Indian Lake Campground
4.337 reviews650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304
Indian Lake Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Camping costs $10 per night for single sites.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Michigan's wilderness, Indian Lake Campground offers an intimate escape where 34 acres of pristine water meet untouched forest. This hidden gem beckons those seeking solitude, where shallow waters reveal sandy bottoms through crystal-clear depths, and native reeds sway gently along the shoreline. Whether you're casting a line into the fish-rich waters or gliding silently in your kayak through the morning mist, this secluded haven promises the kind of peaceful adventure that rejuvenates the soul.
Indian Lake Campground is tailored to primitive tent camping and does not accommodate RVs or allow vehicle parking next to campsites.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil spot remains as quiet as the lake itself, Indian Lake Campground stands as a testament to Michigan's commitment to preserving wild spaces for future generations. Here, the story isn't written in monuments or markers, but in the experiences of countless campers who've found peace beneath these trees and renewal beside these waters.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the fresh awakening of May through the golden days of October, Indian Lake Campground welcomes adventurers to experience nature's full spectrum of moods. Summer brings warm, dry days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons by the water, while autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of amber and crimson. As October wanes, crisp air carries the scent of fallen leaves and morning frost sparkles on tent fabric. When winter arrives, the campground slumbers beneath snow, roads left unplowed to preserve the pristine wilderness until spring's return.
ElevationThe gentle terrain of Indian Lake creates an accessible wilderness experience, where the landscape unfolds in subtle rises and falls that make every campsite feel perfectly positioned. Though specific elevation details await discovery, visitors find themselves immersed in Michigan's characteristic rolling forestland.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the soft splash of a heron fishing in the reeds, sunlight filtering through towering trees that stand sentinel around your campsite. Indian Lake's crystal-clear waters reveal a sandy bottom that invites barefoot wading, while the reed-lined shores create natural sanctuaries for waterfowl and wildlife. The surrounding national forest wraps the campground in a living embrace of oak, maple, and pine, offering hiking opportunities and the profound quiet that only comes from being truly removed from civilization's hum.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Indian Lake Campground showcases the unique character of Michigan's northern lower peninsula. This 34-acre jewel was carved by ancient glaciers that left behind the sandy soils and clear waters that define the region today. The lake's sandy bottom and thriving reed beds tell the story of a healthy ecosystem, while the encircling national forest lands ensure this natural treasure remains protected and pristine for generations of outdoor enthusiasts to discover.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no specific details regarding accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as primitive and do not offer large spaces or vehicle parking directly adjacent.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest the campground offers privacy, such as 'Very private lake' and 'Quiet great lake for kayaking and fishing.'
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest tent camping is ideal, but note that parking next to the sites is not possible.
Best CampsitesNot specified.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
No specific details provided about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOnly three campsites are available; layout not detailed.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 through October 31. Not maintained in winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made through official Huron-Manistee National Forest platforms or by contacting the Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; campground only has 3 sites.
Cancellation PolicyNot specified.
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Lake Campground offers a range of quiet recreational opportunities focusing on fishing, kayaking, swimming, and boating. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are also mentioned by users.
Fishing
Fishing is a notable activity at Indian Lake, though multiple reviewers provide mixed feedback: 'Fishing is fair,' 'Fish are full of grubs,' and others recommend the lake for fishing and kayaking.Swimming
User reviews describe the lake as a quiet place for swimming. However, one reviewer explicitly highlights the lack of a designated beach.Boating
The campground supports both motorized and non-motorized boating, with a dedicated boat launch available. Several users emphasize the suitability of the lake for kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Reviews note the presence of birds and raccoons, aligning with the site's appeal for wildlife enthusiasts. 'Lots of birds to wake up to' is explicitly quoted.Winter Activities
The campground is not maintained in winter, and access roads and parking are not plowed during the off-season.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as kayaking and fishing are popular; boating facilities are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Not specified.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews note that the campground is overrun with snakes and raccoons. Winter visitors should be cautious of unplowed roads.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
51
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station, located at 650 North Michigan Ave., Baldwin, MI 49304. Phone: (231) 745-4631, Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 31.
Trash and recyclingNo information provided on trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresOn Indian Lake, providing easy access to motorized and nonmotorized boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews complain about the lack of a beach, fish in the lake having grubs, and the campground being overrun with snakes and raccoons. Some visitors also found carrying gear to campsites inconvenient due to limited parking accessibility.
HostNo campground host information provided.
Campground Map
650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304
Driving directionsFrom White Cloud, travel north on M-37 for 10 miles. Turn left and travel west on Center Rd. Turn left and travel south on Nagek Dr. for 0.5 miles. At the 'Y' intersection, veer left. Road terminates at site.
The access road to Indian Lake Campground is unpaved and not maintained in winter. The parking lot is not plowed during the off-season, which can make travel challenging for winter visitors.Nearby places
White Cloud (approximately 10 miles), Baldwin (approximately 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, can be found in White Cloud (10 miles away) and Baldwin (15 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.3
7 reviews
Indian Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally describe Indian Lake Campground as quiet and suited for tent camping or kayaking, but some critique the lake's fishing quality and the campground's lack of amenities. Mixed feedback is given about the lake's natural environment, with mentions of snakes and raccoons.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground for its privacy, quiet environment, suitability for kayaking and tent camping, and birdwatching opportunities.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include the absence of a beach, fish quality (e.g., 'Fish are full of grubs'), the presence of snakes and raccoons, and limited amenities such as potable water.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing portable water and being prepared to carry camping gear to sites due to the lack of parking nearby. Kayaking and birdwatching are highly recommended activities.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is recommended for kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. Winter camping is not practical due to the lack of maintenance and plowed roads.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'NO BEACH!!! FISH ARE FULL OF GRUBS & CAMPGROUND IS OVERUN WITH SNAKES & RACOONS.'
2. 'Very private lake, campground only has 3 spots, no ranger. Quiet great lake for kayaking and fishing.'
3....
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback is limited. However, overall reviews indicate there are only three campsites and emphasize the need to carry gear due to parking constraints.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025