Chicago Lake Campsites
The campground is currently closed for the season. Opens May 15 and operates through Columbus Day with reservations required via Recreation.gov. Walk-ins are not permitted during the reservation season. No fees or reservations required from Columbus Day through May 15.
Repaving Bay Furnace Campground
The Bay Furnace Campground will be temporarily closed for repaving. The closure will occur from mid-May through mid-June, during which time it will be inaccessible. Those traveling in the area should remain alert for work vehicles.Reservations for the campground can be made online at…
Repaving Monocle Lake Campground
The Monocle Lake Campground will be temporarily closed for repaving. The closure will occur from mid-May through mid-June, during which time it will be inaccessible. Those traveling in the area should remain alert for work vehicles.Reservations for the campground can be made online at…
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
Chicago Lake Campsites provide a primitive camping experience on the north shore of Chicago Lake, a 188-acre lake in the Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District of the Hiawatha National Forest. The area features three active campsites (Site 1 has been decommissioned) surrounded by hardwoods and pines. Site 2 is a larger open site measuring 55x45 ft suitable for two families with trailer access. Site 3 is 60x50 ft near the lakeshore among tall pines but has limited turning area for trailers. Site 4 at 55x50 ft accommodates trailers and sits adjacent to the improved gravel boat launch. The lake supports populations of northern pike, bluegills, largemouth bass, and perch. Swimming conditions are best at Sites 3 and 4, fair at Site 2. Loons can be observed and heard on the lake. Amenities are minimal with only primitive pit toilets shared between sites and no drinking water. Campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash. Firewood collection is permitted for dead and down wood only. Horse, bike, and hiking trails are located within minutes of the sites. Bait shops, general stores, gas stations, trailheads, a fishing pier, and kayak/canoe rentals can be found within 20 miles.
Directions
From the intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River or 22 miles west of Manistique), drive north 8.4 miles on Highway 13 to CR 442. Turn right (east) and drive 5 miles to County Road N-3. Turn left (north) on N-3 and drive 0.1 mile to FR 2422, then turn left (northwest) onto 2422 and continue about 0.25 mile to the campsites.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 32ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 32ft |
| 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
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