Ottawa National Forest campgrounds span across 993,000 acres of dense forest with over 50 lakes. Located in the western Upper Peninsula, the region receives around 200 inches of annual snowfall and summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F. Most camping areas remain open from mid-May through late October, with limited winter access primarily by snowmobile or snowshoe.
What to do
Waterfall viewing: Easy access to Bond Falls, a cascading waterfall with handicap-accessible viewing platforms. "Bond Falls is beautiful! The campground is tidy but busy. The trail system is fabulous and some trails are handicap accessible," notes Carrie C. from Bond Falls Campground.
Fishing: Abundant opportunities for catching brook trout in stocked lakes throughout the forest. "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," mentions Bruce B., highlighting the quality angling available.
Hiking: Explore trails around Clark Lake for longer excursions. "Hiking around Clark Lake is an 8-10 mile trek that's gorgeous the whole way," shares Ellery K. from Sylvania Clark Lake Campground, where trails wind through old-growth forest with multiple backcountry camping options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "The sites are spread apart nicely with plenty of privacy. The loop extends a bit because of this," says Art S. about Bond Falls. Similarly, at Sparrow Rapids Campground, "Six good sites, all level. Nicely separated," reports Bill F.
Free camping options: Several locations offer no-cost stays. "Best free campground. Fire ring picnic table. Beautiful lake full of fish. Amazing waterfall. Clean campground with toilet and hand pump for water," explains Eric G. about Bond Falls Campground, while Ryan N. mentions "wonderful stay, quiet, and the river is so close" at Sparrow Rapids.
Old-growth forests: Sylvania Wilderness provides rare intact forest ecosystem. "Lovely shady private sites with ample mosquitoes. We were in a tent so did not appreciate the asphalt, but this site would be great for a small trailer," notes Kay K. about Sylvania Clark Lake, highlighting the mature tree canopy.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Biting flies and mosquitoes can be intense, especially early summer. "First of all we tent camped… The mosquitoes and flies were so bad that our dogs faces were getting bloody and bug spray and a fire did nothing for us," warns Nathan W. at Bond Falls. Similarly, at Lake Gogebic State Park, Steven S. advises, "Bugs were not a problem during the day but the second that sun goes down have the bug spray ready."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "It's a limited service campground, first come first served," explains Miranda M. about Sparrow Rapids. Sparrow Rapids also has "his and hers pit toilets and didn't see any water," according to Dave.
Cell service variability: Coverage ranges from none to surprisingly good. "I was happy to have service in the woods. 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," reports Sarah W. about Sparrow Rapids Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming areas: Beaches provide kid-friendly recreation. At Union Bay Campground, "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," shares Christine C.
Consider fishing opportunities: Many lakes have abundant pan fish for children. "Good fishing and lots of pan fish to make fishing fun for the kids!" recommends Lisa A. about Marion Lake Campground, where waterfront sites provide easy access.
Plan for insects: Pack protective gear beyond just spray. "Bug spray was no match for the flies, so we were forced to spend most of our time in the screen room," notes Cody S. about Union Bay Campground, suggesting a screened shelter is essential for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes vary significantly: Check specific site dimensions before booking. "We had a site in the shade, directly on the lake. There were quite a few muddy spots at our & surrounding sites due to a lot of recent rain. We had to move our car to the parking lot to avoid getting stuck," explains Stacia R. at Lake Gogebic State Park.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require blocks or levelers. At Burned Dam Campground, "A couple sites are large enough for a small camper and screen room. Others will only fit a tent," notes Art S., highlighting the limited options for larger rigs.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The one lane dirt road that heads here is almost 5 miles long. With the road closed just after the campground, people only come out here on purpose," warns Art S. about Sparrow Rapids, suggesting checking with the ranger station before attempting access with larger RVs.
