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Activities
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Camping

Established Camping

South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground

South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground, near Melstrand, Michigan, is a peaceful spot that invites you to unwind in nature. With its secluded sites surrounded by dense forest and a beautiful lake, it’s perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

This campground offers a rustic experience with basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, allowing you to enjoy campfires under the stars. Visitors have praised the privacy of the sites, with some even right on the water, providing stunning views and a serene atmosphere. One camper noted, “The ambience is amazing. We fell asleep to the sound of Loons over the water.”

For those looking to explore, the campground is conveniently located near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, making it an excellent base for hiking and sightseeing. The access roads can be a bit rough, but many have managed just fine with standard vehicles, so don’t let that deter you.

While the facilities are minimal, with no showers or electric hookups, the tranquility and natural beauty make up for it. Campers have mentioned that it’s a great way to enjoy car camping without the crowds found at more popular sites. If you’re after a quiet retreat in the woods, South Gemini Lake is definitely worth considering.

Description

State Park

Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

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Location

South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

Located 5 mi E of Melstrand.

Coordinates

46.48069046 N
86.304449 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

11 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 16, 2022

wonderful

unable to find a site at Pictured Rocks we were directed to this state forest campground. it was our first stay at a SF campground in Michigan and since we have sought them out and stayed in many. gorgeous lake surrounded by dense forest. sites are secluded, some are on the lake. perfect place if you’re looking to get away from it all. we were there in September after labor day only one other site was occupied.

Site?
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2021

Rustic camping near pictured rocks

We stayed here mid week in August to see pictured rocks. Campground has 8 sites and is first come first served. There were 2 sites open when we arrived about 3 pm; filled up by evening. From talking to the locals we met on the back roads, this campground and the others nearby are becoming more popular. We stayed at site 6 which is on the inside of the loop not lakeside. There are 2 lakeside sites that have great views but the rest are fairly private and flat. The hand pump well is quite sandy so bring bottled water. The best road in is down Twin Lakes Truck Trail off H-58. The roads are dirt/sand and some of the other routes are best with 4x4 but we did fine with our minivan and dry conditions. Nice location to pictured rocks and no fuss camping with quiet neighbors and lake views.

Site6
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed May. 21, 2021

Beautiful, quiet, secluded

The road that the GPS told us to go down was closed but if you follow the sign posts they'll take you the right way. The sites offer privacy and beautiful lakeside views under canopies of trees. The toilets are minimalist but fine. The ambience is amazing. We fell asleep to the sound of Loons over the water. I would definitely stay here again.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Katie M., May 21, 2021
  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Katie M., May 21, 2021
  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Katie M., May 21, 2021
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2019

Peaceful sites by a very pretty lake

This place is very quiet with good separation between sites and lots of trees. The sites on the water are stunning but the sites on the other side are more standard (but still nice). This was a great way to car camp near pictured rocks without dealing with the closer campsites that are booked well in advance.

  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Shelagh R., August 26, 2019
  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Shelagh R., August 26, 2019
Reviewed May. 28, 2019

Memorial Day weekend camping trip

Camped here over Memorial Day weekend and had a great time! The campsite itself was pretty nice, and I was right next to the lake. The campsites are close to each other though so if you’re looking for something where you don’t have close neighbors I would recommend somewhere else.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2018

Tiny little gem!

This campsite was awesome! We camped right on the lake and due to how small the campsite is (only about 8 sites max). No reservations. You self-register when you arrive. The campsites were nice and flat, not too many trees but most provided and amazing view of the lake.

  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Magy C., October 15, 2018
  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Magy C., October 15, 2018
  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Magy C., October 15, 2018
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Aug. 21, 2018

loved it!

its in the middle of nowhere, on a lake, super freaking beautiful and theres hardly many people around. i cant wait to go back honestly. vault toilets & no showers, no electric either. super rustic, and honestly lovely.

Reviewed May. 8, 2017

Quiet and clean

Spent a quick overnight with the family - it was peaceful and beautiful. It was full, but still quiet.

  • Review photo of South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground by Sally H., May 8, 2017
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2016

site on the water

We did some hiking here and were pleased with the park and campground. I think tent camping would be ideal here, but we did see one small trailer. It is a small campground which meant it was very quiet mid-week. There were a couple boats that launched while we were there, but not a whole lot of other activity. We always appreciate shaded, water front sites and these were great. About a 45 minute drive to Munising. We took the cruise to check out pictured rocks and it was amazing- recommend that as well as the campground :)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground?

    Camping at South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground can starts at $15.00.

  • Are fires allowed at South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground?

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

  • Is there cell phone reception at South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is unknown.