Best Campgrounds near Trout Creek, MI

The Upper Peninsula wilderness surrounding Trout Creek, Michigan features a mix of rustic and modern camping options within the Ottawa National Forest and nearby state lands. Sparrow Rapids Campground, located directly in Trout Creek, provides year-round tent and RV camping with basic amenities including vault toilets and picnic tables. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can access additional established sites like Bond Falls Campground in Bruce Crossing and Sturgeon River Campground in Watton, both offering varying levels of amenities. The region's camping landscape is characterized by forested sites near rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, with several campgrounds providing boat access to nearby waterways.

Weather conditions in Michigan's Upper Peninsula demand careful planning, particularly during shoulder seasons. As one camper noted, "In mid-October, we woke up to full-on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season." Many access roads to remote campgrounds feature rough terrain with significant potholes that may require high-clearance vehicles. Black flies and mosquitoes present a notable challenge during summer months, with multiple reviewers mentioning that standard insect repellents offer limited protection. A screened shelter for eating areas is highly recommended. Cell service is limited throughout the region, and many campgrounds require Michigan Recreation Passports for entry, available at park offices or online.

Waterfront campsites receive consistently high ratings despite their typically closer spacing. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness area provides more secluded backcountry options for those seeking solitude. Campers frequently mention the spectacular night skies and wildlife viewing opportunities, with deer and various bird species commonly spotted. "The stars were gorgeous," noted one visitor to a nearby state park. Lake Superior shoreline campgrounds, though not directly in Trout Creek, are popular destinations within an hour's drive and offer dramatic sunset views. Winter camping opportunities exist at several year-round sites, with some locations offering yurts or cabins with wood stoves for cold-weather comfort. The North Country Trail passes through the region, making several campgrounds convenient bases for section hiking.

Best Camping Sites Near Trout Creek, Michigan (144)

    1. Sparrow Rapids Campground

    14 Reviews
    Trout Creek, MI
    3 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."

    2. Bond Falls Campground

    16 Reviews
    Ottawa National Forest, MI
    8 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."

    3. Bob Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Nisula, MI
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 884-2085

    "This is a small simple campground with lovely lakeside tent sites among rather dense trees. If you walk east you’ll find a sandy beach to splash in."

    "The forest roads gradually got smaller as we kept driving. Recent rain left muddy areas to be traversed. Trucks and equipment are working here too but on the weekend all was quiet."

    4. Burned Dam Campground

    3 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    12 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."

    5. Sturgeon River Campground

    8 Reviews
    Watton, MI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 852-3500

    "You wont know what is happening at the sites around you unless you looking for something to find."

    "I'm at site 3 easy access to the river not deep over here, you can post your chair in the river and not get your bum wet."

    7. Lake Gogebic State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Marenisco, MI
    27 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."

    8. Courtney Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Nisula, MI
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 884-2085

    $22 / night

    "Access road off highway is paved, unlike many other national forest campgrounds. Some sites are very spacious and/or on waterfront."

    "Stayed at Courtney lake CG while bear hunting nearby. Very quiet during the week with some campers coming in on the weekend. Water and toilets were available directly across from the campsite."

    9. Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness

    3 Reviews
    Watton, MI
    18 miles

    "I highly recommend heading over to nearby Silver Mountain."

    10. Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground

    7 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    22 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."

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Recent Reviews near Trout Creek, MI

594 Reviews of 144 Trout Creek Campgrounds


  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Luna White Deer Campground

    Two of the bigger campgrounds in the State Park

    The campgrounds with 30 plus sites are two of the bigger grounds in Chequamegon-Nicolet areas that look very well maintained. The facilities are currently at the end of the season closing maintenance (closed on October 15). "On foot" travels only when camping after that. And, in addition to a few dispersed camping lots available for a fee outside the two facilities, these will be one of my winter camps destinations.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Laurel Lake Campground — Chequamegon Nicolet NF

    Another Excellent Camp-out at Campground 2 Laurel Lake

    Dark and quiet at night time. The site would be a perfect canoe landing, the water is within a few yards. The campground has three spacious sites, while the Campground 1 in the lake has eight. A vault toilet and clean water well. The autumn weather is bright and fresh!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Hancock Recreation Area Beach & Campground

