Camping near Ottawa National Forest

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Ottawa National Forest, MI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Ottawa National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Ottawa National Forest (146)

    1. Bond Falls Campground

    15 Reviews
    Ottawa National Forest, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 827-3235

    "The lakes are stocked with brook trout and the fishing is amazing. Picnic areas are located near the falls and hiking in the surrounding areas is limitless."

    "In the morning, I walked the loop and found several others that we could fit(now that it was light out), and we moved over one site to W6."

    2. Sparrow Rapids Campground

    14 Reviews
    Trout Creek, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 852-3500

    "This was a beautiful small campground with only 6 campsites arranged around a loop and are spaced well. Access to the campground is off of a gravel road which is somewhat narrow."

    "We were able to work and talk nice walks while we had free time.

    A few bars with Verizon and we can log on. Big plus."

    3. Lake Gogebic State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Marenisco, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 842-3341

    "This was a GREAT campground to stay at for checking out some of the numerous popular waterfalls in upper Michigan. Our grassy site was on the shore of the lake with lots of trees."

    "We loved staying at Lake Gogebic!

    There’s a beach a short walk through the campground and the site hosts are super friendly."

    5. Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground

    6 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 396-5428

    $22 - $26 / night

    "The are 4 campground loops and many campsites out around the lakes. We chose a spot in loop 3.

    Our site is large with plenty of space for our teardrop and screen room. Water is right next to us."

    "Access to the lake was easy, and the fact that tete are so few camp sites on the lake really makes it feel secluded. There are 2 nice beaches on either end, and easy portage to other lakes."

    6. Burned Dam Campground

    2 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4724

    "Beautiful, quiet, free campgrounds right next to the Ontonagon River and Mex-i-mine Falls (you can hear the rushing water)."

    "We did look around and it’s a decent place.

    A couple sites are large enough for a small camper and screen room. Others will only fit a tent. There is a vault toilet but no water or garbage."

    7. Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping

    4 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4724

    $15 / night

    "Loon was a lovely campsite - separated from the others, nice view of the lake, and a short, straightforward walk from the trailhead. "

    "We did it the easy way, loaded our canoe, crossed the lake to our campsite and set up camp. No portaging with our gear."

    8. Lake Gogebic County Park

    6 Reviews
    Marenisco, MI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 842-3333

    $25 / night

    "The RV dump station is right next to the flush bathroom building.

    The campsites were nice and open.  There was evidence of larger trees by our site but there were gone. "

    "Pros: nice campground, right on the lake. Has a nice beach access (although keep in mind it may be closed in early summer due to swimmers itch)."

    9. Robbins Pond Campground

    1 Review
    Ottawa National Forest, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4724

    10. Imp Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4551

    "It felt remote but was a quick drive out of the woods to wintersweet with convenience of a gas station and casino. There was a fire pit, vault toilet, picnic table and lantern hook on the site."

    "Love the big tree all around and the view from site 19"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 146 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ottawa National Forest

563 Reviews of 146 Ottawa National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Ottawa National Forest

Camping near Ottawa National Forest, Michigan, offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and a variety of campgrounds to suit different preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. Many campers recommend checking out the East and West trails bordering the Presque Isle River. One reviewer mentioned, "The East and West trails bordering the Presque Isle River are worth the drive to get there."
  • Fishing and Boating: Enjoy fishing on Lake Superior or take a leisurely boat ride. A camper shared, "Did a pontoon rental for a day and enjoyed fishing on Lake Superior and taking a leisurely cruise up the Ontonagon River."
  • Beach Activities: Spend time at the beach across from Union River Big Bear Campground. One visitor noted, "There's a free beach across the street. You need to take the stairs down to it."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Bond Falls Campground states, "Beautiful sites, some very private and right on the lake."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground mentioned, "Clean facilities. Wood and ice available onsite."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peacefulness of the area. One reviewer at Sparrow Rapids Campground said, "Quiet, no frills campground by a river out in the woods."

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds do not take reservations. A camper at Ontonagon Township Park Campground noted, "They do not take reservations, so it’s a gamble to just show up."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping warned, "Lots of mosquitos and a few biting flies darting at your head."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer at Union River Big Bear Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station, but no sewer."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One camper at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground said, "There was also a nice, modern playground."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A visitor at Union Bay Campground mentioned, "There was also a hut with a plethora of games and toys."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Protect your family from insects. A camper at Porcupine Mountains Backcountry Camping advised, "Bring bug nets!!!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger rigs. A reviewer at Union River Big Bear Campground noted, "Some sites have more room than others."
  • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups. A camper at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground mentioned, "30 amp service, but no water at the sites."
  • Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up quickly. A visitor at Ontonagon Township Park Campground said, "You really have to be there, in person by 7 AM to wait in line to get a site."

Camping near Ottawa National Forest, Michigan, provides a great escape into nature with plenty of options for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Ottawa National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ottawa National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 146 campgrounds and RV parks near Ottawa National Forest and 11 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Ottawa National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ottawa National Forest is Bond Falls Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 15 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ottawa National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Ottawa National Forest.

What parks are near Ottawa National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Ottawa National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.