Monocle Lake
Currently closed for a Forest Service paving project. Reopens June 12, 2026. The season runs through September 13. Reservations available via Recreation.gov.
From Recreation.gov
Opening day for Monocle Lake has been postponed to June 12th, 2026, due to a Forest Service paving project. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.
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…
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…
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…
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.
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
Grand Island Occupancy and Use
This order outlines the restrictions and conditions of camping and recreating at Grand Island National Recreation Area.
Restricting the use of watercraft on the Indian River
Watercraft use is restricted in within the Wild and Scenic Corridor of the Indian River.
Use of Wilderness areas
Restrictions in Wilderness areas include storing equipment, personal property, and supplies; use or possession of a vehicle or wagon.
Occupancy and use of Big Island Lake Wilderness
Restrictions will be enforced in Big Island Lake Wilderness area for campfires, camping, groups, horses, and sanitation.
Occupancy and use of Lake Superior Shoreline
Camping is prohibited along the Lake Superior shoreline in areas of the Sault Ste. Marie Ranger District near Whitefish Bay and Lakeshore Drive.
Restrictions on entry to any beach posted closed
Entry is restricted to beach that is roped off, signed "closed to entry" in certain areas of the St. Ignace, Manistique, and Rapid River Ranger Districts.
Firewood Restrictions on the Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests
It is illegal to possess or transport firewood from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Restrictions on the use of fireworks
Use of fireworks is prohibited across the Hiawatha National Forest.
About
Monocle Lake Campground sits on the southern shore of 172-acre Monocle Lake in the northeastern corner of Hiawatha National Forest. The campground offers 42 sites nestled among aspen, maple, birch, and pine trees, providing scenic lake and forest views. All sites feature hardened surfaces with picnic tables, fire rings with grills, and lantern posts. Pressurized drinking water and accessible vault toilets are distributed throughout. The campground serves as an excellent base camp, located halfway between the Soo Locks and Whitefish Point, and less than two miles from the historic Point Iroquois Lighthouse. Anglers can fish from the campground's dock or launch boats at the ramp between the campground and day-use area. Two man-made reefs just offshore provide productive fishing for walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. The 14.5-mile Monocle Lake Trail traverses the campground along the shore. The first 1,100 feet follows an elevated accessible boardwalk, and a 2-mile interpretive loop begins at the day-use parking area. More adventurous hikers can connect to the Binnobbin Trail leading to Spectacle Lake overlook.
Directions
From Bay Mills, travel west on County Road 42 (Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway) for approximately half a mile, then turn south on Forest Road 3699 to the campground entrance. Address: 12600 E Lakeshore Drive, Brimley, MI 49715.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $24 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 80ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 80ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 203-9872 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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