Best Campgrounds near Iron Mountain, MI

Just across the Wisconsin border, Iron Mountain has camping options that range from basic to well-equipped. Bewabic State Park Campground works well for families who want hiking trails and fishing spots nearby. If you're bringing kids, several campgrounds around Iron Mountain have playgrounds and beach areas where children can stay busy. The surrounding area includes both thick forests and quiet lakes that campers can enjoy. Watch out for wildlife like deer and black bears - proper food storage is important in this region. You'll need permits for some activities, and it's smart to check current fire rules before lighting a campfire. Some of the back roads to campgrounds get rough after rain, so higher clearance vehicles do better on these routes. Weather in Iron Mountain includes cold winters and pleasant summers, with spring and fall being good times to camp without extreme temperatures. You can find both rustic sites without amenities and developed campgrounds with modern facilities throughout the area. The lakes and trails give campers plenty to do, whether you want to fish, hike, or just relax in the woods.

Best Camping Sites Near Iron Mountain, Michigan (135)

    1. Summer Breeze Campground

    5 Reviews
    Iron Mountain, MI
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 774-7701

    "A train runs next to the campground but only comes through periodically we were there a week and only saw it twice. Tons to do up here waterfalls caves and the iron mine tour"

    "My husband and I have been traveling around the US and happened on Summer Breeze at the last minute. Nikki and Jerry are wonderfully accommodating, the campground and its facilities are very clean."

    2. Carney Lake State Forest Campground

    5 Reviews
    Norway, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 875-6622

    "Close to Iron Mountain but tucked away in the woods enough to be secluded. We stayed during the week and we're the only site occupied. Very peaceful, lake was very nice"

    "We took a chance on driving 1.5 hours to Carney Lake State Campground and we are pleased that we did. The sites were first-come first-serve and we were lucky to get a site on the lake."

    3. Rivers Bend Campground

    3 Reviews
    Iron Mountain, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 779-1171

    $49 / night

    "I did a lot of research for campgrounds near Iron Mountain Michigan and we were very happy with this campground."

    "We camped here as something to do for my step-dads birthday. We had site’s 100 & 97 from Thursday through Sunday. The river was very nice. The sites were a little uneven but not too bad."

    4. Lake Antoine Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Iron Mountain, MI
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 774-8875

    5. Morgan Park

    5 Reviews
    Pembine, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 732-7530

    "Lots of trees and foliage so sites are at least semi-private - nearby lake for fishing and swimming and hiking trails too!"

    "Located in Marinette county, this park has a lot to offer. Hike the bluffs, swim, fish, blueberry picking, and much more!"

    6. Camping in the Clouds

    5 Reviews
    Florence, WI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 528-5596

    8. Lake Emily Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Florence, WI
    11 miles
    Website

    "I live near this park, so I frequent it. They have recently made improvements to the park area, which make it very kid friendly. The park also has a nice pavilion with picnic tables.   "

    9. Keyes Lake Campground

    2 Reviews
    Florence, WI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 528-4907

    "Right across the road from a lake."

    "Keyes lake was right across the street and the fishing was great. Most certainly will return."

    10. West Bass Lake

    3 Reviews
    Armstrong Creek, WI
    13 miles
    Website

    $25 / night

    "I live near this campground, so I have stayed at almost every site in the park. If you cant have or don't want a lake site, site #4 is the largest. It is almost 35 yards across the front."

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Recent Reviews near Iron Mountain, MI

390 Reviews of 135 Iron Mountain Campgrounds


  • Chelsea B.
    Sep. 4, 2025

    J.W. Wells State Park Campground

    Beautiful and peaceful

    Really nice sites and you can see the water from most of them. Some sites were muddy but I think it was mostly from how busy it was over Labor Day. Facilities are clean and the camp hosts are so sweet (they have matching vests and serve coffee every morning). Really nice recreational activities (basketball, tetherball, horse shoes) and a trail leading to the picnic shelter and sandy swimming beach.

  • 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.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site

    Amazing find

    This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there. There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish. The Sam Cambell trail is right next door, it’s a nice walk to another tiny lake.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Woodbury Lake Campsite

    Sweet spot on small lake

    This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Wolf Lake Campsite

    Beautiful small lake

    I love this campsite. The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach. The parking area is adequate, I’ve seen small trailers set up here. Many hiking trails are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Sevenmile Lake

    Is there really a campground ?

