Established Camping
Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
The status of the Clark Lake Campground and RV dump station for the 2025 season is as follows:
- The campground water system and flush toilets are in full operation. Drinking water is available in loops 2, 3, and 4.
- There is no water available at the RV dump station. Forest staff are working to address the issue. Plan your visit accordingly and continue to monitor Recreation.gov for updates. We are sorry for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.
The status of the Clark Lake Pavilion for the 2025 season is as follows:
- The pavilion is open and taking reservations.
- Flush toilets are open and available for use.
- Showers are not available. We do not have a date or anticipate that they will be operational for the 2025 season. We are working to resolve the issue. We are sorry for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.
Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground, near Watersmeet, Michigan, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some modern comforts. With sites that allow for tents, RVs, and even glamping, it caters to a variety of camping styles.
This campground is known for its beautiful hiking trails, particularly the scenic trek around Clark Lake, which offers stunning views and a chance to spot some local wildlife. Visitors have raved about the cleanliness of the facilities, including the flushing toilets in certain loops, and the overall peaceful vibe that makes it easy to unwind. One camper noted, “The bathrooms were kept clean, and the views of the forest from every campground were beautiful and private.”
If you’re into fishing or just want to relax by the water, the nearby lake provides a great spot for both. While some areas may get busy on weekends, weekdays tend to be much quieter, making it a perfect escape for those looking to recharge. Just remember to pack your essentials, as the nearby town has limited options and higher prices.
With its mix of natural beauty and comfortable amenities, Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground is a solid choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing too much comfort. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the scenery, this campground has a little something for everyone.
Description
US Forest Service
Ottawa National Forest
Overview
Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground is located seven miles southwest of Watersmeet, Michigan, adjacent to the 18,327 acre Sylvania Wilderness Area. This 48-site campground provides a home base for visitors who venture into the wilderness on day outings. Also a great camping area in general or overnight camping just 5 minutes off Highway U.S. 2. Some electrical sites available, pressurized toilet facilities and an RV Dump and Water Station. Some sites are reservable but there are always sites available on a first come first serve basis as well!
Recreation
Sylvania's abundant lakes provide plentiful non-motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Other popular activities include hiking and viewing wildlife.
Facilities
This campground consists of four camping loops with a total of 48 campsites and provides drive-in campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers and motor homes. All sites are spaced with natural vegetation for screening. Each campsite offers a wood table, fire ring, lantern post and parking spur. Drinking water is provided by faucets in loops 2, 3, and 4, while two flush toilet facilities and one accessible vault toilet are evenly spaced throughout the campground. Also located adjacent to the campground is a day use facility that has a picnic area, canoe access landings, trailheads and a swimming beach. Located adjacent to the campground is a water and sewage dump station for RV's. Some sites are reservable on Recreation.gov but other sites are on a first come, first serve basis and typically there is always a site available.
Natural Features
The old-growth forests and pristine lakes in the region provide habitat for a wide range of animal and plant life, including rare orchids, bald eagles, loons and osprey. The wilderness contains 34 named lakes, some with sandy beaches and others surrounded by record-size red and white pines. The Ottawa National Forest is comprised of nearly one million acres and is located in the western reaches of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The forest's rolling, forest covered hills extend from the south shore of Lake Superior to the Wisconsin border. Lakes, rivers and waterfalls are found throughout this beautiful landscape.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (906) 661-8870.
Nearby Attractions
Bond Falls located about 20 minutes North East. Porcupine Mountains located about 1 hour North West. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore located about 2 hours North East. Keweenaw Peninsula is located about 1.5 hours North.
Fee Info
No daily fee is required unless you leave the campground and park, launch, or use facilities at the Clark Lake Beach and Picnic Area, Clark Lake Canoe Launch, or Crooked Lake Canoe Launch. Use of these locations requires a daily $5.00 per vehicle fee, or a season pass for $30 per vehicle.
Location
Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground is located in Michigan
Directions
From Watersmeet, MI, take US 2 west approximately 3.5 miles to County Road 535, turn left onto County Road 535 and travel approximately 3.5 miles to the Sylvania Wilderness Recreation Area entrance on left.
Coordinates
46.2446333 N
89.3100306 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
