Craig Lake State Park offers dispersed camping opportunities in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, approximately 20 miles west of Skanee. The area sits at an elevation of around 1,600 feet and features a rugged terrain with numerous small lakes and ponds. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero degrees Fahrenheit, while summer days typically range from 65-80°F with cooler nights even during peak season.
What to do
Hiking network access: Craig Lake State Park connects to the North Country Trail system with multiple access points. One camper noted, "The North Country Trail skirts the lake and there are additional trails that branch on and off it, including trails that go all the way around."
Wildlife viewing: Look for diverse wildlife throughout the seasons. According to a visitor at Craig Lake State Park Campground, "The wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others." Bring binoculars for the best experience.
Lake activities: Enjoy fishing, paddling, and swimming in the numerous lakes. "The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky," reports one Craig Lake visitor. No motorized boats are allowed on most lakes, keeping the water peaceful.
What campers like
Remote setting: The area provides genuine solitude not found in more developed campgrounds. A visitor at L'Anse Township Park & Campground described it as "Off the beaten path, older facility, that was so quiet & relaxing. Everything very clean and well kept."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Skanee, Michigan offers a balance between comfort and wilderness immersion. Van Riper State Park provides yurt options with a visitor stating, "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff."
Waterfront access: Many campgrounds offer prime lake frontage. At Van Riper State Park Campground, visitors enjoy "Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net. Large bathhouse with private shower rooms. Huge playground."
What you should know
Access challenges: Some of the most remote sites require physical effort to reach. One visitor noted about Craig Lake, "If you're looking for an off-the-grid escape this is it. The hike-in/paddle in camping spots are equipped with a picnic table and a firepit, everything else is up to you."
Variable weather conditions: Be prepared for rapid weather changes, particularly in shoulder seasons. A camper at Big Lake State Forest Campground shared, "In mid-October, we woke up to full on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season."
Limited services: Most dispersed and rustic campgrounds have minimal amenities. "No shower. Very clean. Boat launch. Way off the beaten path but the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake," reported one visitor about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: Choose campgrounds with child-friendly water access. At Perkins Park & Campground, "The beach is very nice and the water in Wilderness Lake is clean. There is an older playground that our kids still enjoyed, and an old abandoned railroad line that is now a trail."
Comfort-oriented yurts: Consider yurt camping near Skanee for families wanting outdoor experiences with fewer hassles. One visitor noted, "The park has 2 rustic cabins and 2 yurts for rent that are a fantastic getaway."
Activity planning: Plan around seasonal recreation options. "This is a very quiet and remote area. The campground and town are both very calm and quiet," reports a Perkins Park visitor, making it ideal for families seeking low-stimulation environments.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research individual site sizes before booking. A visitor to Michigamme Shores Campground reported, "Not much for privacy but it's right off the highway with full hook-up available and a great roadside bbq joint on site."
Road conditions: Consider vehicle clearance when selecting campgrounds. "The entrance to this campground is not for low clearance vehicles...it is full of HUGE flooded potholes (small ponds really). Not recommended for 2 wheel drive, low clearance vehicles," warns a visitor about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Hookup availability: Verify utility connections before arrival. "Nice campground on the lake, with a big beach... They have a water toy park. I would come back.. good wifi," reports a visitor about Michigamme Shores Campground, highlighting amenities not typically found in more rustic settings.
