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.
Description
This secluded rustic campground is nestled on Muskrat Lake, a shallow, warm-water lake with excellent opportunities for paddling and fishing. There are 13 sites for tent and small trailer use. Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water from a hand-pump well. The campground is located 12 miles northwest of Mio via M-33 North, West Miller Road, Richardson Road and Muskrat Lake Road.
Reservation Info
Sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundMuskrat Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan
Coordinates
44.75177571 N
84.24078381 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark 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
- 1 hr 24 min from Traverse City, MI
- 1 hr 25 min from Bay City, MI
- 1 hr 35 min from Saginaw, MI
- 1 hr 35 min from Midland, MI








