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Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Wooded sites surround multiple lakes in this state forest campground where both drive-in and hike-in camping options provide access to water recreation. The facility sits at the intersection of the North Country Trail and Shore to Shore Trail, offering campers direct access to extensive hiking networks that span the region.

Drive-in sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet and include amenities like drinking water, vault toilets, and picnic tables. For a more remote experience, backpackers can hike approximately three miles to reach waterfront sites on smaller lakes within the forest. Sarah L. notes that these hike-in areas are "so wooded it feels secluded" despite having numerous sites available.

The lakes provide fishing and kayaking opportunities, with campers reporting easy shoreline access from many sites. Trail networks accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with the cross-state horse trail skirting the camping areas. Multiple reviewers mention the area's quiet atmosphere, though recent visitors should be aware of increased tick populations during warmer months.

Campers seeking additional options in the region can explore places to camp near South Boardman. The campground operates year-round, making it accessible for both summer water activities and winter trail use.

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Location

Public Campground

Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

Located 8 miles West of Kalkaska via Island Lake Road and Campground Road.

Coordinates

44.71595459 N
85.32346697 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 15 users
    Last on 4/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 12 users
    Last on 4/10/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 15 users
    Last on 4/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 12 users
    Last on 4/10/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the beautiful lake access and quality waterfront sites in a wooded, secluded setting. Multiple campers commented on solid basic amenities and peaceful atmosphere, though recent feedback noted increased tick populations.

Erin F.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Oct. 19, 2025

Off the beaten path

Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded.

Site23
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Erin F., October 19, 2025
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Erin F., October 19, 2025
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Erin F., October 19, 2025
  • (4) View All
Tom B.
Reviewed Jun. 27, 2022

Best state forest campground I've found.

All the usual stuff, vault toilet, hand pump and a fire ring BUT, the lake is completely uninhibited and great for kayaking and fishing. The NCT 4600mi hiking trail runs through and the cross state horse trail skirts it and bikes are allowed on all trails. I've been here 5 days and seen about half. Too much to write about. Love it.

Site26 and 23
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Tom B., June 27, 2022
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Tom B., June 27, 2022
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Tom B., June 27, 2022
Sarah L.
Reviewed Jul. 30, 2020

Went backpacking

There are 2 campgrounds. One is reservable and drive-in with access to the lake. We decided to backpack about 3 miles in and camp in the rustic hike in sites. Well worth the hike as we got a waterfront site on a smaller lake. Tons of camp sites on all the lakes but so wooded it feels secluded. The site we found still had vault toilets around the corner. The water was beautiful and luckily no mosquitos at the time.

SiteNot numbered
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground by Sarah L., July 30, 2020
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground in Michigan?

Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground can be accessed via a drive-in entrance that leads to the main campground area with lake access. For the more remote sections, you'll need to hike approximately 3 miles on trails to reach the rustic hike-in sites. The North Country Trail (NCT) runs through the campground area, providing additional access points. The cross-state horse trail also skirts the property. For specific directions, contact the Michigan DNR or check their official website before your trip.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Guernsey Lake?

Guernsey Lake offers excellent recreational opportunities centered around its pristine waters. The lake is ideal for kayaking and fishing, with the uninhabited shoreline providing a peaceful paddling experience. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the North Country Trail (NCT) which runs directly through the campground, offering access to the impressive 4,600-mile long-distance route. Mountain biking is permitted on all trails in the area, and horseback riders can enjoy the cross-state horse trail that skirts the property. The multiple lakes and wooded setting create a perfect backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography.

Do I need reservations for Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground?

Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground has two distinct camping areas with different reservation policies. The drive-in campground with lake access is reservable, and securing a spot in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. The rustic hike-in sites located about 3 miles in appear to operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For the most current reservation information and to book sites in the reservable section, contact the Michigan DNR or visit their official reservation portal.

What amenities are available at Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground?

Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground offers basic rustic amenities including vault toilets, hand pump water, and fire rings at each campsite. The campground features two distinct areas: a drive-in section with lake access that's reservable, and more remote hike-in sites approximately 3 miles in that offer waterfront locations on smaller lakes. The wooded setting provides natural privacy between sites, creating a secluded feel despite the number of campsites scattered around the lakes.

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