    The Forest Service gives no indication that this campground is in operation. One could hike or boat in to find out, but the road is barricaded at the intersection with parking for the Sevenmile Trail. There is a nice boat launch and clean toilet.


Guide to Iron Mountain

Camping near Iron Mountain, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "This park offers it all! Endless hiking and boating opportunities," highlighting the great trails available at Bewabic State Park Campground.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the local lakes. A review from Carney Lake State Forest Campground noted, "The fishing was great in Gene's Pond," making it a good spot for anglers.
  • ATV Riding: For those who love off-roading, Summer Breeze Campground is close to ATV trails. One visitor shared, "ATV trails are across the interstate. It was a great time!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Governor Thompson State Park Campground stated, "Clean bathrooms, water access, and great campsites that offer privacy."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites. A camper at Bear Lake mentioned, "The sites are large & private with a few waterfront sites."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One review for Paint River Hills Campground said, "The owner was an awesome lady; she helped us find a repair guy for a breakdown."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A camper at Genes Pond State Forest Campground noted, "Make sure to bring in wood before you get here, seemed to not be anyone selling wood bundles near the area."
  • Rustic Conditions: Expect a more rustic experience at some sites. A review for Camping in the Clouds mentioned, "The campground is very rustic; facilities on premise could definitely use some TLC."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. One camper at Silver Lake Resort shared, "The forest is mature and very pretty, deer and other wildlife are abundant."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A review for Morgan Park said, "This park has a lot to offer. Hike the bluffs, swim, fish, blueberry picking, and much more!"
  • Plan for Meals: Bring your own food or check local stores. One camper at Bear Lake advised, "If you forget something, you are better off going to Laona than Wabeno."
  • Pack for Bugs: Be ready for mosquitoes, especially near water. A camper at Carney Lake State Forest Campground noted, "If it were hot, I would imagine a lot of mosquitoes."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Paint River Hills Campground mentioned, "Nice sized sites right out of town but still in the woods."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A camper at Governor Thompson State Park Campground said, "Not many electric sites but nice hiking trails and small lake nearby."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds have gravel roads. A review for Silver Lake Resort mentioned, "The constant dust from passing cars gets old."

Camping near Iron Mountain, Michigan, has something for everyone. Whether you're in an RV or tent, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping available in the Iron Mountain area?

Yes, dispersed camping is available in the Iron Mountain area, primarily in the surrounding national forests. Mountain Lakes Rd Dispersed offers primitive camping opportunities for those seeking a more rugged experience. The nearby Ottawa National Forest and Nicolet National Forest both permit dispersed camping following USFS regulations (camp at least 200 feet from water sources and 1 mile from developed campgrounds). When dispersed camping, be prepared to be self-sufficient with no amenities. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check current forest regulations as they may change seasonally. Permits are not typically required, but stay limits usually apply (typically 14 days within a 30-day period).

What are the best campgrounds near Iron Mountain, Michigan?

The Iron Mountain area offers several excellent camping options. Carney Lake State Forest Campground is close to Iron Mountain yet secluded enough to provide a peaceful experience with a nice lake for recreation. Rivers Bend Campground is another top choice with level sites, shade trees, paved roads, and riverside locations with full hookups including cable. Other notable options include Lake Antoine Park for drive-in camping near water, J.W. Wells State Park for Lake Michigan shoreline access, and Kleinke Park for beach access. Many campgrounds in the area offer a good balance of natural beauty and basic amenities, making them suitable for various camping styles from tent camping to RVs.

What camping amenities and facilities are available at Iron Mountain campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Iron Mountain offer varying levels of amenities. Tranquil~Vista Campground provides extensive facilities with continuous improvements, including access to miles of ATV and side-by-side trails. J.W. Wells State Park Campground features beautiful sandy beaches, playground equipment for children, and waterfront sites on Lake Michigan. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like drinking water, restrooms, and fire rings. Many campgrounds offer RV hookups, with several featuring full hookups including water, electric, and sewer. Shower facilities vary by location, with some parks like West Bass Lake recently installing new shower and flush bathroom facilities. Several campgrounds also provide boat launches, swimming beaches, and hiking trails for recreational activities.