Lake Ottawa Campground
4.3517 reviews2832 Lake Ottawa Road
Lake Ottawa Campground
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for standard non-electric sites are $22 per night during peak season from May 23 to September 30. Day-use fees are $5 per vehicle per day or $30 for an annual pass.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Ottawa National Forest, Lake Ottawa Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the authentic charm of Michigan's northwoods. Here, towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral where sunlight filters through the canopy, while the pristine waters of Lake Ottawa shimmer just steps away. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear depths, paddling through morning mist, or exploring winding mountain bike trails, this historic retreat seamlessly blends Depression-era craftsmanship with modern camping comforts, offering the perfect basecamp for your Upper Peninsula adventure.
This campground caters to a variety of campers by offering traditional non-electric campsites, electric-equipped sites, and areas for tent camping. Group site accommodations are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Lake Ottawa Campground, where the legacy of America's Greatest Generation lives on in every weathered beam and stone foundation. Built by the skilled hands of Civilian Conservation Corps workers during the Great Depression, this campground stands as a testament to resilience and craftsmanship. The original CCC-built picnic shelter and recreation building remain centerpieces of the grounds, their rustic architecture telling stories of young men who transformed wilderness into welcoming spaces that continue to bring joy to families nearly a century later.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives with warm, golden days perfect for swimming and hiking, while gentle breezes carry the scent of pine through your campsite. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a tapestry of blazing colors, though late summer rains may occasionally sweep through, adding a refreshing coolness to the air and creating temporary challenges on backcountry trails. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, turning the campground into a serene wonderland for those brave enough to embrace the cold.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain unrecorded in historical documents, the campground's position within the rolling terrain of the Ottawa National Forest provides varied topography that enhances both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities throughout the grounds.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where ancient hardwoods stretch skyward, their branches creating a verdant tapestry overhead. The campground's crown jewel, Lake Ottawa, reveals itself as a pristine gem of the northwoods—its deep, cold waters so clear you can count pebbles on the bottom near shore. This glacially-carved lake provides a stunning backdrop for morning coffee and evening campfires, while the surrounding forest offers endless exploration opportunities among ferns, wildflowers, and moss-covered logs that harbor countless woodland secrets.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of the Ottawa National Forest, the campground occupies a remarkable landscape shaped by ancient glaciers and nourished by abundant water. This is waterfall country, where cascading streams tumble over rocky ledges throughout the surrounding wilderness. The region's complex hydrology includes everything from bubbling springs to serene wetlands, with both permanent streams and seasonal waterways creating a dynamic ecosystem. Lake Ottawa itself exemplifies the area's glacial heritage—a deep, cold-water sanctuary carved by ice age forces and now home to thriving populations of fish in its oxygen-rich depths.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not provide specific information about accessibility features, but the presence of paved roads and a pressurized water system suggests some infrastructure considerations.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large and private, especially the electric sites. Tent sites offer waterfront views.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites offer privacy, and several have lake views. A user review notes, "Most campsites here offer plenty of privacy and a fair amount have lake views."
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNon-electric waterfront sites are recommended for superior views. Electric sites provide privacy and space.
Best CampsitesSite #14 is highly rated for lake views but noted for uneven pads. Site #24 is recommended for its historic setting and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of eight people and two motorized vehicles allowed per campsite.
Groups
Group site accommodations are not explicitly mentioned in the provided data.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of one loop with 32 sites, some offering lake views and others nestled in the forest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 23 to September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through recreation.gov or via their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible but limited; reservations are strongly recommended during peak season as sites fill quickly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to the day of check-in incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds are issued after check-in.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Ottawa Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including access to hiking, fishing, swimming, biking, and boating. Additional activities include wildlife viewing and enjoying the day-use facilities.
Hiking
The Ge-Che Trail, approximately 9 miles long, offers scenic views of a primarily hardwood forest. It can be accessed both from the boat landing and within the campground. User reviews describe the hiking opportunities as substantial.Fishing
Lake Ottawa, a deep cold-water lake, provides a good variety of game fish, making it a favorable destination for anglers.Swimming
A swimming beach is available in the day-use area adjacent to the campground. The beach is noted for its accessibility and clear water.Biking
Mountain biking is an available activity, with trails like the Ge-Che Trail offering opportunities for exploration.Boating
There is a boat ramp with ample parking for trailers, facilitating boating activities on Lake Ottawa.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding Ottawa National Forest provides opportunities for observing a variety of local wildlife species.Beach activities
The campground features a swimming beach that allows for sunbathing and other water-related activities.Winter Activities
There is no explicit mention of winter-specific recreational opportunities for this campground.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are explicitly mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, and water hazards at Lake Ottawa. Occasional inclement weather such as heavy rainfall may affect trails and campsite accessibility.
Active alertsAlerts are posted at the facility website; visitors should verify current conditions before arriving.
Weather forecast
46
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Iron River, MI, has the nearest emergency services including hospitals and police stations. The Iron River Ranger Station provides additional resources.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but there is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Ottawa with access to a boat ramp, swimming beach, and fishing dock.
Common complaintsSome guests have noted uneven campsite pads that may require leveling RVs, occasional water system outages, and disruptive behavior from other campers including fireworks and unleashed dogs.
HostCampground hosts, such as Bill (a retired Naval officer), are frequently praised for their helpfulness, maintaining cleanliness, and providing assistance with site issues.
Campground Map
2832 Lake Ottawa Road
Driving directionsFrom Iron River, MI, travel west on US 2, turn south on M 73, travel approximately 3/4 mile, turn west on Lake Ottawa Road and travel approximately 4 miles to the campground. From Watersmeet, MI, travel 28 miles east on US 2, turn south on M 73, travel approximately 3/4 mile, turn west on Lake Ottawa Road and travel approximately 4 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Roads leading into the campground are maintained but some areas may be seasonally affected, with occasional challenges such as rain damaging access routes.Nearby places
Iron River, MI - 5 miles southwest. Watersmeet, MI - 28 miles east.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained at Iron River, MI, located 5 miles northeast of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
17 reviews
Lake Ottawa Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally describe Lake Ottawa Campground as a serene and scenic location with clean facilities and pleasant hosts. Most reviews highlight the privacy of campsites, the quality of the lake for recreation, and the well-maintained amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, friendly campground hosts, beautiful lake views, and a variety of recreational activities stand out as highlights. Many users also gave positive remarks about the large and private...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some complaints include issues with site leveling, gravel piles at campsites, and occasional problems with water availability. One user mentioned their disappointment with the lack of showers.
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing extra leveling blocks for RVs and preparing for a lack of showers. It is also recommended to enjoy the hiking trails and explore the lake by kayak.
Based on 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most favored season for visits, with users appreciating the swimming beach, hiking trails, and clean facilities. One user lamented the rain's impact on their experience, indicating...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Wow! What a beautiful campground! Definitely a hidden gem for Iron River MI." "Most campsites here offer plenty of privacy and a fair amount have lake views." "The restrooms here were cleaned every...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14 received several mentions. While one review noted issues with leveling due to gravel, others referred to it positively for its beauty and proximity to amenities. Site #24 was praised for its...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features, though hosts are described as helpful and accommodating.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted at the campground, but one user noted an issue with other visitors not leashing their dogs.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025