How much does camping cost at Carr Lake Campsite?

Camping fees at Carr Lake Campsite range from $8/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Carr Lake Campsite first-come first-served or reservation?

Carr Lake Campsite accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Carr Lake Campsite before I book?

Yes! Carr Lake Campsite has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Carr Lake Campsite?

Carr Lake Campsite is open May 15 to October 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Carr Lake Campsite?

Carr Lake Campsite does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Carr Lake Campsite?

Fire policies at Carr Lake Campsite: You are welcome to collect firewood from the area surrounding your campsite. Just remember that any firewood that you collect must be DEAD AND DOWN. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Carr Lake Campsite have?

Carr Lake Campsite has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Carr Lake Campsite?

Pets are not allowed at Carr Lake Campsite. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Carr Lake Campsite?

Popular activities at Carr Lake Campsite include Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Carr Lake Campsite

3.43

24 reviews

RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA

Tent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Michigan

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

679 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The site is open for...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

679 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The site is open for...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT Official Website

Get Directions

Carr Lake Campsite

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $8.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-474-6442 / 906-387-2512

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA

Carr Lake Campsite

RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA

Nearby places

Cooks (approximately 12 miles west of Manistique and 24 miles east of Rapid River).

Weather at Carr Lake Campsite

Current alerts(7)

Campsite cannot be left unattended for more than 24 hours.
Campsite must be occupied the first night.
Click here for more information on the Hiawatha National Forest
Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood.

Best Time to Camp at Carr Lake Campsite

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for swimming, boating, and fishing on Carr Lake — expect daytime highs generally in the mid-60s to low-80s°F (around 65–80°F) with long daylight hours. Water-based activities (bass and panfish fishing, canoeing/kayaking) and hiking the surrounding hardwood and pine trails are at their peak, and the lake is fully thawed for easy access. Crowds are moderate — the site is secluded but popular in July–August, so reserve early and bring insect repell�/ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer reviews most positive; warm weather best for fishing, paddling, swimming (despite poor swim conditions).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The site is open for reservations from May 15 to October 9 annually.

About Carr Lake Campsite

Carr Lake Campsite sits on a small, secluded lake in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, Michigan. Managed by the Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District, this primitive spot offers a handful of lakeside sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Visitors fish for bass and panfish, paddle the quiet water, and enjoy the isolation of the surrounding hardwood and pine forest.

The Carr Lake Campsite is a single, primitive, non-electric campsite offering a basic, rustic camping experience. It is suitable for tent camping and small group gatherings.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for swimming, boating, and fishing on Carr Lake — expect daytime highs generally in the mid-60s to low-80s°F (around 65–80°F) with long daylight hours. Water-based activities (bass and panfish fishing, canoeing/kayaking) and hiking the surrounding hardwood and pine trails are at their peak, and the lake is fully thawed for easy access. Crowds are moderate — the site is secluded but popular in July–August, so reserve early and bring insect repell�/ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation679 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campsite overlooks 16-acre Carr Lake, surrounded by hardwoods and pines at 679 feet elevation. The lake holds largemouth bass, yellow perch, and occasional northern pike. Carr Creek runs nearby with brook trout and brown trout. The forest creates a private setting, though ATV traffic from unmarked roads can interrupt the solitude.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or accommodations are available at this rustic campsite.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this site.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day limit per visit during any time of the year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum capacity is 16 people per site.

Groups

No designated group camping sites are mentioned, though the site can accommodate up to 16 individuals, making it suitable for small groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe site is not ADA accessible. Limited parking may make accessibility challenging for some campers.

Site SizeThe campsite is described as fairly roomy, measuring approximately 70 ft. by 40 ft., and is grassy, making it suitable for two families.

PrivacyThe campsite is considered private and secluded. According to the official description, 'The Carr Lake campsite offers privacy and seclusion.' User reviews affirm this, with one reviewer calling it 'quiet, clean, [and] beautiful.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommendations include bringing supplies for rustic camping, avoiding cars without 4x4 capabilities, and expecting zero cell service.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site. It's roomy and private, with a view of the lake. Parking is limited, and the gravel access road is rough enough that visitors recommend 4x4 vehicles.

Need help booking Carr Lake Campsite?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Carr Lake Campsite offers a very rustic camping experience with absolutely no amenities. According to official sources, 'there are NO toilets or drinking water available.' Visitors are advised to follow a 'pack-in, pack-out policy.' The site is set in a serene, wooded environment, surrounded by hardwood trees and pines, and is situated next to the 16-acre Carr Lake.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Carr Lake Campsite provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, berry picking, and boating. However, swimming conditions are considered poor. The lake supports a fishery for largemouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike, and brook or brown trout. Boating is limited to small watercraft, accessed via a constructed boat slide.

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsThere are no flush toilets at this site.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.4

24 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Carr Lake Campsite has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Carr Lake Campsite receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback emphasizes its solitude, natural beauty, and spaciousness. Negative feedback highlights issues with unregulated ATV traffic, difficulty finding the site, and occasional trash problems.

Review Summaries

Based on 24 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the seclusion and tranquility of the site: 'My favorite campsite by far,' wrote Jay, who valued the isolation and rustic feel. 'Quiet, clean, beautiful,' noted Ann W., who also...

Based on 24 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised include unregulated ATV traffic and trash. Edward G. criticized the site: 'Constant ATV traffic... ATVs should be restricted to ATV trails.' Another complaint came from Dan L., who...

Based on 24 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 is the only available campsite at Carr Lake. It is described as 'spacious and quiet' by Jamie Sutton, though Edward G. noted issues with occasional trash and ATV intrusions.

Based on 24 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend using 4x4 vehicles due to difficult road conditions. Jamie Sutton noted, 'The road going in and out is not meant for cars without 4x4's.' Other tips include preparing for zero cell...

Based on 24 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer receives the most positive reviews due to warm weather and abundant outdoor activities. Fall can bring colder temperatures, as noted by Michael L., who said sleeping conditions were 'cold as...

Based on 24 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Rustic camping for sure with absolutely no amenities. Once stayed for 9 days and never saw a person.' – Jay 2. 'Quiet, clean, beautiful campsite overlooking small lake.' – Ann W. 3. 'I could not...

Based on 24 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility, though the challenging road conditions and lack of facilities suggest limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 24 reviews