    Great stop over

    Campground offers variety of type sites with mixed amenities and sun or shade. More secluded sites may not be suited to larger length camping units. Decent bath/shower house. Only one for whole park. Lower level sites near the canal would be great, but can be windy. The dump station is design with one lane, so can get a backup. Some site have had fresh gravel applied. It hasn’t compacted yet, so a bit coarse to walk on. Close to Hancock. There is a sand n gravel company nearby, so you do hear noise from that area. Have stayed before, and will again.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Season's Best at Franklin Lake

    We have had an excellent camp-out this year here. Maybe because our site is only a yard away from the water, and with ample living space for multiple tents and a vehicle. A fire ring and a picnic table. A set of vault toilets nearby. We didn't expect to find flushing toilets in a campground anywhere, but, we have a choice here to drive up further and use the facility. The wood forest is nicely maintained. Falling off branches are taken care of off the roads right away. And, that's all we care about in enjoying the outdoors this year.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Laurel Lake Campground — Chequamegon Nicolet NF

    Laurel Lake Campground

    We don't have any RVs, no RV's cleaning and dumping facility required. It's good enough with its regular and standard trash disposal site. The wood forest is nicely maintained. I have no fear of falling timbers or branches at all times. And, the nicest thing about the campground is the few square-footages of level and compacted square on each site, ready to spread your tent on it. It's great! 👍

  • Lindsey R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Baraga State Park Campground

    Noisy spot

    Decided to drive north to stay on Keweenaw Bay. The only thing you couldn't tell is that the State Park was right on the road. Literally. No site is quiet. Traffic goes all day and all night. Park was curiously mostly full with families and ither campers set up fir the weekend?. Clearly a popular spot. Very clean bathrooms and showers a lovely Park Ranger.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Van Riper State Park Campground

    Electrical hookups, about $35 per night

    Very expensive, but what can you do with a useless storm that doesn't go away?

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Excellent sandy beach

    Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns. With a boat one can visit an island that once had a cabin. The best swimming is on a sandbar directly across from the beach.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Scott Lake

    Remote site on quiet lake

    The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake. The Wilderness Headwaters trail is also close.


Guide to Trout Creek

Camping spots near Trout Creek, Michigan include both free and paid options throughout the Ottawa National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,100-1,600 feet, creating varied terrain with numerous river systems and small lakes. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer highs average 75-85°F with high humidity levels during June and July.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Sparrow Rapids Campground provides direct access to river fishing with campsites positioned near the water. As one visitor noted, "The stream fishing down the hill" offers a convenient fishing spot from camp. The sites are "arranged around a loop and are spaced well" for privacy while enjoying riverside activities.

Trail exploration: Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground connects to several notable hiking trails. A camper shared, "Hiking around Clark lake is an 8-10 mile trek that's gorgeous the whole way." The wilderness area features old growth forest and multiple lake access points for day hiking or longer excursions.

Waterfall viewing: The region contains multiple waterfall viewing opportunities within short driving distance. At Bond Falls Campground, "The vault toilet is pretty gross, only downside. I highly recommend camping here!" Another camper mentioned it's the "Best free campground. Fire ring picnic table. Beautiful lake full of fish. Amazing waterfall."

Winter exploration: Several campgrounds remain open year-round for winter camping adventures. The Sturgeon River Gorge area provides backcountry opportunities even in cold months. A visitor described it as "Remote and pristine. I didn't think I was in the Midwest."

What campers like

Lake access: Lake Gogebic State Park Campground offers direct water access with sites positioned for views and activities. A camper explained, "Had a great site right on the lake, fire pit was 10 feet from the water, most sites are large with trees but not many are very level."

Privacy between sites: Courtney Lake Campground provides well-spaced campsites with natural barriers. As one reviewer noted, "The sites are large, clean, and quiet." Another mentioned, "Very quiet during the week with some campers coming in on the weekend."

Free camping options: Several no-fee sites exist throughout the region. At Sparrow Rapids Campground, a camper reported, "Wonderful stay, quiet, and the river is so close. And if you get bored you can go to Kenton to meet some of the locals at Hoppies bar or UP chucks bar."

Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain clean basic facilities. At one location, a visitor noted, "Outhouse well cared for. No water. Fire rings. Pack in pack out." Another mentioned, "Pit toilets are super clean."

What you should know

Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. A camper at Sturgeon River Campground reported, "The road there is down some dirt roads with some bumps but it's drivable." Another noted, "It's about a 6 mile and 15 minute drive down windy dirt road to get to the sites."

Bug management: Insects present significant challenges throughout summer. One camper at Bond Falls Flowage wrote, "Mosquitoes and flies were so bad that our dogs faces were getting bloody and bug spray and a fire did nothing for us." Consider visiting in fall when insect populations decrease.

Cell service variability: Connectivity varies drastically between campgrounds. At Sparrow Rapids, one visitor noted, "Excellent ATT coverage. No fee," while others report no service at all. Download maps before traveling to remote sites.

Limited amenities: Most forest campgrounds offer basic facilities only. A camper explained, "Six sites total...No water. Fire rings. Pack in pack out." Prepare to bring all needed supplies and water filtration systems.

Tips for camping with families

Shoreline exploration: Lakes provide natural entertainment for children. At Marion Lake Campground, a visitor noted, "Several sites on the water and all very big, with lots of space and privacy! Good fishing and lots of pan fish to make fishing fun for the kids!"

Camping near facilities: For younger children, choose camps with toilets. A parent recommended, "Water and toilets were available directly across from the campsite." Several campgrounds feature vault toilets within walking distance of all sites.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe local wildlife. A camper at Lake Gogebic mentioned spotting "a group of baby ducks that liked hanging out near our campsite," creating natural entertainment for young visitors.

Avoid peak bug season: When camping with children, consider timing visits for early spring or fall. One visitor warned, "In mid June...the mosquitoes and flies were pretty bad," making summer camping potentially uncomfortable for families.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most forest campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. At Sparrow Rapids, a camper advised, "It wouldn't hurt to check with them if you have a larger rig. The sites aren't that big." Another mentioned fitting "our 20' transvan here easily."

Campsite surface conditions: Weather affects site conditions significantly. A camper reported, "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."

Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment. One RVer noted, "Most sites are large with trees but not many are very level," requiring adjustments for comfortable parking.

Limited hookups: Most campgrounds offer no electric or water connections. A visitor at Courtney Lake Campground reported, "Water and toilets were available directly across from the campsite," but no direct hookups for RVs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Trout Creek, Michigan?

The Trout Creek area offers several camping options with varying amenities. Courtney Lake Campground provides drive-in sites with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. For a more rustic experience, Bob Lake Campground offers boat-in, drive-in, and walk-in access with basic amenities like water and toilets. Michigan State Forest campgrounds in the region typically provide simple, unelectrified sites with fire rings and pit toilets for around $15 per night. Most campgrounds in the area feature well-spaced sites surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ottawa National Forest, offering a peaceful camping experience.

Where is Trout Creek located in Michigan?

Trout Creek is located in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, near the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. It sits approximately 15 miles east of Ontonagon and about 25 miles west of Bruce Crossing. This small community is positioned in the Ottawa National Forest region, making it a gateway to numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. Sparrow Rapids Campground and Sturgeon River Campground are both located near Trout Creek, providing convenient access to the natural beauty of Michigan's UP.

What outdoor activities can I do near Trout Creek, Michigan?

The Trout Creek area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking opportunities abound, including trails in the nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park where you can explore forests and waterfalls. Lake Superior is accessible for swimming, fishing, and beach walks. The Ontonagon Township Park and Campground provides lake access for water activities. Fishing is excellent in the numerous streams, rivers, and lakes, including opportunities for trout fishing. The region also offers wildlife viewing, photography, and spectacular fall color tours. Winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling on the extensive trail networks throughout the Ottawa National Forest.