Minerva Lake Campsite

Star4.10
23 reviews
RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Quick Facts

781 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May 15, 20...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Minerva Lake Campsite
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates during peak season are $8 per night for standard nonelectric sites. Reservation fees include $9.50 for online reservations and...
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Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
906-474-6442
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What Campers Say

4.10

Satisfactory

Based on 23 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacyquietlake

"User reviews highlight the rustic and serene nature of the campsite, with its remote location and beautiful lake views being major draws. However, the lack of basic amenities, particularly toilets, is a recurring concern."

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Campground Map

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

Minerva Lake Campsite

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

Driving directionsFrom Cooks (about 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 14.4 miles to FR 2767. Turn right (east) and drive 0.25 mile to the campsite. The access road crosses a short, steep hill and is narrow, but still capable of handling moderate-sized vehicles.
Access road crosses a short, steep hill and is narrow but still capable of handling moderate-sized vehicles. Suitable for small trailers and tents due to limited turnaround space.
Nearby places
Cooks (12 miles west of Manistique), Rapid River (24 miles east on US-2)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gasoline, fishing and camping supplies, ice, and deli are available approximately three miles south on County Road 437 in the Thunder Lake area.

Best Time to Camp at Minerva Lake Campsite

Don't let the summer sun fool you—Minerva Lake's forest canopy and northern location create refreshingly cool evenings that can surprise even seasoned campers. July nights often call for cozy campfire gatherings and warm sleeping bags, making this an ideal escape from sweltering summer heat. The region enjoys predominantly dry conditions, though winter visitors might wake to a magical dusting of snow transforming the forest into a pristine wonderland. Smart campers pack layers and check current weather forecasts to fully enjoy their wilderness retreat.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Summer is 'most favored' for fishing and wildlife viewing; nights are cool and pleasant.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Hardwoods and hemlocks suggest good fall color viewing before the Oct 10 closure.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 15; late spring (after opening) is usable though nights can be cool.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 10–May 15; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15, 2025 - October 10, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 15, 2025, and closes on October 10, 2025.

About Minerva Lake Campsite

Tucked away in the heart of Hiawatha National Forest, Minerva Lake Campsite offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate, single-site primitive campground invites you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of towering hardwoods and fragrant hemlocks. The generous 40ft x 30ft site accommodates both tent campers and small trailer adventurers who appreciate the charm of rustic camping without the crowds.
Minerva Lake Campsite offers primitive camping for those seeking a rustic outdoor experience. It is designed for single-family use and is suitable for tents or small trailers.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Minerva Lake Campsite offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, limited swimming, berry picking, and small-boat boating. Visitors can also enjoy nearby trails for hiking and biking.
HikingHiking trails are described as being within a short drive from the campsite. These trails are part of the larger Hiawatha National Forest and offer opportunities for exploration.
FishingMinerva Lake is known for its largemouth bass and perch, with a reputation for good fishing. A valid Michigan fishing license is required.
SwimmingSwimming conditions at Minerva Lake are described as poor, with a shallow and mucky-bottomed lake.
BikingNearby forest roads and trails, including the Bruno Run MBT, provide opportunities for gravel biking.
BoatingThe campsite features a gravel-based boat launch suitable for small boats and trailers. The lake is small but offers peaceful boating experiences.
Wildlife viewingVisitors have reported spotting loons, frogs, and other wildlife at the lake, making it a peaceful spot for wildlife observation.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo toilets provided, which requires campers to bury waste away from water sources. Wildlife such as loons and frogs can be seen, but there is limited aquatic vegetation in the lake.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Minerva Lake Campsite

Reviews

4.1
23 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Minerva Lake Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the rustic and serene nature of the campsite, with its remote location and beautiful lake views being major draws. However, the lack of basic amenities, particularly toilets, is a recurring concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciate the campsite's privacy, scenic lake views, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing. Many reviewers find the solitude and quiet environment relaxing.
Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

The absence of a toilet is a significant drawback noted by multiple users. Some visitors also mention that the lake is not suitable for swimming, and there are occasional issues with other campers...
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Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, toilet supplies, and bug spray. Be prepared for cold nights even in summer, and consider bringing layers for warmth. Familiarize yourself with the pack-in, pack-out policy and...
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Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most favored season for camping at Minerva Lake, with activities like fishing and wildlife viewing being popular. However, campers should be prepared for cooler temperatures at night.
Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

"A nice, small, quiet campground with a very beautiful lake at the edge of the campground." - Lacey Engle "Single campsite on a small lake so we had the lake to ourselves except for some day users."...
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Based on 23 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 is the only campsite available at Minerva Lake and is described as private and scenic, with easy access to the lake. However, its proximity to a day-use boat launch can lead to occasional...
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Based on 23 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews are provided, but users have noted the small and semi-open nature of the site, which may not accommodate all accessibility needs.
Based on 23 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and reviewers do not mention any issues related to bringing dogs or other animals to the site.
Based on 23 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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