Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping
Open — Open year-round for backcountry camping. Permits required year-round and can be obtained at the Sylvania Entrance Station or trailheads. Reservations required May 15 through September 30. First-come, first-served from October 1 through May 14. Winter access requires skiing or snowshoeing to campsites.
Flood Watch issued April 11 at 1:39PM EDT until April 15 at 8:00AM EDT by NWS Marquette MI
Heavy rain may fall on a deep primed snowpack leading to the melt increasing. Flows in rivers may increase quickly and reach critical levels. * WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of central Upper and western Upper Michigan, including the following areas, in central Upper Michigan, Alger, Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Iron, Luce, Marquette, Menominee, Northern Schoolcraft and Southern Schoolcraft. In western Upper Michigan, Gogebic, Keweenaw, Northern Houghton, Ontonagon and Southern Houghton. * WHEN...From 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ this evening through Wednesday morning. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - www.weather.gov/safety/flood
About
The Sylvania Wilderness encompasses 18,327 acres of primitive lands within the Ottawa National Forest and is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Fifty designated backcountry campsites are scattered along eight lakes throughout the wilderness, accessible only by canoe, kayak, or hiking trails. The area is renowned for its old-growth red and white pines, some reaching record sizes, and 34 named lakes ranging from those with sandy beaches to those surrounded by pristine forest. This is true wilderness camping with no vehicle access to campsites. Visitors must paddle or hike to reach their reserved site, carrying all gear and supplies. The wilderness provides habitat for rare orchids, bald eagles, loons, and osprey. Motorized equipment including motor boats, bicycles, and strollers are prohibited, with limited exceptions for small electric motors on three specific lakes. The area offers excellent opportunities for primitive camping, non-motorized boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and experiencing solitude in a pristine natural setting.
Directions
Wilderness campsites are accessed from Sylvania Recreation Area or from entry points on the perimeter of the wilderness. To reach Sylvania Entrance Station and Recreation Area from Watersmeet, travel approximately 3.5 miles west on US 2 to County Road 535, then drive south on CR 535 approximately 4 miles to the entrance. Campsites are paddle-in or hike-in only.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 358-4724 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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