How much does camping cost at Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

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

Ironjaw 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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite before I book?

Yes! Ironjaw 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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

Ironjaw 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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

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

Can I have a campfire at Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

Fire policies at Ironjaw 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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite have?

Ironjaw 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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

Yes, pets are allowed at Ironjaw Lake Campsite. 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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

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

What activities can I do at Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

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

Ironjaw Lake Campsite

4.27

14 reviews

8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, USA

Top 6% in MISpring

Summer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Michigan

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

814 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025 - ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

814 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025 - ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Ironjaw 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, USA

Ironjaw Lake Campsite

8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, USA

Nearby places

Rapid River (14 miles east, approximately 25-30 mins drive).

Weather at Ironjaw Lake Campsite

Current alerts(9)

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 Ironjaw Lake Campsite

Best season: spring. Spring (mid-May through early June) offers the best balance of mild weather, quiet trails and waking wildlife — daytime highs typically 55–70°F with nights in the mid-30s to low-50s — making it ideal for hiking, shore fishing and early-season boating before peak summer heat and crowds. The forest is coming alive with wildflowers and greening hardwoods, bugs are just ramping up (bring repellent), and the single pull-through campsite feels especially private. Weekday and early-weekend visits are a Peak months: May, June, September, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 6% in MI

Spring (mid-May–early June) is ideal and popular for shore fishing, especially crappie.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15, 2025 - October 10, 2025.

About Ironjaw Lake Campsite

Ironjaw Lake Campsite sits in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, Michigan, offering primitive lakeside camping at minimal cost. Operated by the Forest Service, this very small site attracts anglers and hikers seeking seclusion along the Pine Marten Trail. The vault toilet is well-maintained, and the lack of cell service reinforces the remote character.

Ironjaw Lake Campsite offers a single designated site that provides a rustic camping experience. It is suitable for tent camping, small trailers, and horse camping. The site is a pull-through configuration with limited space for maneuvering.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring (mid-May through early June) offers the best balance of mild weather, quiet trails and waking wildlife — daytime highs typically 55–70°F with nights in the mid-30s to low-50s — making it ideal for hiking, shore fishing and early-season boating before peak summer heat and crowds. The forest is coming alive with wildflowers and greening hardwoods, bugs are just ramping up (bring repellent), and the single pull-through campsite feels especially private. Weekday and early-weekend visits are a Peak months: May, June, September, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation814 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campsite sits at 814 feet elevation in dense hardwood and pine forest surrounding the 62-acre Ironjaw Lake system. Lake Nineteen is visible from the site, which overlooks the water from a gentle hillside. Glacial geology shaped the intimate lake basin and rolling terrain. The forest floor provides plenty of fallen timber for firewood. Reviewers consistently mention the pristine, untouched quality of the landscape and how it exceeded expectations for a rustic site.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or other accommodations beyond the campsite itself.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day stay limit applies.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people per campsite.

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 online through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe site is basic and may pose challenges to individuals with mobility issues due to rugged terrain and lack of amenities.

Site SizeThe site is spacious enough for a small family and a trailer, but overall capacity and size are limited.

PrivacyThe campsite is secluded and quiet, according to user reviews, though its proximity to the road means some visitors may drive by during the day.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 001 is ideal for privacy, fishing, and quiet recreation. Reviews frequently praise its seclusion and proximity to trails and fishing opportunities. "Dead and downed wood was ample and easy to gather for fires.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site: Site 001, a pull-through spot overlooking Lake Nineteen. Reviews praise its seclusion and proximity to Pine Marten Trail. The site is spacious enough for a small family and trailer, though turnaround space is limited. Confusion sometimes arises because the site is near Lake Nineteen but named for Ironjaw Lake, leading to reservation mix-ups.

Need help booking Ironjaw Lake Campsite?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Ironjaw Lake Campsite in the Hiawatha National Forest offers a basic and rustic camping experience. The site is equipped with a primitive toilet located across the road from the parking area. However, there is no drinking water available, and campers are required to bring their own. The site features a fire ring and picnic table for campers. It is a pull-through site overlooking Lake Nineteen, suitable for one family with a small trailer. Limited turnaround space and parking on-site are constraints. According to user reviews, the outhouse is kept relatively clean and is conveniently close. A pack-in, pack-out policy is enforced at this location, and dead and downed wood can be collected for fires.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

A variety of recreational activities are available at Ironjaw Lake Campsite. Fishing is highly rated, with opportunities to catch northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie, particularly in the spring. Visitors can also engage in swimming, although the swimming area is noted to be in poor condition. The campsite is part of the Pine Marten Run Trail, offering hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Horse camping is allowed for up to two horses. Boat launching is possible but challenging due to the steep hill and limited parking.

Hiking

Fishing

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 ToiletsNo flush toilets are available; a primitive toilet is the only facility.

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.

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

14 reviews

Satisfactory

Ironjaw Lake Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with many praising the site's seclusion, rustic charm, and access to trails and fishing. However, some users noted confusion about directions to the site and occasional disputes over camping boundaries.

Review Summaries

Based on 14 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the tranquility, the well-maintained vault toilet, and the site's proximity to Pine Marten Trail and fishing opportunities. Seclusion and a lack of cell service were also viewed...

Based on 14 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints centered around difficulties finding the site due to inaccurate directions, disputes with other visitors over reservations, and the poor condition of the swimming area.

Based on 14 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The single campsite is spacious and provides a good view of Lake Nineteen but is near a road, leading to some daytime vehicle traffic.

Based on 14 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a 4WD vehicle for navigating steep roads, and ensure all directions are double-checked before traveling. Collect firewood on-site, and plan for no cell service.

Based on 14 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring is popular for fishing, particularly for catching crappie. Summer reviews highlight the peacefulness and access to trails, while fall brings cooler weather conducive to hiking.

Based on 14 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The peace and quiet is just what we needed." - Amber A. "The rustic toilet was very nice, and we would definitely go back." - Benjamin L. "Directions it gives are for roads that do not exist or do...

Based on 14 reviews

Accessibility Features

The site may not be ideal for individuals with mobility issues due to steep terrain and limited facilities.

Based on 14 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.

Based on 14 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want secluded lakeside camping on a budget and value solitude over convenience.

Skip if

You need clear road access, strong cell service, or detailed signage to find your site.

Nearby Campgrounds

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2.8

(12)

Lake Nineteen Campsite

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

Lake Nineteen Campsite sits in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, managed by the Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District. This very small primitive campground offers low-elevation lakeside camping with fire rings and a 14-day stay limit. Visitors come for fishing and hiking in a quiet, wooded setting, though trail maintenance can be inconsistent.