Cookson Lake Campsites

About

Cookson Lake Campsites offers a primitive camping experience in the Hiawatha National Forest's wilderness. The campground consists of five rustic sites located in a large open field on the south shore of Cookson Lake, a 35-acre body of water featuring two small islands. The sites are surrounded by a mixed stand of aspens and northern hardwoods, with wildflowers abundant during warmer months. Each campsite is equipped with a table and campfire ring, and one pit toilet serves the campground. Campers must bring their own water as no potable water is available on-site. The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with site 1 able to handle 8-foot units and sites 2-5 accommodating up to 16-foot units. A public boat ramp adjacent to site 2 provides easy lake access for fishing and boating. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, and bullhead. Fish cribs were placed around the islands in 2023 to enhance the fishery. Swimming is also popular in the lake during summer months. The campground is located near the Indian Wild and Scenic River and the Big Island Lake Wilderness Area, offering additional recreation opportunities. Firewood collection is permitted from dead and downed wood surrounding campsites.

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 across the access road.