Ottawa National Forest spans over 993,000 acres in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with elevations ranging from 660 to 1,900 feet. The region experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall and mild summers, creating distinct camping seasons. Most campgrounds near the forest have maximum stays between 14-16 days, with limited cell service throughout the area.
What to do
Fishing access points: Sparrow Rapids Campground offers direct access to river fishing. "The small campground nestles sites in close but still gives some privacy on most of them... The dirt road provides a nice long walk for our dog too," notes Art S. The campsite includes six level sites situated around a loop.
Hiking trails: Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground provides access to scenic forest trails. "We hiked around part of Clark Lake. It's a beautiful trail and also has some backcountry campsites," shares Art S. The 8-10 mile Clark Lake loop trail is particularly popular, with Ellery K. describing it as "gorgeous the whole way."
Disc golf course: Ontonagon Township Park Campground offers disc golf facilities alongside its beach and camping areas. "There is a playground and disc golf in the area and lots of other things to do," mentions Yetiman. The campground also features walking trails near Lake Superior.
What campers like
Sandy beaches: Lakefront sites at Ontonagon Township Park provide excellent swimming. "The sunsets on the sandy beach that is connected to the campground were a highlight," writes Cullen H. "The water felt so good, we ran back up and got into trunks to swim. Brisk but totally swimmable," adds Kevin.
Secluded spots: Sparrow Rapids Campground attracts campers seeking quiet. "Six good sites, all level. Nicely separated. Outhouse well cared for. No water. Fire rings. Pack in pack out," explains Bill F. The five-mile dirt road leading to the campground ensures minimal traffic and privacy.
Wildlife viewing: Union Bay Campground in Porcupine Mountains offers natural habitats. "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," describes Christine C. Bear precautions are required throughout the area.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly during summer. "While we were camping the flies were unbearable. Bug spray was no match for the flies, so we were forced to spend most of our time in the screen room," reports Cody S. about Union Bay Campground. Black flies are especially prevalent in July and August.
Cell coverage varies: Some campgrounds maintain reliable service. At Alpine Campground & RV Park, campers note: "We were 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," according to Sarah W.
First-come, first-served policies: Many campgrounds don't take reservations. "You really have to be there, in person by 7AM to wait in line to get a site," advises Susan H. about Ontonagon Township Park. Weekday arrivals generally have better chances of securing spots than weekend arrivals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Family-friendly amenities make camping with children easier. "My wife enjoyed that there were clean shower and toilet facilities. I would be fine at a more rustic camp site deep in the woods but my wife and daughter definitely appreciated the beach and playground," writes Cullen H. about Ontonagon Township Park.
Safety considerations: Union Bay Campground requires wildlife precautions. "When you stay here, don't forget to put your trash in your car! We didn't and we're visited by a pretty sassy raccoon," warns Emma W. Food storage containers are provided at some sites to prevent bear encounters.
Age-restricted options: Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort offers adult-only camping. "This unique RV Resort is adults only but doesn't follow the typical 55+ rule and is available for younger adults as well!" explains Jake C. This provides a quieter alternative for families with older children or adults traveling without kids.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV camping near Ottawa National Forest requires careful planning for larger rigs. "Our site was grass and had some ruts from previous guests," notes Sam C. about River Road RV Park. Alpine Campground offers "pull thru sites where just long enough for our 35' trailer and truck to stay connected."
Monthly options: Some campgrounds allow extended stays. "Great community in the park for summer/early fall living. Numerous lakes nearby for fishing; a boat ramp into the Wisconsin River for canoes/kayaks is just across 45," explains Susan T. about Borderline RV Park, which operates seasonally from May through October.
Hookup limitations: Electric options vary between parks. "We nabbed the last place on the beach side and could see Lake Superior from the site," shares Kevin about Ontonagon Township Park, which provides "power/water posts (no generators, yay!)." Some campgrounds offer only 30-amp service while others provide 50-amp connections for larger motorhomes.
