Boulder Junction's campgrounds sit within the 225,000-acre Northern Highland American Legion State Forest where over 900 lakes dot the landscape. Temperatures drop into the 30s during spring and fall nights, with summer highs typically reaching 75-85 degrees. Sites throughout Northern Highland campgrounds accommodate various camping styles ranging from primitive tent sites to those with basic electrical access.
What to do
Biking on paved trails: The network of paved bicycle paths connects multiple campgrounds to nearby towns. At South Trout Lake Campground, "Ride towards Boulder Junction and there are beautiful spots to stop and enjoy. Several benches can be found or just keep going all the way to town. This paved path is perfect for walking too- we did several miles a day with our dog," notes Art S.
Fishing in clear waters: Local lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities with varying regulations. According to Chad P. about Crystal Lake Campground, "This place brings back beautiful childhood memories. Fishing around the Big lake and even losing an anchor or 2 along the way. Sites are very wooded and quiet and clean."
Stargazing from open sites: Clear skies and minimal light pollution make for excellent night viewing. Rebecca B. mentions at Crystal Lake, "Loved this site. Big open site. Great for star viewing. In between two great lakes. With hiking, biking trails. Loons will sing you to sleep."
What campers like
Lake access: Many sites offer direct water access or short trails to the shoreline. At North Trout Lake Campground, "We arrived on a Thursday and were able to snag one of the much-coveted lakeside sites for a private view of the sunset. Sites were level and clean and it never got busy for the weekend," reports Stephanie F.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. Rebecca B. notes about Crystal Lake, "Beautiful crystal clear lake. Loons common. Great sites on the water. On bike and hiking trails. Great for swimming and kayaking."
Beach areas: Several campgrounds maintain sandy beaches for swimming. At Upper Gresham Lake Campground, "Site 1515 has a separate tent nook and its own short trail going downhill to the lakeshore," according to Art S.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All sites now require advance booking. "New rules say that you must have reservations but we had cell service so you can do things when you show up if there's room," mentions Art S. about Firefly Lake Campground.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between locations. Mary notes about Firefly Lake, "Cell phone service is minimal with Verizon. We could send and receive texts."
Seasonal considerations: Fall offers unique advantages but with cooler temperatures. Scott M. says about Upper Gresham Lake, "Best time to camp here is in the fall as the leaves were great!"
Traffic noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise. Heather M. mentions about North Trout Lake, "Loved the water view from our campsite, unfortunately on the other side was the main entrance and a highway so vehicular traffic sound was prominent."
Tips for camping with families
Motor-free lake options: For safer paddling experiences with children, consider lakes with motor restrictions. A review from Bryan G. states about Crystal Lake, "This is one of my favorite campgrounds. It has a Great Lake for kids and good biking. Sites on the lake are difficult to get but worth the effort."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Boulder Junction: Most Northern Highland campgrounds welcome pets with standard leash requirements. Scott M. notes about Razorback Lake Campground, "We walked right across the road into the Aurora Lake State Natural Area. The road ends at another boat launch but it gave us a secluded 1.4 mile walk."
Ice cream destinations: Plan excursions to nearby local treats. Mark E. notes about Firefly Lake, "You definitely have to go visit the Corner Store just a few miles down the road for some delicious ice cream!"
Tips from RVers
Generators allowed: Firefly Lake permits generators during specific hours. According to Mary, "Generators allowed from 10 am to 5 pm."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have onsite dump facilities. Mary adds about Firefly Lake, "Dump and clean water available at next campground, Crystal Lake, which is a mile away."
Electricity options: For RVers needing hookups, Camp Holiday Campground offers more amenities. Zach P. reports, "They have water and electricity every site available which is nice but not necessary for us. Definitely be coming back here we had fun."