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/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

Perch Lake State Forest Campground

This is one of many small primitive campgrounds located in the state forest of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. All 35 sites are on a first-come, first-serve basis with a self-pay registration station. There are no utilities at individual campsites but vault toilets and potable water is on site. The park seems to draw people who like to fish in Perch Lake which has a boat launch conveniently located in the campground.  We were surprised how quiet it was for the time of year we were there in the summer. Many sites were empty albeit we were there for just two nights during the week.  Some of the sites (especially those overlooking the lake) are beautiful and quite relaxing. Tall trees offered nice shade as we experienced some warm days while in the area. This is a really nice place if you are in the area and want to get away from crowds. This campground was a total contrast to the nearby Lake Muskallonge State Park which was crazy busy with lots of sites and tons of people.  There are many gravel/dirt roads leading in the area and is big for people traveling in ORV.

Peaceful Campground on Lake

We had originally traveled out to this lake only to take out our paddle boards out but ended up liking it a ton! The campground is very unique because most of it is elevated above the lake. A few sites include stairs that come down for lake access. There is also a public access site for boats and smaller watercraft, as well as some hiking trails. The weather wasn’t the best when we were there but we had the place pretty much to ourselves so it was worth it. 