Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground

ORV enthusiasts can ride directly from their campsite at Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground, which sits alongside established off-road vehicle trails in Michigan's Huron National Forest. The rustic campground accommodates RVs up to 40 feet and operates from April through October at $20 per night, with payment collected at the entrance.

The small lake provides a sandy swimming area and calm water conditions that work well for kayaking and canoeing. "Not much for on shore fishing from the camp ground," notes Michael M., though the lake remains undeveloped with no surrounding houses. Vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables serve each site, while a hand pump supplies drinking water and a dumpster handles trash disposal.

Campers often find themselves alone here during weekdays and shoulder seasons. The campground has no electrical hookups or on-site staff, so visitors need generators for power and should prepare for self-sufficient camping. Cell service reaches the area, and the location provides easy road access for those hauling larger rigs.

The combination of lake access and direct trail connections makes this a functional base camp for multi-activity trips. For additional camping options in the region, consider places to camp near Mio about eight miles southeast.

Reservation Info

Sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations.

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Location

Public Campground

Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.75177571 N
84.24078381 W

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Connectivity

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

Connectivity

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

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

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

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Numerous guests pointed out the rustic, quiet setting with basic amenities like vault toilets and water access. Multiple campers commented on direct ORV trail access and peaceful lake activities.

Reviewed Jun. 7, 2023

Good enough

Not much for on shore fishing from the camp ground. But good views and quiet. It does have a dumpster which is nice

Site11
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground by Michael M., June 7, 2023
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2018

Private!

When we went camping here we were the only people here! It was very private and we loved it. There are no lights or hookups so you need to bring a generator for electricity. There also aren't any people working here regularly so make sure you are prepared for anything that might happen. We would definitely stay here again though!

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Sep. 21, 2018

Easy to ride ORVs or dirt bikes from

This rustic campground is right on the ORV route. This means you can camp here and even ride in you Jeep or side by side right from camp.

I stayed here and rode dirt bikes from jere and swam in the lake afterwards. It was refreshing and there is a small sandy area to swim out of.

The lake is very peaceful and quiet. Great for kayaking or canoeing! There are no houses on the small lake and it is typically calm water.

The campground has vault toilets, camp fire rings, and picnic tables. The fee is $15 per night and is paid at the entrance.

There is a water pump here so fresh water is available. There is also a dumpster for your trash.

I will be coming back as it is easy to get to as well.

  • Review photo of Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground by Mike B., September 21, 2018
  • Review photo of Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground by Mike B., September 21, 2018
  • Review photo of Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground by Mike B., September 21, 2018
  • (18) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the max vehicle length at Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground?

Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground allows vehicles up to 40 feet.

Are fires allowed at Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Is there cell phone reception at Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is some coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.