Map showing campground location near Curran, Michigan

Camper submitted image from McCollum Lake State Forest Campground

McCollum Lake State Forest Campground

Six miles southeast of Curran, McCollum Lake State Forest Campground sits on an open field layout with minimal tree cover between sites. The municipal-managed facility operates year-round and accommodates RVs up to 40 feet with water hookups available. Standard amenities include fire pits, picnic tables, drinking water, and restroom facilities, with ADA accessibility throughout the grounds.

The lake itself draws some visitors, though weedy conditions and limited shoreline access affect the experience. Only one or two campsites provide direct lake access, while the majority sit back from the water. Campers can access the area by vehicle or boat, and pets are welcome throughout the campground. Those exploring the region can find camping spots around Curran for additional options in this part of northern Michigan.

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Location

Public Campground

McCollum Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Directions

From town: Go 6 mi N on Hwy 65, then 2-1/2 mi W on McCollum Lake Rd.

Coordinates

44.77090585 N
83.90072136 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Group

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Water Hookups
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 41 min from Bay City, MI
1 hr 51 min from Saginaw, MI
1 hr 51 min from Midland, MI
1 hr 52 min from Traverse City, MI

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1 Review

Kate K.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 3, 2019

Not What I Expected

I was super excited to visit this place because I heard good things... but I was a bit disappointed. The campground itself is more of an open field and there isn’t much for privacy or even tree cover. The lake was nice but pretty weedy and there were only 1 or two campsites that even had lake access. All the sites had the standard fire pit and picnic table but nothing else very exceptional about this place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at McCollum Lake State Forest Campground?

McCollum Lake State Forest Campground offers basic amenities in a rustic setting. The campground features vault toilets and water pumps for campers. Sites are situated in an open field-like area with limited tree cover and minimal privacy between sites. While the campground sits on McCollum Lake, only one or two campsites have direct lake access. The lake itself is suitable for fishing and paddling, though it does have weedy areas. This is a no-frills, primitive camping experience focused on enjoying Michigan's natural setting rather than extensive facilities.

How do I make a reservation at McCollum Lake State Forest Campground?

McCollum Lake State Forest Campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservation system. To secure a site, arrive early, especially during peak summer weekends. For the most current reservation information, check with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website or call their reservation line. Some Michigan state forest campgrounds have transitioned to the state's central reservation system, so verifying the current booking method before your trip is recommended.

What are the fees for camping at McCollum Lake State Forest Campground?

Camping at McCollum Lake State Forest Campground requires the Michigan Recreation Passport for Michigan residents or a daily entrance fee for non-residents. The camping fee is typically around $13-$17 per night per site, which is standard for Michigan State Forest Campgrounds. Payment is usually made on-site via self-registration envelopes. Contact the Michigan DNR for current fee information before your trip as rates are subject to change.

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