Little Bass Lake Campsites

Star4.31
26 reviews
8181 US-2
Little Bass Lake Campsites
$8.00 - $9.50 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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

Reservation fees include $8 per night for camping and an additional reservation fee of $9.50 if booked online. Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior Annual Pass holders.
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906-474-6442

About this campground

Discover the hidden gem of Little Bass Lake Campsites, where just five secluded sites await those seeking an authentic wilderness escape. Nestled beside an 84-acre pristine lake, this intimate campground strips away modern distractions, offering only the essentials: crackling fire rings, sturdy picnic tables, and basic facilities. Here, the forest's natural rhythms replace the buzz of crowded campgrounds, creating a sanctuary where solitude and nature reign supreme.
Little Bass Lake Campsites specialize in rustic and dispersed camping experiences, appealing to those who enjoy minimal facilities and remote settings.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations that paint Little Bass Lake in ever-changing hues. Summer unfolds as the perfect camping season, blessing visitors with sun-drenched days and comfortable temperatures ideal for lakeside adventures. As autumn approaches, the forest erupts in brilliant colors before winter's arrival transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, where freezing temperatures and pristine snowfall create a completely different, equally magical experience.
ElevationElevation details are not provided for this campground.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanting world where towering hardwoods mingle with whispering pines, creating a natural cathedral around your campsite. The centerpiece 84-acre Little Bass Lake teems with diverse fish species, offering anglers endless possibilities. As twilight descends, nature's symphony begins: frogs orchestrate from the shoreline while haunting loon calls echo across the water. On still nights, the spine-tingling howl of distant wolves reminds you that you're truly immersed in the wild heart of the forest.
Geological RegionEmbrace the raw beauty of Michigan's Hiawatha National Forest, where Little Bass Lake Campsites occupy a special corner of this vast wilderness preserve. The surrounding landscape showcases the region's characteristic blend of hardy northern hardwoods and evergreen pines, all thriving in the glacially-carved terrain that defines this corner of the Upper Peninsula. The 84-acre lake itself serves as both a thriving aquatic ecosystem and a mirror reflecting the untamed forest that has stood sentinel here for generations.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility options are limited due to the rustic nature of the site. Site 2, for instance, has uneven terrain, making it challenging for certain vehicles and campers.
Sites SizeThe campsites are of standard size, designed to accommodate up to 8 people per site.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites provide varying levels of privacy. "3 of the 5 sites [are] fairly private," according to one review, though some sites are closer together, such as Sites 4 and 5.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 4 is ideal for smaller tents due to grading. Site 5 has excellent lake views but is close to site 4. Site 1 is private but lacks a lake view. Sites 2 and 3 are closer to the lake but may have less privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 4 and 5 are considered the best for lakeside views. Site 3 offers good proximity to the lake, but has reported wolf activity.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group camping is not supported at this location.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of five sites, three of which are lakeside. Sites are moderately spaced for privacy, with fire rings and picnic tables at each.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15, 2025, through October 9, 2025, with reservations available starting June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov either online, via its app, or by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all sites require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made prior to arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting from midnight the day before scheduled check-in) result in forfeiting the first night's recreation fee. No modifications or cancellations are allowed on the day of check-in.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Little Bass Lake Campsites can enjoy a range of recreational activities centered around the serene lake environment. The lake supports swimming, fishing, and boating, though facilities are basic, and no motorized boats are allowed.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available nearby, with trails suited for exploring the surrounding Hiawatha National Forest.
Fishing
The lake offers a productive fishery with largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, black crappies, and perch. Users have described the fishing as "really good," though one noted that swimming areas are limited.
Biking
Biking trails are available within a short drive of the campground.
Boating
A public carry-in boat landing is available, though it can get busy. Motorized boats are not supported.
Wildlife viewing
The campground offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Loons, frogs, and wolves have been noted around the lake.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly supported but the campground is accessible for adventurous visitors.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are suitable for the lake.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed. Firewood must be sourced locally or collected from dead and downed material near the campsite.
  • Quiet hours are not specified but campers report a generally peaceful environment.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include wolves, wasps, and steep access to the lake. Users report minimal swimming opportunities due to lake conditions.

Weather forecast

50
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 78%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 7.1 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Clear sky
7-Day Forecast

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Daily & Hourly Insights

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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are in Rapid River or Manistique, which include hospitals and police stations. For ranger assistance, contact Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 09, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available on-site. Campers are required to pack out all trash. One user suggested adding bear-proof garbage cans.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Little Bass Lake, with a carry-in boat access point.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with outdated maps and site numbers, wasps, steep lake access, and garbage left by previous visitors.

Campground Map

8181 US-2
Driving directionsFrom Manistique, MI: drive north 22 miles on M-94 to County Road 437. Turn left (west) on CR 437 and drive 1.8 miles to FR 2213. Turn left (south) on FR 2213 and drive 1.5 miles to FR 2639. Turn right (west) and follow the road to the campsites.
The campground is accessible via paved and gravel roads. Roads are generally well-maintained, but final access involves navigating gravel forest roads, which can be challenging for larger vehicles. Seasonal conditions may affect accessibility.
Nearby places
Manistique: 22 miles, approximately 30 minutes
Steuben: 5 miles, approximately 10 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Supplies including gasoline, groceries, fishing and camping supplies, boat rentals, ice, and MDNR licenses are available at Steuben, approximately 5 miles northeast on County Road 437.

Camper Reviews

4.3
26 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Little Bass Lake Campsites is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Little Bass Lake Campsites are highly praised for their tranquility, beautiful lake views, and rustic charm. Campers frequently highlight the peaceful environment and excellent fishing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Common positive aspects include the lake's scenic beauty, quiet setting, and well-maintained vault toilets. Many users also appreciated the affordability and serene atmosphere.
Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints primarily focus on the lack of drinking water, steep and uneven terrain at certain sites, and occasional noise from other campers or wildlife.
Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring their own water, firewood, and bug spray. Additionally, it is recommended to carry a detailed map as the road to the campsites can be hard to navigate.
Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping here, with many reviews highlighting the beauty of the lake and surrounding nature. Fall visits are also recommended due to fewer bugs and cooler...
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Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

"A nice, small, quiet campground with a very beautiful lake at the edge." (2022-06-27) "WOLVES! And lots of them. Please be fully aware staying here at night." (2021-10-04) "The lake made for...
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Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 4 and 5 are noted for their proximity to the lake and each other, while Site 1 is praised for its privacy. Site 2 has uneven terrain, making it less ideal for campervans.
Based on 26 reviews

Accessibility Features

Site 2 is difficult for campervans due to uneven terrain. No other specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No explicit pet-related reviews are available.
Based on 26 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Hiawatha National Forest
Little Bass Lake Campsites