How much does camping cost at Jackpine Lake Campsites?

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

Is Jackpine Lake Campsites first-come first-served or reservation?

Jackpine 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 Jackpine Lake Campsites before I book?

Yes! Jackpine Lake Campsites 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 Jackpine Lake Campsites?

Jackpine 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 Jackpine Lake Campsites?

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

How many campsites does Jackpine Lake Campsites have?

Jackpine Lake Campsites has 2 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Jackpine Lake Campsites?

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

What amenities are available at Jackpine Lake Campsites?

Jackpine Lake Campsites offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Jackpine Lake Campsites?

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

Jackpine Lake Campsites

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

Fire policies at Jackpine 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.

3.74

22 reviews

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

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping Michigan

Quick Facts

791 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Open May 15 - Octobe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest - Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

791 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Open May 15 - Octobe...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Hiawatha National Forest - Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Jackpine Lake Campsites

$8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

906-474-6442 OR 906-387-2512

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Campground Map

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

Jackpine Lake Campsites

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

Nearby places

Manistique: 12 miles west

Rapid River: 24 miles east.

Driving directionsFrom Cooks (12 miles west of Manistique or 24 miles east of Rapid River on US-2), drive north 4.4 miles on County Road 442 to CR 437. Turn left (north) on CR 437 and drive 8.7 miles to FR 2217. Turn left (northwest) on FR 2217 and drive 4.3 miles to FR 2715. To get to site #1: Turn right (east) on to FR 2715 and drive about 0.6 mile to campsite #1. To get to site #2: Continue north on FR 2217 an additional 0.5 mile to FR 8137. Turn right (north) and drive about 1 mile to campsite #2.

Weather at Jackpine Lake Campsites

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 Jackpine Lake Campsites

Best season: summer. Summer is the best time to visit Jackpine Lake because the water is warm enough for swimming and small‑boat paddling, trails are dry and fully accessible, and fisheries (bass/panfish/perch) are active. Expect daytime highs typically in the mid‑60s to upper‑70s °F (around 65–80°F) with cool nights in the mid‑40s to mid‑50s °F; cloudy days are common but do not usually prevent outdoor recreation. Weekdays and early summer are very quiet, while holiday weekends in July–August see the highest use —, Peak months: July, August, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open into October; fall likely offers cooler temps and scenic foliage though swimming declines.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15 - October 9, 2025. Reservations start June 21, 2025.

About Jackpine Lake Campsites

Jackpine Lake Campsites sits in Hiawatha National Forest near Rapid River, offering a handful of free primitive sites on a quiet inland lake. Managed by the Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District, this very small campground draws visitors who fish for bass and panfish, swim in clear water, and launch small boats. The atmosphere is remote and peaceful, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables but no hookups or developed facilities.

The Jackpine Lake Campsites provide a rustic camping experience with minimal facilities, attracting visitors who enjoy primitive camping. There are two sites available, each with different capacities and features.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer is the best time to visit Jackpine Lake because the water is warm enough for swimming and small‑boat paddling, trails are dry and fully accessible, and fisheries (bass/panfish/perch) are active. Expect daytime highs typically in the mid‑60s to upper‑70s °F (around 65–80°F) with cool nights in the mid‑40s to mid‑50s °F; cloudy days are common but do not usually prevent outdoor recreation. Weekdays and early summer are very quiet, while holiday weekends in July–August see the highest use —, Peak months: July, August, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation791 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground blends hardwood forest with pine groves at 791 feet elevation. Site 1 sits in an open area with lake access, while Site 2 is wooded and more secluded. The lake itself is calm and clear, suitable for swimming and small boats. Reviewers describe the setting as peaceful, with one noting the experience of "swimming and listening to the birds." Morning mist is common, and the forest canopy provides varying levels of shade depending on which site you choose.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or additional accommodations are mentioned in the official sources.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day stay limit per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Site 1 allows up to 16 people. Site 2 allows up to 8 people.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites at Jackpine Lake.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via the app, or through the contact center.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the available materials.

Site SizeSite 1 measures 45ft x 40ft, while Site 2 is smaller, at 30ft x 20ft.

PrivacySite 1 is in an open area, while Site 2 is more secluded and wooded.

