Swan Lake Campsites
4.2919 reviewsRapid River/Manistique Ranger District, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Swan Lake Campsites
$8.00 - $8.00 / 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
A nightly fee of $8 applies to standard non-electric campsites. Additional reservation service fees may apply ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Hiawatha National Forest, Swan Lake Campsites beckons adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. Here, towering hardwoods mingle with whispering pines to create a natural cathedral where time slows down. Wake to the gentle lapping of pristine waters against the shore, spend sun-drenched afternoons diving into crystal-clear swimming holes, and cast your line into waters teeming with promise. This rustic paradise offers the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and recreational abundance.
Swan Lake Campsites are rustic and cater to primitive camping. The sites are suitable for tent camping, horse camping, and small trailers.
Historical SignificanceFor generations, Swan Lake has served as a cherished gathering place where family traditions are born and memories etched in time. The rhythmic clip-clop of horses along forest trails echoes a heritage of equestrian adventurers who have long called these woods their playground. Parents who once roasted marshmallows here as children now watch their own kids discover the same hidden swimming spots and secret trails, weaving new chapters into Swan Lake's enduring story.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Swan Lake with its own distinctive palette. Summer arrives with balmy days perfect for splashing in the lake's refreshing waters and lazy afternoons beneath the forest canopy. As autumn approaches, the surrounding hardwoods burst into a symphony of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges, while crisp mornings invite cozy campfires and hot coffee. Though occasional rain showers sweep through the forest, bringing the earthy scent of pine and fresh moss, visitors should note that logging activities may temporarily affect road conditions during wet periods.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain nature's closely guarded secret, Swan Lake rests comfortably within Michigan's gentle topography, offering easy access and comfortable camping conditions for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crown jewel of this forest sanctuary is Swan Lake itself—169 acres of shimmering water that mirrors the sky and surrounding forest in perfect tranquility. Dense woodland corridors open unexpectedly to reveal breathtaking vistas across the water, while the renowned Pine Marten Run Trail winds through the landscape like a ribbon of adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for industrious beavers engineering their watery domains, and don't be surprised to share the trails with fellow equestrian enthusiasts exploring this horse-friendly paradise.
Geological RegionSwan Lake lies at the heart of the Hiawatha National Forest's captivating landscape, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a tapestry of small inland lakes cradled by rolling forests. This pristine pocket of Michigan wilderness showcases the region's characteristic mix of hardy northern hardwoods and evergreen pines, all connected by the non-motorized Pine Marten Run Trail system. Here, the forest floor tells stories written in moss-covered stones and meandering streams, creating an intimate, rustic environment that feels worlds away from modern life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails about accessibility features for campers with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeSite 1: 60 ft x 30 ft; Site 2: 65 ft x 50 ft; Site 3: 65 ft x 35 ft; Site 4: 80 ft x 70 ft.
Sites PrivacySite 1 is isolated and overlooks the lake from a hill. Sites 3 and 4 are adjacent and can be reserved together for larger groups. Site 2 is slightly separated from sites 3 and 4 but offers a private camping experience.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is ideal for single families and privacy. Sites 3 and 4 can be reserved together for larger groups. Site 2 is suitable for small trailers but has limited turn-around space.
Best CampsitesSite 1 is highly appreciated for its privacy and lake views. Sites 3 and 4 are adjacent and suitable for groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Site 1: Maximum 8 people
- Sites 2-4: Maximum 16 people.
