The Hiawatha National Forest spans nearly 880,000 acres across Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,400 feet above sea level. The forest contains over 400 lakes and ponds that remain accessible year-round despite seasonal temperature fluctuations. Winter temperatures in the region often drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit, while summers typically reach the mid-70s.
What to do
Beach time at Camp Seven Lake: Located within Hiawatha National Forest, this campground offers a clean beach with clear, warm water. "The lake is accessible with a small beach and swimming section that many campers used," notes a recent visitor. Sites are spacious with water shared between them, fire rings, tables, and lamp posts at each site.
Visit natural springs: Campers at Indian Lake State Park South Campground recommend visiting nearby Kitch-iti-kipi. "If you are looking for things to do in the area consider: Kitch-iti-kipi Springs, Fayette State Historic Park, Canoeing on the Manistique River," suggests Eric H. The state park's location makes it convenient for exploring multiple attractions.
Hike forest trails: The Fox River Pathway begins just down the road from Seney Township Campground, offering hiking opportunities in a remote setting. "Small township campground with vault toilets, artesian well, 20/30 amp hook-ups, and Fox River access, $20/night (no reservations)," reports one camper. The campground provides a natural base for exploring less-traveled paths.
What campers like
Privacy and lake access: North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground offers both wooded seclusion and water views. "This campsite was awesome! We camped right on the lake and due to how small the campsite is (only about 8 sites max). No reservations. You self-register when you arrive," explains Magy C. The small size creates a more intimate camping experience away from crowds.
Lakefront sites with sunset views: Campers praise the waterfront locations at Indian Lake State Park. "This is a great lakeside campsite just outside of Manistique. There is a main bathroom area with showers. Good shallow water to swim (and watch the beautiful sunset) but a little difficult to fish," shares Evan P. The park also hosts weekly events for children and remains pet-friendly.
Direct trail access: Colwell Lake Campground features a hiking loop around the lake and private beach access. "Nice quiet campsite with privacy. We had the site next to the entrance so it was a little busy but not too bad. The loop around the lake was a nice walk to start the day," reports Ben C. The well-maintained trails provide easy morning exercise options directly from campsites.
What you should know
Cell service varies significantly: Connectivity ranges from nonexistent to surprisingly good across the region. At Camp Seven Lake Campground, "Internet & cell connectivity was nonexistent with Star Link & TMobile," reports one camper. However, at Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, "cell service with Verizon was shockingly good," notes Hunter W. Check carrier coverage before relying on connectivity.
Insect activity can be intense: Bug populations fluctuate by season and location. "These things were unphased by a number of citronella candles, obscene amounts of bug spray... Cooking anything was awful," reports one camper about mosquitoes at Colwell Lake Campground. However, another visitor at Hickey Marsh noted, "Camp in early September, bugs were minimal."
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds close by mid-October. Colwell Lake Campground operates from May 15 to October 7, while Camp Seven Lake has similar dates. Some facilities like Indian Lake State Park South remain open year-round but with reduced services during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational programs: Indian Lake State Park South offers organized activities for younger campers. "They even do weekly events such as 'Traveling Trivia' for kids," mentions Evan P. These structured programs provide entertainment without requiring additional planning from parents.
Consider waterfront accessibility: At Munising Tourist Park Campground, "The beach was very nice with shallow, warm water. That was the highlight of this Campground," reports Emily M. The beach house provides additional amenities: "There were many picnic tables and seating. It seemed like a great place, not only for lunch, but for crafts or even a nap."
Reserve tenting sites early: For families tent camping, some spots offer more privacy than others. "While this is a full amenities campground, one end was mostly reserved for tent camping with well spaced sites which were backed up by the woods," notes Carolyn K. about Indian Lake State Park. "We felt right at home in our tent, and the campground was exceptionally well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Glamping close to Hiawatha National Forest: Log Cabin Resort and Campground offers luxury camping options with concrete pads and full hookups. "Big rig access (46' 5th wheel). Nice concrete pads, full hook up and cable," reports Sean N. This glamping resort provides amenities that aren't available at more rustic sites within the national forest.
Electrical service varies by site: At Camp Seven Lake Campground, "Sites are nice and large. There was nice trees for the hammock," notes Tammy D. However, not all sites have the same amenities. One visitor mentioned, "Only one complaint was there was no designated tent vs RV sites. Generator for two days and nights was not what we were looking for being in tent camping."
Bring extra connection equipment: At Munising Tourist Park, campers recommend preparing for shared utilities. "If you're not lucky enough to get one on the waterfront, then there's just crowded, open sites that will possibly be sharing water and electricity with others. (Recommended to bring extra hose and cords)."
