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

Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite before I book?

Yes! Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite?

Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite?

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

Can I have a campfire at Clear Lake Campsite?

Fire policies at Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite have?

Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite?

Pets are not allowed at Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite?

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

Clear Lake Campsite

3.90

36 reviews

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

Top 25% in MIFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds Michigan

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

778 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open between May 15,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

778 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open between May 15,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Clear Lake Campsite

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-474-6442 OR 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

Clear Lake Campsite

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

Nearby places

Shingleton: 11 miles south (approx. 15 minutes)

Manistique: 24 miles north (approx. 30 minutes).

Weather at Clear 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 Clear Lake Campsite

Best season: fall. Fall offers the clearest advantage — crisp, colorful days and greatly reduced bugs make lakeside camping and forest hikes most pleasant. Expect daytime highs in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (about 45–65°F) in September and early October with nights often dropping to the 30s–40s°F, perfect for campfires, photography and wildlife viewing. Foliage peaks in late September to early October and fishing/boating remain very good while overall crowd levels are low compared with mid-summer. Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in MI

Fall is highlighted as the standout season: clear weather, fewer bugs, ideal conditions in Sept–early Oct.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open between May 15, 2025, and October 9, 2025. Reservations are available starting June 21, 2025.

About Clear Lake Campsite

Clear Lake Campsite sits on a quiet lake in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, Michigan. This primitive Forest Service spot offers a handful of sites with fire rings for tent and RV campers seeking direct water access. Reviewers praise the sunsets and serene setting, though the adjacent boat launch brings occasional daytime traffic.

Clear Lake Campsite is a primitive, single-site camping area designed for self-sufficient campers. It is suitable for tent camping and RVs but lacks group or luxury camping options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the clearest advantage — crisp, colorful days and greatly reduced bugs make lakeside camping and forest hikes most pleasant. Expect daytime highs in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (about 45–65°F) in September and early October with nights often dropping to the 30s–40s°F, perfect for campfires, photography and wildlife viewing. Foliage peaks in late September to early October and fishing/boating remain very good while overall crowd levels are low compared with mid-summer. Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation778 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campsite sits at 778 feet elevation in mixed hardwood and pine forest overlooking Clear Lake. The lake itself is clear and calm, popular for fishing and kayaking. One visitor noted the sunsets are exceptional from this spot. The surrounding Hiawatha forest offers trails through dense woods and lakeside vegetation, with some muddy areas near the water's edge after rain.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges or formal accommodations at the Clear Lake Campsite.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational activities are mentioned for this site.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-night maximum stay during each visit

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy of 8 people per site

Groups

This campsite does not offer group camping facilities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov (online or app) or by contacting the call center.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. The rugged nature of the site may make it challenging for individuals with mobility impairments.

Site SizeThe site measures 50 feet by 30 feet and can accommodate up to 2 families and trailers.

PrivacyThe site is located in an open area, which may limit privacy. However, it is the only campsite in the area, providing seclusion from other campers.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring boots for muddy areas near the boat launch. Carry portable toilets due to lack of facilities. Hornet traps recommended for pest management.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site, positioned for direct lake views and described by campers as peaceful and private despite the nearby boat launch. The open layout provides space but limited shade or natural screening.

Need help booking Clear Lake Campsite?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Clear Lake Campsite is a single-site, rustic camping area located in the Hiawatha National Forest. It is designed for campers seeking a serene and peaceful experience in a natural hardwood and pine forest environment. The campsite offers no amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or electricity. Campers are required to adhere to a pack-in/pack-out policy to manage waste.

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Clear Lake Campsite offers a variety of natural recreational activities in a quiet and remote setting. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. However, the lack of some facilities like restrooms and potable water requires careful preparation by campers. Swimming at the site is not recommended, but nearby biking and hiking trails offer alternatives for exploration.

Hiking

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 Flush ToiletsThere are no flush toilets available 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

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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

3.9

36 reviews

Mixed Reviews

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

User reviews are mixed, with some praising the site's natural beauty, privacy, and activities like fishing and kayaking, while others express concerns about public boat launch usage and the lack of facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 36 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the natural setting, serene environment, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. One reviewer noted, 'The sunset is seriously just the best here,' while another highlighted the...

Based on 36 reviews

Common Concerns

Common concerns include the lack of toilets, limited cell service, frequent public use of the boat launch, and issues with human waste around the site. One reviewer stated, 'Walk away from the...

Based on 36 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The single campsite (001) is often described as private and scenic but impacted by the boat launch's public use. Reviewers frequently highlight both the site's seclusion and its exposure to public...

Based on 36 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing all necessities, including potable water and portable toilets, as no facilities are provided. Setting up hornet traps and wearing boots for muddy areas were also advised.

Based on 36 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsite is particularly praised during late summer and early fall for clear weather and fewer bugs. However, hornets and muddy conditions were noted during certain weeks in the summer.

Based on 36 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Peaceful and secluded' (Christina S.) - 'Private lake and site' (Thomas Y.) - 'Very little service at Clear Lake. However we were ok with it and occupied ourselves kayaking, fishing, hiking...'...

Based on 36 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews are available. However, the rugged nature of the site and lack of amenities may make it less accommodating for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 36 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a quiet lakeside spot for fishing and kayaking with minimal amenities and spectacular fall color.

Skip if

You need privacy from boat launch traffic or hookups beyond basic fire rings.

Nearby Campgrounds

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4.5

(173)

Colwell Lake Campground

P.O. Box 171, Munising, MI, 49862, USA

Colwell Lake Campground sits on a 145-acre lake in Hiawatha National Forest near Manistique, Michigan. Operated by Vista Recreation, the mid-sized campground offers electric hookups, a swim beach, and a well-groomed lakeside trail suitable for strollers. Campers fish for bass and panfish, launch boats, and enjoy large, private sites under mature conifers.