Cookson Lake Campsites
Open for the 2026 season. Operating dates are May 15 through Columbus Day. Reservations required via Recreation.gov at least 24 hours in advance; walk-ins are not permitted. Maximum 14-day stay. Campsites cannot be left unattended for more than 24 hours.
Special Weather Statement issued October 10 at 5:47PM EDT by NWS Marquette MI
Gusty southerly winds as high as 30mph, combined with dry and warm conditions and minimal recent rainfall continue lead to elevated wildfire potential through Sunday across most of the U.P. Obey local burn restrictions. Immediately report any wildfires to local emergency services by calling 911. Burn restrictions remain in effect. For complete details, visit www.dnr.state.mi.us/burnpermits, or by calling 866-922-2876.
Brevoort Lake Autumn Drawdown
Residents of Brevoort Lake should take notice that the Hiawatha National Forest will start the draw down of Brevoort Lake starting in October. The purpose of the draw down is to minimize the development of ice dams during the spring melt. The lake will be drawn down gradually over the next few…
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…
About
Cookson Lake Campsites is a small primitive campground on the south shore of Cookson Lake, a scenic 35-acre lake with two small islands in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Managed by the Munising Ranger District of Hiawatha National Forest, the five campsites occupy a large open field surrounded by mixed aspens and northern hardwoods. Site 1 accommodates up to 8 people while Sites 2-5 each hold up to 16 people. The open layout means minimal privacy between sites. Amenities are basic: each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and one pit toilet serves the area. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Pack-in, pack-out rules apply for trash. A public boat ramp next to Site 2 provides access to the lake's fishery of largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, and bullhead. Only dead and down firewood may be collected; outside firewood is prohibited. The campground sits near the Indian Wild and Scenic River and the Big Island Lake Wilderness Area. Supplies including groceries, ice, and gasoline are available 5 miles east on County Road 437 in the Steuben area.
Directions
From Munising, Michigan: Drive east on M-28 towards Wetmore. Turn right (south) on Forest Highway 13 at Wetmore and drive 11.9 miles to FR 2258. Turn left (southeast) and drive about 2.5 miles to FR 2257 (just before the bridge over the Indian River). Turn left (northeast) on FR 2257 and drive 1.8 miles to the campground access road.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 387-2512 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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