Ross Lake State Forest Campground

Ross Lake: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer) I rate primarily based on desire for at least a moderate wilderness type experience w at least some camp site privacy. Cleanliness and care of campground are also taken into consideration. Overall Rating: 2 Price 2023: $20 Usage during visit: 75% full Site Privacy: No privacy in shallow sites with no shrubbery between sites Site Spacing: Close Site surface: Sand / grass Reservations: No Campground Noise: Quiet during my drive through Road Noise: Maybe a little from low trafficked access road Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: No Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: No Potable Water Available: Hand pump. Generators: I believe they are allowed Bathroom: Clean pit toilets. Showers: No Pull Throughs: A couple Cell Service (AT&T): 2 bars. Setting: Along liane which is not visible from sites. Weather: Warm and clear today. Bugs: I have experienced moderate mosquitoes in the after following a dip in temperatures. With increase in temp, they are becoming a bit more numerous. Solar: Too shady for a fixed roof panel. Host: Yes Rig size: Keep it under 20’ Sites: Only site 10, on a corner offered privacy which is created by the trailer

Sitting about 30-40 feet above a small lake are about 10 small-medium first come, first served campsites. All sites are primitive, with a picnic table and fire ring. No electricity, but we run on solar so are always set with what we need. 

Sites are close-ish together which is perfect for camping with friends, but doesn’t allow for much privacy. Gorgeous deciduous trees made the fall season extra special. Pit toilets are kept clean and well stocked. 

We found this campground after realizing that it was Columbus Day weekend and all the reservable sites along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore were full. This, and a few other state forest campgrounds, had plenty of space. It’s maybe a 20 minute drive back up to Lake Superior, and about the same to Munising where you’ll find groceries, gas, and supplies. 

While it’s an easy walk down to Ross Lake, it’s relatively steep for bringing kayaks or canoes down and up again. Best to use the nearby boat launch. We found the walk along the forest road delightful, but it’s just that, not really a hike.