How much does camping cost at East Lake Campsites?

Camping fees at East Lake Campsites 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 East Lake Campsites first-come first-served or reservation?

East Lake Campsites 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 East Lake Campsites before I book?

Yes! East Lake Campsites has 6 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 East Lake Campsites?

East Lake Campsites 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 East Lake Campsites?

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

How many campsites does East Lake Campsites have?

East Lake Campsites has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at East Lake Campsites?

Yes, pets are allowed at East Lake Campsites. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at East Lake Campsites?

East Lake Campsites offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at East Lake Campsites?

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

East Lake Campsites

Q: Can I have a campfire at East Lake Campsites?

Fire policies at East Lake Campsites: 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.

3.76

37 reviews

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

Summer Destination

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Michigan

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

692 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open: May 15, 2025; ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

692 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open: May 15, 2025; ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

East Lake Campsites

$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

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

East Lake Campsites

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

Nearby places

Manistique (22.5 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Steuben (2 miles, approximately 5-10 minutes)

Driving directionsFrom Manistique, MI: drive north on M-94 22.5 miles to the intersection with CR 437. Turn right at the big parking lot opposite CR 437. To get to site 1: take the immediate right on FR 2723, drive 0.7 mi to FR 2650. Turn left (east) on FR 2650 and drive 0.2 mi to site 1. To get to sites 2 and 3: proceed directly through the parking lot on FR 2247 and drive about 1 mile to FR 2247A. Turn right (south) on FR 2247A and drive less than a mile to the campsites.

Weather at East Lake Campsites

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 East Lake Campsites

Best season: fall. Fall offers crisp, clear weather (daytime highs typically 45–60°F / 7–15°C, cooler mornings into the 30s–40s°F / 1–8°C) and peak hardwood color that transforms the shoreline into a vivid display—perfect for hiking, photography, paddling and quiet wildlife viewing. Bugs are largely gone and crowds thin, so fishing at dawn and late-afternoon paddling are especially pleasant. Note the campground closes October 9, so plan for late September to very early October to catch peak color while sites are ( Peak months: September, June, August, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is the standout season: hardwood foliage, cool days and prime seclusion noted in overview.

Planning Tips

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

About East Lake Campsites

East Lake Campsites sits on a secluded lake in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, Michigan. Managed by the Forest Service, this free primitive campground offers fishing, swimming, and boating access on a quiet shoreline shared with only a single private residence. The tiny footprint and unmarked forest roads keep crowds minimal, appealing to campers who prioritize solitude over convenience.

East Lake Campsites provides primitive, tent, and RV camping options. It is suitable for dispersed camping with minimal facilities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers crisp, clear weather (daytime highs typically 45–60°F / 7–15°C, cooler mornings into the 30s–40s°F / 1–8°C) and peak hardwood color that transforms the shoreline into a vivid display—perfect for hiking, photography, paddling and quiet wildlife viewing. Bugs are largely gone and crowds thin, so fishing at dawn and late-afternoon paddling are especially pleasant. Note the campground closes October 9, so plan for late September to very early October to catch peak color while sites are ( Peak months: September, June, August, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation692 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe lake occupies a 53-acre basin surrounded by mixed hardwood and pine forest at 692 feet elevation. Rolling hills frame the shoreline, and the wooded setting provides habitat for bald eagles, deer, and loons. Site spacing varies. Site 1 claims a generous 100 by 75 feet on the western shore, while Sites 2 and 3 are smaller and positioned northeast and along the water's edge. Expect dappled shade, direct water access from each site, and limited intrusion from development beyond one private residence on the lake.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or other accommodations are available; this is a camping-only site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered on-site.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Pack-In, Pack-Out policy
maximum 14 consecutive nights during any visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Site 1 (maximum 24 guests), Sites 2 and 3 (maximum 8 guests each).

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 through their contact center.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned. The steep and winding access roads to some sites may pose challenges for individuals with mobility concerns.

Site SizeSite 1: 100 ft x 75 ft; Site 2: 45 ft x 35 ft; Site 3: 55 ft x 50 ft.

PrivacySites are all separated and have lake access." The wooded locations provide some privacy, but the site layout and proximity to features like the boat launch may affect seclusion.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 1 is ideal for larger groups (up to 24 people) and offers hilltop views. Site 2 accommodates small trailers; Site 3 is recommended for tents due to difficult access roads.

Best CampsitesSite 3 gets the most attention in reviews for its open lakefront and swimming access. Site 1 offers the largest footprint at 100 by 75 feet, which matters if you're bringing multiple tents or want buffer space from the other campers.

Need help booking East Lake Campsites?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

East Lake Campsites offers a rustic camping experience with minimal amenities. "There is NO drinking water at this location." Primitive toilets are provided at sites 1 and 2. "There are no hookups available, and campers must follow a pack-in, pack-out policy."

Fire rings

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

East Lake Campsites provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Hiking and berry picking are also available.

Fishing

Swimming

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 ToiletsNo flush toilets are available. Primitive toilets are available at sites 1 and 2.

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyYou are welcome to collect firewood from the area surrounding your campsite. Just remember that any firewood that you collect must be DEAD AND DOWN

Trash & RecyclingPack-in, pack-out policy applies. Campers are required to take all trash and recycling with them when departing the site.

Cell CoverageMixed reviews about cell phone reception. One user stated, "Internet service was spotty but not totally out."

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

3.8

37 reviews

Mixed Reviews

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

Overall, the campground receives mixed reviews. Many campers appreciate its serenity, seclusion, and natural beauty. Several negative experiences highlight navigation challenges, bugs, and noisy neighbors.

Review Summaries

Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful tiny secluded lake," "quiet and peaceful," "only 3 sites and 1 private house on a small private lake." Wildlife spottings such as bald eagles and seclusion were frequently praised.

Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Navigation challenges: "VERY hard to find... Follow the blue tags and one Bud Light can to find Site 3." Bugs and mosquitoes: "The bugs were relentless and honestly the worst I have ever...

Based on 37 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1: "Lots of random traffic thru site #1 to get to the boat launch." Site 3: "Swimming at Site 3 is excellent." Also noted for difficult navigation and high levels of bugs.

Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Check the local 'weather' reports before booking" to avoid mosquito season. "Carry bug spray and lotion," and "use a high-clearance vehicle for site access."

Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During summer, bugs are a severe issue. Spring and fall are better for enjoying the seclusion and natural beauty.

Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We had our own little private beach and there was a new fire pit ring with a grate." "Woke up in the morning with ACTUALLY 40-50 mosquitoes perched on the outside of the tent." "The site is nice,...

Based on 37 reviews

Accessibility Features

The steep and narrow access roads to Sites 2 and 3 may make it difficult for individuals with physical disabilities to access these sites.

Based on 37 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews directly mention pets, but pets are permitted at the campground.

Based on 37 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want secluded lake access without fees and can handle primitive conditions and unmarked roads.

Skip if

You need reliable cell service, marked signage, or freedom from generator noise.

Nearby Campgrounds

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4.5

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Steuben Lake Campsites

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

Steuben Lake Campsites sits in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, managed by the Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District. This free or very low-cost campground offers direct lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating in a quiet, wooded setting. Reviewers praise the clean, family-friendly atmosphere and lakefront location, though narrow access roads can challenge mid-sized RVs.