Best Campgrounds near Watersmeet, MI

Watersmeet is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Watersmeet. Find the best campgrounds near Watersmeet, MI. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Watersmeet, Michigan (161)

    1. Bond Falls Campground

    16 Reviews
    Ottawa National Forest, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 827-3235

    "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."

    "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."

    2. Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground

    7 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 396-5428

    $22 - $26 / night

    "Beautiful and well worth the drive! Prepare for it to be packed on the weekends, but week day camping is pretty serene."

    "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."

    4. Imp Lake Campground

    4 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4551

    "It felt remote but was a quick drive out of the woods to wintersweet with convenience of a gas station and casino. There was a fire pit, vault toilet, picnic table and lantern hook on the site."

    "Love the big tree all around and the view from site 19"

    5. Lake Gogebic State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Marenisco, MI
    22 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."

    6. Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping

    4 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4724

    "Loon was a lovely campsite - separated from the others, nice view of the lake, and a short, straightforward walk from the trailhead. "

    "We did it the easy way, loaded our canoe, crossed the lake to our campsite and set up camp. No portaging with our gear."

    7. Sparrow Rapids Campground

    14 Reviews
    Trout Creek, MI
    19 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."

    8. Burned Dam Campground

    3 Reviews
    Watersmeet, MI
    7 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."

    9. Borderline RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Land o Lakes, WI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 547-6169

    "Numerous lakes nearby for fishing; a boat ramp into the Wisconsin River for canoes/kayaks is just across 45

    I’ve been here April through October"

    10. Lac Vieux Desert

    2 Reviews
    Land o Lakes, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 479-6407

    "I'm only giving 4 stars because the campground is about a mile from the lake. However, the distance from the water does help with the mosquitoes."

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Recent Reviews near Watersmeet, MI

622 Reviews of 161 Watersmeet Campgrounds


  • 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!

  • D
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Emily Lake NF Campground

    Would be solitude.

    Among the 11 campsites there are a few that will accommodate small rvs. There is a hand pump well for fresh water, and although safe and tastes great, clarity is not its strong suit. Two vault toilets. Emily lake is pretty and I’ll probably try camping here again. Unfortunately, most suitable sites were taken and the one I took was two sites down from semi-permanent campers that shouted loud obscenities randomly for no apparent reason and were quite loud.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Curry Park Campground

    Decent park for short stay

    Stayed two nights as the location was convenient for my stay in town. Older park with mature trees offering shade on most lots. Power pedestal upgrades to 30 and 50 amp to majority of lots. Limited FHU lots grouped together in lower area. Suspect this area could have drainage issues during heavy rainfall. Lots near highway would tend to be noisier. Restroom and shower area was kept up and clean. Very functional shower stall with plenty of hot water. Dump station designed for one sided unloading with non-potable and potable water nearby. Expect to wait if other using the dump station. Overall, decent place for short-term stays.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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

    Indian Lake

    Single site on small lake

    The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. It’s intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area. Many hiking opportunities are nearby.


Guide to Watersmeet

Camping near Watersmeet, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the nearby trails. Campers have enjoyed the state park hiking trails accessible from the Lake Gogebic State Park Campground, noting that “there are some state park hiking trails access from campground.”
  • Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the lakes. One visitor at Bond Falls Campground mentioned, “Fishing is decent on this big lake,” making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy swimming or kayaking. A reviewer at Franklin Lake said, “The water is crystal clear and there’s a beach that can be used if you don’t have a lake site.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Musky Lake Campground shared, “It was perfect...lots of leaves on the ground but still felt like things were private.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are noted for their cleanliness. A camper at Sparrow Rapids Campground remarked, “Pit toilet nearby... Memorial Day weekend and there were a few sites available.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One reviewer at Lake Gogebic County Park said, “The staff was really friendly, and even suggested to switch to a better campsite for free.”

What you should know:

  • No Showers at Some Campgrounds: Not all campgrounds have shower facilities. A camper at Lake Gogebic County Park pointed out, “There is no mention of showers on the website... The bathroom is an older stone building.”
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in wooded areas. A visitor at Bond Falls Campground noted, “Lot mosquitoes but you’re in woods, will come back we loved it.”
  • First-Come, First-Served: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Sturgeon River Campground mentioned, “Camping is free and first come first serve.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A reviewer at Hi-Pines Campground said, “The sites are nice and big and the pond has inflatables that are very fun.”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One family at Clear Lake Campground enjoyed “great activities for kids…fishing presentation, movie, kickball.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outdoor fun. A camper at Cunnard Lake suggested, “Bring your boat to fish and ski.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure the sites can accommodate your RV. A visitor at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground mentioned, “Sites seem to have plenty of room.”
  • Be Aware of Rules: Familiarize yourself with campground rules, especially regarding pets. A camper at Gogebic County Park warned about strict leash laws, saying, “Watch out for the egotistical DNR Officer who throws his weight around when you have a dog.”
  • Plan for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may not have electric hookups. A reviewer at Sparrow Rapids Campground noted, “No drinking water, no electric hookups.”

Camping near Watersmeet, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Watersmeet, MI?

Sylvania (clark Lake) Campground is highly recommended with its beautiful wilderness setting and multiple loops. The sites are spacious with nearby water access, though prepare for crowds on weekends. Another excellent option is Bond Falls Campground, which offers free camping with vault toilets, hand-pump well water, and well-maintained sites with picnic tables and fire pits. For those seeking additional options, Burned Dam Campground and Imp Lake Campground in the Ottawa National Forest provide more rustic experiences near Watersmeet. Remember that Watersmeet is a very small town with limited and costly supplies, so arrive well-prepared.

When is the best season for camping in Watersmeet, Michigan?

Summer (June through August) is the prime camping season in Watersmeet with warm temperatures ideal for swimming and water activities. Early fall (September-October) offers spectacular color viewing as noted by visitors to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, though be prepared for muddy trails. At Ontonagon Township Park and Campground, the lakeside sites are particularly popular during summer months. Late spring (May) can be enjoyable with fewer crowds, though black flies can be present in late summer. Winter camping is available for experienced campers but requires proper preparation for cold temperatures. Overall, early fall offers the best balance of comfortable temperatures and natural beauty with fewer insects.

What outdoor activities can you do while camping in Watersmeet?

Watersmeet offers exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities. Fishing is popular in the numerous lakes and streams, with Clark Lake in Sylvania Wilderness being a prime location. Hiking trails abound, including the trail connecting Spectacle Lake Campground to Kentuck Lake Campground. Water activities like swimming and canoeing are excellent at lakes throughout the area. For spectacular views, visit Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park for backcountry hiking and waterfall viewing. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant throughout the Ottawa National Forest. During winter months, the area transforms for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, making Watersmeet a year-round outdoor destination.