Total Campsites2 campsites

Recommended SitesFor families or groups, Site 1 is more spacious (45ft x 40ft) and accessible for trailers. Site 2 is better for smaller groups or those seeking seclusion.

Best CampsitesSite 1 is better for swimming access and can accommodate trailers. It's open, measures 45ft x 40ft, and sits on a hill. Site 2 is more secluded and wooded but smaller (30ft x 20ft) with limited turnaround space. Reviewers don't recommend Site 2 for trailers. If you want solitude, go for Site 2. If you want easier lake access and more room, take Site 1.

Need help booking Jackpine 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

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The Jackpine Lake Campsites are a rustic option for campers seeking a serene and peaceful setting. The campground features minimal amenities, catering to those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. According to the official description, 'There is NO drinking water available at these campsites,' and it operates under a pack-in, pack-out policy. There are two campsites, each offering unique characteristics. 'Site 1 is located in an open area on top of a small hill overlooking the south side of Jackpine Lake' and is suitable for two families with trailers. 'Site 2 is small, wooded, and located on the west side of Jackpine Lake.' This site is not recommended for trailers due to limited turnaround space.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Jackpine Lake Campsites

The Jackpine Lake Campsites offer opportunities for swimming, berry picking, and fishing. The lake is well-regarded as a fishery for smallmouth bass and bluegills, with some yellow perch and bullheads also present. An unimproved boat access is available on the south side of the lake near Site 1, suitable for small, lightweight craft. 'Parking space is limited,' and the access is intended for day use only.

Fishing4.0/5

Swimming3.0/5

Site 1 offers good swimming near boat access; other spots not recommended.

Boating3.0/5

Unimproved boat access suitable for small, lightweight craft and calm lake.

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote, low-light setting and praised solitude suggest very good stargazing.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete 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 ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the Jackpine Lake Campsites.

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.

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 & RecyclingThe campground follows a strict pack-in, pack-out policy for trash and recycling. Campers are expected to take their waste with them.

Cell CoverageOfficial sources do not provide details on the availability or quality of cell phone reception at the campsite.

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

3.7

22 reviews

Mixed Reviews

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

User reviews of the Jackpine Lake Campsites highlight the area's peaceful and serene setting, with a focus on its rustic nature. Some reviewers appreciate the solitude and natural beauty, while others mention challenges such as road conditions and limited amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 22 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 22 reviews.

Site 2Loved
Site 2: Mark A gave a 4-star review and noted the absence of a picnic table, although he appreciated the low price.
Site 1Mentioned
Site 1: Robert S gave a 4-star rating, noting it was adequate but without specific elaboration.

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praise the campground's quiet and magical atmosphere. For example, Angela Viator calls it 'magical camping, away from everyone and everything. Very peaceful.' The lake's beauty and...

Based on 22 reviews

Common Concerns

Common concerns include the need for better signage to find the lake (as noted by Maura Elliott) and road conditions, which Kristina S describes as 'better for vehicles with clearance and four-wheel...

Based on 22 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing sufficient supplies due to the lack of amenities and preparing for rough roads. Kristina S advises, 'Not impossible with an economy car but not recommended.'

Based on 22 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews do not provide detailed seasonal analysis, but summer observations suggest an increase in insects such as horseflies, as noted by Mark A.

Based on 22 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Magical camping, away from everyone and everything. Very peaceful.' - Angela Viator 2. 'Road leading to site better for vehicles with clearance and four-wheel drive.' - Kristina S 3. 'Beautiful...

Based on 22 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features.

Based on 22 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not discussed in the available reviews.

Based on 22 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Jackpine Lake Campsites

$8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-474-6442 OR 906-387-2512

Go if

You want solitude and lake access without fees, and you're comfortable with primitive conditions and forest road navigation.

Skip if

You need hookups, developed amenities, or guaranteed easy road access with clear signage.

Nearby Campgrounds

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

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.

Jackpine Lake Campsites

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

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Campground Map

Weather at Jackpine Lake Campsites

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Jackpine Lake Campsites

Planning Tips

About Jackpine Lake Campsites

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Jackpine Lake Campsites?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Jackpine Lake Campsites

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

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Overview

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Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Jackpine Lake Campsites

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Jackpine Lake Campsites?

Amenities available

Things to do at Jackpine Lake Campsites

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns