How much does camping cost at Crooked Lake Campsite?

Camping fees at Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite first-come first-served or reservation?

Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite before I book?

Yes! Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite?

Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite?

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

Can I have a campfire at Crooked Lake Campsite?

Fire policies at Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite have?

Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite?

Pets are not allowed at Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite?

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

Crooked Lake Campsite

3 reviews

8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

755 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

755 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Crooked 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 OR 906-387-2512

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA

Crooked Lake Campsite

8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA

Nearby places

Manistique (25 miles north), Steuben (4 miles southwest)

Weather at Crooked 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 Crooked Lake Campsite

Best season: fall. Fall offers the clearest combination of comfortable weather, peak leaf color, and quiet solitude at this single-site campground — daytime highs are typically in the 50s–60s°F with crisp nights dipping into the 30s–40s°F. Lake fishing and calm boating are excellent as boat traffic declines and water temperatures cool, while biking and forest walks are at their most scenic with colorful hardwoods and pine backdrops. Crowds are minimal compared with midsummer, and the limited site means you’ll have Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

“Fall is the sweet spot” with cooler days, foliage, less boat traffic, and more solitude.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15, 2025, through October 9, 2025.

About Crooked Lake Campsite

Crooked Lake Campsite is a single-site primitive spot in Hiawatha National Forest, managed by the Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District near Rapid River, Michigan. The lakefront location offers direct fishing and boating access in a quiet, low-elevation forest setting. Campers appreciate the solitude and bluegill fishing, though the site sits near a public boat launch that can bring occasional evening visitors.

Crooked Lake Campsite caters to campers seeking a highly rustic experience. It is most suitable for tent or small trailer camping with no amenities provided.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the clearest combination of comfortable weather, peak leaf color, and quiet solitude at this single-site campground — daytime highs are typically in the 50s–60s°F with crisp nights dipping into the 30s–40s°F. Lake fishing and calm boating are excellent as boat traffic declines and water temperatures cool, while biking and forest walks are at their most scenic with colorful hardwoods and pine backdrops. Crowds are minimal compared with midsummer, and the limited site means you’ll have Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation755 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryNorthern hardwoods and pine surround the site, creating a forested buffer between you and the lake. Crooked Lake itself stretches 190 acres, carved by glaciers and now shared between wilderness and development. You'll see lakefront homes and resorts on other parts of the shore, but the campsite sits in a wooded pocket. Fish jump at dusk. Mornings bring mist off the water. The setting blends rustic camping with the reality of a frequented lake.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights allowed per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests allowed per site is 8.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online, via mobile app, contact center, or in person.

AccessibilityAccessibility information is not provided, but the rustic nature and narrow roads leading to the campsite could pose challenges for some individuals.

Site Size35ft. by 35ft.

PrivacyThe site offers significant privacy, as it is the only campsite on Crooked Lake. However, users should note that the lake is frequented, and the boat access shared with the public allows anglers to pass through the site.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring bug spray due to mosquitoes, and plan for careful maneuvering of larger vehicles on narrow access roads.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site, designated 001. It's your only option, which means you either get the whole place or you don't camp here.

Need help booking Crooked 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

Crooked Lake Campsite is a highly rustic and serene camping destination located in the Hiawatha National Forest. The site offers minimal amenities, emphasizing a tranquil wilderness experience. According to the official source, 'There are no toilets or drinking water at this site.' User reviews confirm this and add that the site is quiet and peaceful for the most part. The campsite measures 35ft. by 35ft. and is described as level and suitable for one family and a trailer.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campsite provides a mix of recreational activities in a rustic setting. Visitors can enjoy fishing, berry picking, and limited swimming opportunities. Fishing is a highlight, with species like bluegill, crappie, northern pike, and occasionally smallmouth bass available. Swimming is described as poor by the official sources. Boating is allowed with carry-in access to the 190-acre Crooked Lake.

Fishing

Boating

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 ToiletsThis site does not provide flush toilets.

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

0.0

3 reviews

Limited Reviews

Crooked Lake Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews suggest that the campsite provides a peaceful and rustic experience, though the lack of amenities and the shared lake access with anglers can pose challenges. Mosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a significant concern.

Review Summaries

Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the campsite. The fishing opportunities are particularly appreciated, with mentions of catching bluegill and perch.

Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes are noted as ferocious, making bug spray a necessity. Some reviews mention road noise and challenges with the narrow, bumpy road leading to the site.

Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The site is identified as 001 in the Crooked Lake Dispersed Campsite loop. It is described as being quiet and peaceful but occasionally subject to road noise and late-night visitors accessing the...

Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring ample bug spray to deal with mosquitoes. Be prepared for a bumpy and narrow road to the campsite, which could challenge less experienced drivers. A fishing license is required.

Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campsite is most suitable for the summer season when fishing and berry picking can be enjoyed. However, mosquito activity appears to be a common issue during warmer months.

Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The drive is quite bumpy and narrow. It was a bit of a chore getting our 19' camper backed into the spot. A less experienced person would probably struggle." "Mosquitoes are ferocious so bring your...

Based on 3 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a quiet, budget-friendly lakefront spot for fishing and don't mind being near a public boat access.

Skip if

You need guaranteed privacy from boat-launch visitors or want developed amenities beyond a fire ring and picnic table.

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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.