View of Irwin Lake in the late fall

Widewaters Campground

Open

Open for the 2026 season from May 15 through September 15. Reservations available through Recreation.gov; some sites remain first-come, first-served. Fire danger in the Hiawatha National Forest is currently high.

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…

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…

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…

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

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.

Firewood Restrictions on the Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests

It is illegal to possess or transport firewood from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Special Weather Statement issued May 22 at 3:49AM EDT by NWS Marquette MI

3:49 AM — 8:00 PM

Gusty southeast winds as high as 20 to locally 25 mph, combined with dry conditions will lead to elevated wildfire potential this afternoon across most of Upper Michigan away from the shorelines of the Great Lakes. Avoid outdoor burning today. 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.

About

Widewaters Campground is remotely located on Michigan's Upper Peninsula in the Hiawatha National Forest, sitting on heavily forested land between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. The campground occupies a scenic stretch between Irwin Lake and the Indian River, surrounded by mature hardwoods and a network of smaller lakes. The 35 sites range from heavily wooded and private to more open settings. Each site includes a picnic table and campfire ring, with some sites offering grills. A few waterfront sites provide direct river access. The campground has vault toilets and drinking water, but no hookups or showers. Boat ramps are available at the campground and nearby Fish Lake. The 9-mile Bruno's Run Trail winds past numerous small lakes and passes directly through the campground, offering excellent hiking, mountain biking, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Brook trout fishing is popular in the area's streams and lakes. This quiet campground is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat focused on paddling, fishing, and trail exploration.

Directions

From Munising, Michigan, go east on Michigan Highway 28 for about 3 miles. Turn south on Forest Highway 13 at Wetmore and continue for 12 miles. Turn west onto Forest Road 2262 and follow for about a mile to the campground entrance.

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 $26

Vehicle

Max RV Length 58ft
Max Trailer Length 58ft
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (906) 767-1111

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

View of Irwin Lake in the late fall
USFS signage located off of FR -2262, indicating the location of the Indian River boat launch within the campground
Boat launch into Irwin Lake at the Widewaters Campground
Viewing area at the adjacent Irwin Lake
Signage indicating the Fish Lake boat Launch, adjacent to the Widewaters Campground
Spring view of Irwin Lake adjacent to the Widewaters Campground

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