Soldier Lake
4.6257 reviews23998 M-28, Brimley, MI, 49715, USA
Soldier Lake
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
The nightly fee for standard nonelectric campsites is $24 during peak and first-come, first-served seasons. Fee excludes discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Soldier Lake Campground, where towering pines whisper secrets and a pristine 15-acre lake mirrors the sky. This hidden gem in Michigan's wilderness offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and natural beauty, with campsites thoughtfully tucked among the forest canopy. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV, you'll find peace in this quiet sanctuary. Two inviting sandy beaches beckon for afternoon swims, while the legendary North Country National Scenic Trail promises adventures just steps from your campsite. With essential amenities like vault toilets and fresh drinking water, you can disconnect from the modern world without sacrificing comfort.
Soldier Lake Campground offers rustic camping options suitable for tents and RVs. It does not provide modern amenities or luxury camping accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Soldier Lake unfold with brilliant sunshine filtering through the forest canopy, punctuated by refreshing afternoon showers that leave the air crisp and pine-scented. The moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for everything from morning hikes to lazy afternoons by the water. While the campground's reservation season ends before autumn's grand finale, early fall visitors might catch the first hints of nature's color show as maples begin their annual transformation.
ElevationNestled at the gentle elevations characteristic of Michigan's Upper Peninsula forests, the campground rests in a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers and time. This comfortable altitude provides a perfect balance of accessibility and that authentic 'up north' feeling that draws visitors back year after year.
Natural Features and SceneryNature puts on a spectacular show at Soldier Lake, where stately pines, shimmering aspens, and majestic maples create a living cathedral around the campground. The centerpiece 15-acre lake serves as a mirror to the sky, its calm waters reflecting clouds by day and stars by night. This thriving ecosystem pulses with life – from the evening chorus of frogs and toads to the rustling of small mammals in the underbrush. Every sunrise brings new discoveries, whether it's mist rising from the lake or a deer pausing at the water's edge.
Geological RegionSoldier Lake Campground sits in the heart of Michigan's storied Upper Peninsula, a land where ancient geological forces carved out a paradise of forests and lakes. Here, amid groves of pine, aspen, and maple that have stood sentinel for generations, the 15-acre Soldier Lake sparkles like a jewel in the wilderness crown. This is quintessential UP country – where the bedrock of the Canadian Shield meets the softer sediments of the Michigan Basin, creating the diverse landscape that makes this region a natural wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are marked as accessible. Some reviewers suggest the campground is generally well-maintained, though steep pathways were noted as hazards in particular campsites.
Sites SizeReviewers consistently praise the large and spacious campsites, which are ideal for families and provide ample room for tents, hammocks, kayaks, and other gear.
Sites PrivacyThe sites provide a good level of privacy, separated by trees and vegetation. Several reviewers noted the quiet and tranquil atmosphere of the campground.
Total Campsites48 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites away from MI-28 for less noise. Lakeside sites such as #05 and #21 offer direct access and views but may have dead bushes near shoreline.
Best CampsitesSites #44 and lakeside sites such as #05, #21, and #16 are praised for their views, size, and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is unspecified.
Groups
Group camping options are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are well-spaced with loops designed to provide privacy. Paved roads within the campground.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 23 to September 14 for peak season. It is closed from September 15 to May 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, the contact center, and the mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available during offseason from May 15 to May 21.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified up to 3 times for a $10 change fee, and cancellation refunds subtract a $10 cancellation fee along with the first night’s recreation fee for late cancellations. Cancellations should be made at least 7 days prior for full refunds.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Soldier Lake Campground features a range of outdoor activities, including non-motorized boating, swimming, hiking, and fishing. Two sandy beaches within the campground provide designated swimming areas. The North Country National Scenic Trail is accessible from the campground's day-use area, offering hiking opportunities.
Hiking
The North Country National Scenic Trail runs through the area, providing access to scenic hiking routes. Several reviewers appreciated the variety of trails and their natural beauty.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Soldier Lake, though specific fish types and conditions are not detailed in authoritative or user reviews.Swimming
Two sandy beaches offer designated swimming areas. Some campsites provide direct access to the lake. However, swimming from certain lakefront sites may be limited by vegetation along the shoreline.Boating
Non-motorized boating, such as kayaking, is allowed on Soldier Lake. Reviewers frequently mention bringing kayaks and enjoying the serene water views.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is notable for frogs, toads, and general forest fauna. Some reviewers mentioned the peaceful natural setting.Beach activities
Two sandy beaches allow for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors appreciated the relaxing atmosphere and scenic views.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned or encouraged in reviews, and the campground is closed during the winter season.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing, which are popular among visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Visitors are discouraged from bringing firewood from outside to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced at night; some reviews mention issues with compliance from neighbors.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep walkways near sites 27 and 28 may pose risks, as noted in user reviews. Wildlife encounters and falling branches are occasional hazards.
Weather forecast
48
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 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
The nearest hospital and emergency services are in Sault Ste. Marie, approximately 29.5 miles northeast.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 14, 2025; May 22, 2026 - September 13, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available on-site, but recycling options are not explicitly mentioned. Campers are encouraged to keep wildlife safe by disposing of garbage properly.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground surrounds Soldier Lake, a 15-acre natural lake with non-motorized boating and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention dirty bathrooms and problematic hosts. Noise from MI-28 highway and loud neighbors during quiet hours have been noted.
HostThe camp hosts are generally described as helpful and friendly, although specific complaints about one host have been mentioned.
Campground Map
23998 M-28, Brimley, MI, 49715, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sault Ste. Marie, take I-75 approximately 8 miles south to Exit 386. Turn right onto M-28 and travel 21.5 miles west to Forest Road 3138. Turn left and continue less than a mile to the campground.
The roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible year-round. Less than a mile from Forest Road 3138 to the campground site.Nearby places
Strongs is 7 miles west
Sault Ste. Marie is approximately 29.5 miles northeast.
Nearby supplies
Strongs, 7 miles west, offers a fuel station, restaurants, and a general store.
Camper Reviews
4.6
57 reviews
Soldier Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to Soldier Lake. While many campers praise the hosts and amenities, there are occasional complaints about noise, cleanliness, and host behavior.
Review Summaries
Based on 57 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, large campsites, excellent lake access, quiet surroundings, and helpful hosts. Many users enjoyed activities like kayaking, hiking, and swimming.
Based on 57 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include instances of loud neighbors violating quiet hours, limited lake access for kayaks at certain sites, traffic noise from nearby MI-28, and occasional reports of dirty toilet...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend choosing lakefront campsites for better views and water access, bringing supplies for non-electric camping, and considering earplugs for sites near MI-28 due to traffic noise.
Based on 57 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall reviews praise the quiet atmosphere and scenic foliage, while summer reviews often emphasize lake activities and the campground's popularity. Occasional complaints about mosquitoes are mentioned...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The campground was beautiful and possibly the cleanest I've ever experienced. Our large site, fronting on the lake, was even raked when we arrived!" - Monika L.
2. "Soldier Lake was a great...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #05: Highlighted for its lakefront view and spaciousness.
Site #21: Praised for its large size and cleanliness.
Site #17: Criticized for being filthy upon arrival and poor host...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility received mixed reviews. Vault toilets are accessible, but steep pathways near lakefront sites raise safety concerns.
Based on 57 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews, leaving policies unclear.
Based on 57 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025