Groups
Sites 3 and 4 are adjacent and can be reserved together to accommodate larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSite 1 is isolated; Sites 2-4 are on the southwest and eastern shores, with Sites 3 and 4 adjacent to each other.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15th, reservable June 21st to October 9th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is not explicitly stated. Reservations are encouraged due to high demand, particularly at Swan Lake.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made prior to the scheduled check-in date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will incur an additional penalty of forfeiting the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Swan Lake Campsites offer a variety of activities, including swimming, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and boating. The campground is located near the non-motorized Pine Marten Run Trail, a highlight for hikers. Berry picking is also an option during certain times of the year.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from all sites, including the Pine Marten Run Trail. Howard S praised the hiking experience and noted, "Great hiking within the Pine Marten Preserve, and very few people wandering through due to the restricted access."Fishing
Swan Lake provides fishing opportunities for bass, bluegills, and pumpkinseeds. Fishing licenses are required in Michigan waters. Alan B enjoyed kayaking and fishing, calling Swan Lake "beautiful."Swimming
Swimming areas are highly rated at Swan Lake. "All campsites on Swan Lake have excellent swimming areas," according to the forest description. Warm water and easy access are noted by campers.Biking
There are biking trails within minutes of several campsites. Details regarding difficulty and terrain are not specified.Boating
Boating is supported via a public boat launch near Site 1. Sebastian G noted that while the boat launch is convenient, it may reduce privacy at Site 1.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to see beavers, as noted by Carol H.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation activities are outlined in the source materials.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular. Alan B noted that kayaking was enjoyable.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood collection is permitted but must be dead and down. Outside firewood is not allowed to prevent invasive pests.
Hazards
General hazardsLogging debris on access roads, uneven camp areas, and poor horse manure management have been reported. Horse areas are poorly drained, leading to water accumulation in rainy conditions.
Active alertsLogging activity and road debris have caused accessibility issues. Flies are abundant during warm temperatures, attributed to manure mismanagement.
Weather forecast
45
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 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
Nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Rapid River, MI.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15th through October 9th.
Trash and recyclingNo formal trash or recycling facilities are mentioned; visitors must adhere to the pack-in, pack-out policy.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Swan Lake with a public boat launch at Site 1 and accessible swimming areas.
Common complaintsIssues with horse manure management, logging activity affecting campsite access, limited trailer space at Site 2, and uneven grounds at some sites.
HostCampground hosts are described as helpful and kind by campers.
Campground Map
Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Driving directionsFrom the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River): drive north 19 miles on Highway 13 to CR 440. Turn right (east) and drive 2.7 miles to FR 2258. Turn left (north) on 2258 and drive 0.25 mile to FR 2725. To reach sites 2-4: Turn left (east) onto FR 2725. Drive about 0.75 mile on FR 2725 to reach the sites. To reach site 1: Drive about 1.3 miles north on FR 2258 to FR 2013. Turn right (east) on FR 2013 and drive about 0.7 mile to the site.
The access roads to the Swan Lake campsites are mixed quality. Logging debris has been noted on nearby roads, and limited turn-around space is available for trailers, particularly at Site 2.Nearby places
Rapid River: 14 miles, Steuben: approximately 10 miles (exact distance not provided).
Nearby supplies
General and grocery stores, gas stations, bait shops, a pay phone, trailheads, fishing pier, biking trails, and kayak/canoe rentals are within one mile of the Swan Lake campsites.
Camper Reviews
4.3
19 reviews
Swan Lake Campsites is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the serene environment, excellent swimming areas, and rustic charm. However, issues such as logging activity, horse manure management, and lack of amenities like drinking water are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
"Amazing view," noted Laura C during fall camping. "Clean campsite, private when boat launch not in use," shared Lois L. "We love camping here because you get a true camping experience," shared...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Logging activity disrupting access roads was mentioned by James G. Alan B criticized uneven camping areas and poorly maintained horse areas. Carol H expressed disappointment with horse manure...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent, especially in summer. Howard S suggested visitors might want to "put your phone in airplane mode and save on your battery" due to the lack of cell service. Laura K...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is praised for its colors, as noted by Howard S: "The fall colors were just about peaking." In summer, mosquitoes are abundant but swimming and kayaking are enjoyable. Winter trends are not...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Had a wonderful time at Camp Site 1. The weather was unseasonably warm for mid-September," shared Howard S. "Site 2 has plenty of shade," commented James D. "Nice swimming access, warm water," Iryna...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is described as isolated and peaceful by James D. Site 2 offers plenty of shade and privacy but has limited turn-around space for trailers, according to Alan B. Sites 3 and 4 are adjacent and...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are a welcome addition at the campsites. "Our dog loved it!" exclaimed Iryna O.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025