Michigan / Newaygo County / Manistee National Forest

Nichols Lake South Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 13 and operates through September 5.

About

Nichols Lake South Campground is located on the south side of 160-acre Nichols Lake within the Huron-Manistee National Forest in Michigan's lower peninsula. The campground provides 29 family sites on paved spurs, each equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. The facility offers flush toilets and showers, making it a comfortable base camp for exploring the area. Nichols Lake is a popular destination for fishing and boating, with a paved boat launch available at the campground. Anglers can fish from shore, the pier, or by boat for bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, black crappie, and northern pike. The accessible fishing pier makes the lake suitable for all visitors. Ice fishing is popular during winter months. A marked swimming area with buoys provides a designated beach, though no lifeguards are on duty. The campground provides access to the North Country National Scenic Trail, which passes through the site near the boat ramp. This 4,600-mile trail offers hiking opportunities for both experienced hikers and casual weekend adventurers. A wood ramp and stairs lead from the campground down to the lake, and a short path along the shore provides additional fishing access. A separate day use area is located on the north side of the lake. The campground is operated by American Land & Leisure, with reservations available through Recreation.gov.

Directions

From White Cloud, take M-37 north for 13 miles. Turn left and travel west on 11 Mile Road for 4.25 miles. The campground is on the right. From Baldwin, take M-37 south for 13.5 miles to 11 Mile Road, turn right, and go west approximately 4.5 miles to the campground entrance.

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