Camping sites near Bergland, Michigan range from rustic outposts to waterfront camping options at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet above sea level. The surrounding Ottawa National Forest creates a dense woodland setting for most campgrounds in the area. Water temperature at Lake Gogebic typically reaches 70-75°F in July and August, while dropping to the 50s in early June and September.
What to do
Hiking near Porcupine Mountains State Park: Access multiple trail systems ranging from easy to difficult, with some routes directly accessible from campsites. At Union River Rustic Outpost Camp, "There is a bridge and really nice trail along the river with waterfalls right at the end of the campground. In the right conditions you could probably fish off of the cross country ski trail which we walked too."
Lake Superior beaches: Visit public beaches within 20-30 minutes of most Bergland camping options. A camper at Union River Big Bear Campground notes, "This place in the fall is magic. Beautifully wooded, many sites have a view of Lake Superior. You can hear the waves at night."
Fall foliage viewing: Mid-September to early October offers peak fall colors in the region. "We camped at Presque Isle in the Porkies for a long weekend in October. The color change was amazing!" according to a visitor at Presque Isle campground.
Summit Peak hike: A half-mile trail leads to a 40-foot observation tower with 360-degree views. A camper at White Pine Rustic Outpost mentions, "There's also the Summit Peak Hike close to the site that was only a half mile hike!"
What campers like
Lake access: Many campers value proximity to Lake Gogebic or Lake Superior for recreation. A Bergland Township Park visitor shared, "Inexpensive for being right next to a lake and in a small town. Though, at the time we went the lake had a water warning for bacteria and we did not swim."
Quiet, secluded sites: Smaller campgrounds offer more privacy and quiet environments. At White Pine Rustic Outpost Camp, a camper appreciated that "The sites are large, the campground is small (and quiet) and there's even a creek that runs along the west side of the campground."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Gogebic is known for walleye fishing, with boat launches at several campgrounds. According to a Lake Gogebic County Park visitor, "Taken care of lake with big camping sites. Only down side is the electric is stationed in the cross of for sites. So bring long extension cord. Clean swimming area along with plenty of wild life. Seen a few bald eagles fishing while there."
Dark skies: Limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. A visitor to White Pine Rustic Outpost mentioned the "Quiet, beautiful stars" as a highlight of their camping experience.
What you should know
Bug presence: Black flies and mosquitoes can be intense, especially in early summer. At Presque Isle - Porcupine Mountains State Park, a visitor noted, "The bugs were pretty bad and we were here middle of June, however good bug spray and fire smoke helped ease them a little."
Limited services: Cell service and internet connectivity varies widely. A Union River Big Bear Campground review mentioned, "Don't expect to do work or school, service and internet up there is practically non existent."
Seasonal water conditions: Swimmers itch can occur in early summer on some lakes. One Lake Gogebic County Park visitor advised that the beach "may be closed in early summer due to swimmers itch."
Varied site conditions: Campsite terrain can differ significantly even within the same campground. According to a Lake Gogebic County Park review, "A lot of the sites are kinda uneven, and some are grass, some are sandy... definitely do your research before you pick a site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A Bergland Township Park visitor mentioned, "Nice playground for the kids if needed, restaurant only about a tenth of a mile walk."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas for safer water access. At Lake Gogebic County Park, a visitor noted they have a "Clean swimming area along with plenty of wild life."
Proximity to amenities: Campgrounds closer to towns provide easier access to supplies. According to a Union Bay Campground visitor, "We could walk to the visitor center via a short wooded trail, walk or drive to a small convenience store with firewood, and step over to Lake Superior each evening for sunrise."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see birds and animals. A Lake Gogebic County Park visitor reported, "Seen a few bald eagles fishing while there."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Some campgrounds have unusual electrical configurations. At Lake Gogebic County Park, an RVer advised, "The electric is stationed in the cross of for sites. So bring long extension cord."
Limited pull-through sites: Most campgrounds in the area only offer back-in sites. As noted by a Lake Gogebic County Park visitor, "No pull through sites, only back in."
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. At Union River Outpost, a camper mentioned, "Site was not that level. If you were tent camping, you would likely be sleeping on a slope of some kind."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full sanitary services. A visitor to Bergland Township Park mentioned their appreciation for the convenience of having a dump station at this small, lakeside campground.
