Bear Lake Campsite
Open seasonally May 15 through Columbus Day for reservations at $8 per night. After Columbus Day through May 15, the site is accessible with no services, no reservations, and no fees.
Restricting Public Entry to Stonington Quarry
Persons with a valid permit; Federal, State, or Local members of rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of official duties; Forest Service employees conducting surveys or monitoring and as approved by the Forest Supervisor.Protection of objects and areas that are of significant…
Haymeadow Trail and Bridge Closed
The Haymeadow Creek Hiking Trail Bridge is closed until it can be repaired or replaced. -- Located on the hiking loop near Haymeadow Creek Dispersed Campsites, the bridge failed an inspection due to significant rot. We will update this notice as repairs are implemented. (4/2018),(4/2021).The…
Drug and Alcohol Use on the Hiawatha National Forest
It is illegal to possess, utilize, or distribute a control substance or any associated paraphernalia. It is also illegal to possess or consume alcohol in violation of any state of Michigan statute
Fire Restrictions within the Hiawatha National Forest
Outlines the fire restrictions and conditions within the Hiawatha National Forest.
Roads and Trails Restrictions for Vehicles in the Hiawatha National Forest
It is illegal to commercial haul without a permit. It is illegal to violate posted speed, load, weight, height, length, width or other limitations specified by Michigan State Law. It is illegal to operate a vehicle carelessly, recklessly, or without regard for the rights or safety of other persons…
Occupancy and Use Within the Hiawatha National Forest
This order outlines the restrictions and conditions of camping within the Hiawatha National Forest.
Firewood Restrictions on the Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests
It is illegal to possess or transport firewood from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
About
Bear Lake Campsite offers a secluded, rustic camping experience on a 21-acre lake deep in the Hiawatha National Forest. Perched high on a hill overlooking the water, this single campsite is surrounded by spectacular paper birch, aspen, and oak trees, providing a wonderfully serene and peaceful forest setting. The lake features a carry-in boat launch at the day use area on the south end, intentionally designed to help preserve the excellent brook trout fishery that is maintained through annual stocking. A boat launch is also available on the east side of the lake via FR 2633. The campsite is small with a very tight turning radius, making it suitable for only one family with a tent or small trailer. This is a true rustic experience with no drinking water or restroom facilities provided. Campers should be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all trash. Visitors can enjoy berry picking, fishing (Michigan fishing license required), and limited swimming. Groceries, gasoline, fishing and camping supplies are available five miles northeast on County Road 437 in the Thunder Lake Area. The surrounding forest offers numerous horse, bike, and hiking trails within minutes of the site.
Directions
From Cooks on US-2 (about 12 miles west of Manistique or 24 miles east of Rapid River), drive north 4.4 miles on County Road 442 to CR 437. Turn left on CR 437 and drive 8.7 miles to FR 2217. Turn left on FR 2217 and drive 2.4 miles to FR 2696. Turn left on 2696 and drive 0.5 mile to the campsite.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 24ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 24ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 474-6442 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
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