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Established Camping

Mowe Lake Campsites — Hiawatha National Forest

Mowe Lake Campsites in Hiawatha National Forest features forested terrain with a mix of trees and underbrush. Temperatures range from lows in the 20s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan's largest freshwater spring.

Description

US Forest Service

Hiawatha National Forest

Overview

There are many campsites on the Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts of the Hiawatha National Forest. Many are located on inland lakes and are in a rustic forest environment with few to no amenities and no drinking water. The rustic environment offers a wonderfully serene and peaceful setting for your next camping experience. All of these sites are nestled in hardwood trees and pines. All of them are on small inland lakes, which offer a wide variety of fishing opportunities.

Recreation

Visitors will be able to enjoy swimming, berry picking, and fishing at these dispersed campsites. Licenses are required for fishing in Michigan waters. Mowe Lake is a good fishery for northern pike, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed and yellow perch. Survesy indicate a good, healthy fishery. there is an unimproved access located across from site 2. It has a sand base and is recommneded for small boats and trailers only.

Natural Features

There are two campsites located on Mowe Lake, each with their own set of characteristics: Site 1 is located in a semi-open area bordered by hardwood trees. It is 60 ft. x 40 ft and suitable for one family and trailer. Site 2 is similar to site 1 in layout, but slightly smaller in size. It is suitable for one family and trailer. The access road to these sites is narrow, but capable of handling moderate sized vehicles and trailers.

Nearby Attractions

There are a number of horse, bike, and hiking trails within minutes of several of the sites. In over a mile from these campsites, visitors can expect to find: bait shops, general and grocery stores, gas, a pay phone, trailheads, a fishing pier, biking, and kayak/canoe rentals. Gasoline, groceries, fishing and camping supplies, boat rentals, ice, MDNR, licenses, deli and restaurants are available approximately six miles northwest on Forest Highway 13.

Contact Info

For local information, please call (906) 474-6442 or call (906) 387-2512 for general information.

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Location

Mowe Lake Campsites — Hiawatha National Forest is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River), drive north 19 miles on Highway 13 to CR 440. Turn right (east) and drive 3.5 miles to FR 2209. Turn right (southeast) on 2209 at the Big Springs North Trailhead and drive 0.4 mile to FR 8104. Turn right (west) and drive about 0.6 mile to the campsites.

Address

RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT 8181 US HWY 2
Rapid river, MI 49878

Coordinates

46.145278 N
86.577222 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

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Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


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1 Review

Reviewed Jul. 9, 2025

Cute and quiet

Nice campsite being 1 of 2 here. The lake is very peaceful and the place feels very secluded.

Site1
Month of VisitJuly
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the max vehicle length at Mowe Lake Campsites — Hiawatha National Forest?

Mowe Lake Campsites — Hiawatha National Forest allows vehicles up to 32 feet.

Are fires allowed at Mowe Lake Campsites — Hiawatha National Forest?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Mowe Lake Campsites — Hiawatha National Forest, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.