looked alike. Great for me and my sister to stay for the night while making our way back east! Had the place to ourselves. 2 thumbs up!

Sitesite 2
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Erin S., June 27, 2022
  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Erin S., June 27, 2022
R
Reviewed Jun. 30, 2019

Rustic

Not much at this campground. Water is mucky and no place to swim.

  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Randall J., June 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Randall J., June 30, 2019
Maria L.
Reviewed May. 31, 2018

A nice, remote rustic campground away from everything!

This campground in Felch is a rustic campground, with two outhouses and a water pump for potable water that sits on Gene's Pond. It’s a gorgeous campground, with a boat ramp and fishing dock on the lake. We’ve camped here twice now, and love the remote location — it’s pretty far back in the woods and ideal for anyone who really wants that northern Michigan/remote experience. At night, you can sometimes hear wolves in the distance. We had the campground to ourselves the first time, and th second time there was only one other camper. We tent camped, and while the outhouses were clean, the one nearest our campsite was out of toilet paper. Luckily we had our own. There are only a handful of campsites. Maybe 12 or 15 total? And all of them are well shaded with good privacy, a picnic table, and a fire pit. The only downside to this campground is the horrid water. It comes from a cistern (I imagine) and has a hand pump. The water is awful. Cloudy and foul tasting, stale and full of minerals. The second time we camped there we made sure to bring our own water. The fishing was great in Gene's Pond. My hubby caught some bluegill in the lake that we cooked up for dinner. It’s really a beautiful spot, not far from Felch or Sagola for supplies, and near some great brook trout fishing on the Ford River. We'll definitely go back.

  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Maria L., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Maria L., May 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Genes Pond State Forest Campground by Maria L., May 31, 2018
  • (5) View All
Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fish at Genes Pond State Forest Campground?

Yes, fishing is available at Genes Pond State Forest Campground. The campground features a boat ramp and fishing dock on the lake, making it convenient for anglers to access the water. While some visitors note the water can be somewhat mucky, the pond provides fishing opportunities for campers. Bring your own fishing gear as there are no rental services on-site.

Where is Genes Pond State Forest Campground located?

Genes Pond State Forest Campground is located in Felch, Michigan, nestled deep in the northern woods. The campground sits on the shores of Gene's Pond (also referenced as Carney Lake in some sources). Its remote location offers a peaceful woodland retreat, though it's still close enough to town to access supplies if needed. The campground is accessed by driving through wooded areas, making it feel secluded while still being accessible for visitors.

What amenities are available at Genes Pond State Forest Campground?

Genes Pond State Forest Campground is a rustic facility with minimal amenities. The campground provides two outhouses and a water pump for potable water. There's also a boat ramp and fishing dock on the lake. The campsites are described as quiet, cute, and similar in setup. No electricity, showers, or modern bathroom facilities are available. Visitors should note there doesn't appear to be firewood available for purchase nearby, so it's advisable to bring your own wood when camping here.

Do I need a permit to camp at Genes Pond State Forest Campground?

While specific permit information isn't detailed, as a Michigan State Forest Campground, you'll likely need to register and pay a camping fee upon arrival. Michigan State Forest Campgrounds typically require a Recreation Passport for vehicle entry, which can be purchased with your license plate renewal or at the campground. For the most current permit and fee information, contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or check their official website before your visit.

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