Campgrounds near Trout Creek, Michigan provide diverse camping experiences across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Located at an elevation of around 1,600 feet, the area experiences typical northern Michigan weather with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F and winter lows often below freezing. The region sits within the Ottawa National Forest where campers can find both established campgrounds and dispersed camping options throughout most of the year.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 5-10 minutes from Twin Lakes State Park Campground. This area features several accessible waterfalls for all skill levels. "We were site 44... a waterfall about 5 minutes away. Right on a lake," notes Katilyn P. from Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Available at multiple locations with stocked waters. Many campers report success fishing in local lakes and rivers. "The lakes are stocked with brook trout and the fishing is amazing," writes Bruce B. from Bond Falls Campground.
Hiking the North Country Trail: Accessible from multiple campgrounds. This long-distance trail passes through the area and connects many camping locations. "The North Country Trail winds through this part of the UP, and the Big Lake campground would make a perfect starting or ending place for a section hike," explains Shari G. from Big Lake State Forest Campground.
Paddling on Lake Gogebic: Boat launches available at state parks. The lake offers excellent paddling options with rentals at some locations. "The camp store wasn't well stocked yet but they were working on it. The beach area was nice with a nice big sandy beach for the kids," shares Steven S. who stayed at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Varies significantly by campground. Some locations offer significantly more seclusion than others. "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," reports Kay K. from Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground.
Yurt accommodations: Available year-round in select parks. For those seeking yurt camping near Trout Creek, Michigan, options exist across several state parks. "My family could not find anywhere to stay and this was the very last campsite on the map in the state of Michigan... definitely worth it for the shower," mentions Lila D. who stayed at Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
Lake access: Many sites offer direct water access. Waterfront sites are popular and often booked first. "There are about 20 campsites and a handful on the water. The sites are free for up to a total of 14 days which is really nice. We stayed at a site that was up the hill from the water," notes Cierra K. about Presque Isle - Porcupine Mountains State Park.
Old-growth forest settings: Especially in the Porcupine Mountains. The unique ecosystem provides a distinctive camping experience. "The site was beautiful and completely worth it. The water was clean for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and swimming," shares Ashley D. about her backcountry camping experience in the Porcupine Mountains.
What you should know
Seasonal bug conditions: Can be intense during summer months. Many reviews mention challenging insect populations. "The mosquitoes and flies were so bad that our dogs faces were getting bloody and bug spray and a fire did nothing for us. We packed up and canceled our whole trip after that," warns Nathan W. about Bond Falls Campground.
Winter yurt camping options: Available at limited locations. Heated yurts near Trout Creek provide winter accommodation options. "Twin Lakes MI SP has a huge facelift in 2024... New paving, new bath/shower rooms, and pavilion are coming. Shutdown during some of 2024 is anticipated," advises Roger W., providing important planning information.
Variable cell service: Often limited or non-existent. Prepare for disconnection at most campgrounds. "We had one dot of Verizon cell signal in camp but full service in Watersmeet, a short drive away," reports Art S. from River Road RV Park, Campground and Bunkhouse.
Site reservation requirements: Vary by campground type. Some locations require advance booking while others are first-come, first-served. "Bond Falls is a little difficult to figure out if you haven't done your homework before visiting... There are campsites strung along the banks all around the lake, there are even a few camp sites on some islands in the middle of the lake," explains Matt S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Available at select parks for children. Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net," shares Jenny G. from Van Riper State Park Campground.
Beach activities: Sand beaches at multiple locations. Water access points vary in quality and amenities. "Found this place by chance. Amazing location across from Lake Superior. The best sunsets I've seen west of the pacific," notes Adam from Union River Big Bear Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Common throughout the region. Many campers report seeing various animals. "Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning," reports Amy K. about Big Lake State Forest Campground, highlighting the natural setting.
Supply planning: Limited shopping options nearby. Prepare by bringing essentials. "Bond Falls is beautiful! The campground is tidy but busy. There is a nearby gift shop that sells just about anything you may have forgotten. The trail system is fabulous and some trails are handicap accessible," advises Carrie C.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many parks accommodate large rigs. Most campgrounds can handle RVs, but site dimensions vary widely. "Our site is large with plenty of space for our teardrop and screen room. Water is right next to us. This loop even has flushing toilets," describes Art S. about Sylvania Campground.
Hookup availability: Limited at many locations. Full-service sites are rare in the area. "The campground is in a wilderness area so there are regulations if you choose dispersed camping. The are 4 campground loops and many campsites out around the lakes," explains Art S.
Road access challenges: Some areas have difficult access roads. Be prepared for rough conditions at certain locations. "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 Shari G. about Big Lake State Forest Campground.
