Within Hiawatha National Forest, Soldier Lake provides drive-in and walk-in camping on a loop road that circles the lake. This US Forest Service campground operates from late May through September, accommodating RVs up to 75 feet alongside tent campers on spacious, wooded sites.
The campground's layout places many sites within view of the water, with some located just yards from the shoreline. Campers can launch kayaks and canoes directly from several lakeside sites, while small beach areas offer swimming access around the lake's perimeter. A separate picnic area sits across the water from the main camping loop. Pat H. notes that "water is easily available from most sites, along with pit toilets which were very clean."
Sites feature fire rings with most separated by trees for privacy. The campground maintains pit toilets and provides drinking water, with firewood available for purchase. Camp hosts maintain the facilities and grounds throughout the season. Wildlife sightings include deer, grouse, and occasional bear sign in the area.
Access involves rough forest roads that may challenge some vehicles. The $24 nightly fee includes basic amenities without hookups, making this a good match for campers seeking lake access and larger sites in a forested setting. Those wanting more camping near Eckerman can explore additional options in the broader region.
Description
Overview
A quiet, relaxing campground with campsites nestled in the pines surrounding Soldier Lake in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The campground provides a feeling of remoteness but is still close to roads that lead to some of the best sightseeing the area has to offer.
Recreation
Non-motorized boating is allowed on Soldier Lake. Swimming is also a popular activity. Two sandy beaches are found within the campground and day use areas. The North Country National Scenic Trail, which winds through several northern states, can be accessed from the day use area.
Facilities
The rustic campground offers shaded single-family sites for tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with a table and a campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. No hookups are available. The campground also has two large day-use picnic areas with tables and grills. A sheltered picnic area is equipped with a fireplace. The picnic area has vault toilets and drinking water.
Natural Features
The campground surrounds 15-acre Soldier Lake. A scenic forest of pine, aspen and maple trees covers the area.
Nearby Attractions
The closest town is Strongs, 7 miles west. Services available include a fuel station, restaurants, and a general store.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (906) 379-5791.
Charges & Cancellations
Please cancel 7 days in advance for reservation sites. Reservation sites cannot be transferred to walk-in sites.
Fee Info
Check-in time is anytime after 2 pm. Early arrivals will be charged for the previous day.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSoldier Lake is located in Michigan
Directions
23998 M-28 Raco Michigan 49715 From Sault Ste. Marie, take I-75 approximately 8 miles south to Exit 386. Turn right onto M-28 and travel 21.5 miles west to Forest Road 3138. Turn left and continue less than a mile to the campground.
Coordinates
46.3505556 N
84.8683333 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 3/28/26- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 3/28/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 52 min from Traverse City, MI
- 3 hrs 18 min from Midland, MI
- 3 hrs 21 min from Bay City, MI
- 3 hrs 59 min from Green Bay, WI
