How much does camping cost at Monocle Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Monocle Lake Campground range from $16-$22/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Monocle Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Monocle Lake Campground 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.

What is the best time to visit Monocle Lake Campground?

Monocle Lake Campground is open Peak season spans July and August.. 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 Monocle Lake Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Monocle Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Monocle Lake Campground: Campfires permitted in designated fire rings only.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Monocle Lake Campground have?

Monocle Lake Campground has 42 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Monocle Lake Campground?

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

What amenities are available at Monocle Lake Campground?

Monocle Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Monocle Lake Campground?

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

Monocle Lake Campground

4.43

103 reviews

Monocle Lake Campground, Forest Rd. 3699, Michigan

Top 25% in MIFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Michigan

Quick Facts

780 ft

Price

$16 - $22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

May 15 - September 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

780 ft

Price

$16 - $22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

May 15 - September 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Monocle Lake Campground

$16.00 - $22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site: $24 per night

Standard Site Fee$16.00

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USFS

Provider

1-877-444-67777

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Monocle Lake Campground, Forest Rd. 3699, Michigan

Monocle Lake Campground

Monocle Lake Campground, Forest Rd. 3699, Michigan

Nearby places

Brimley (7 miles)

Nearby supplies

The closest provisions are at a small grocery/deli market near the main intersection in Brimley, approximately 7 miles away.

Driving directionsFrom the intersection of M-28 and I-75 drive 7.5 miles west on M-28 to M-221. Turn right (north) and drive 2.5 miles on M-221 to Iroquois Rd/Lake Shore Drive (Forest Highway 42). Turn left (west) on Lake Shore Drive and drive 6.2 miles to Forest Road 3699. Turn left (west) on FR3699 and drive 1 mile to Monocle Lake Campground.

The campground is accessible via paved roads. Parking aprons are gravel. Seasonal closures apply; open mid-May through mid-October.

Weather at Monocle Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Monocle Lake Campground

Fall is peak season here. Maples, aspens, and birches turn by late September and early October, with daytime highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s°F cooling into the 40s by mid-autumn. Nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Summer highs average around 73°F, good for swimming and paddling. Mosquitoes fade after Labor Day. Winter temperatures drop below 20°F. Spring brings rain and mud as the forest wakes up.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in MI

Fall is a highlight: maples/aspens/birches turn by late Sept–Oct; scenic foliage draws visitors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season spans July and August.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May 15 - September 15

About Monocle Lake Campground

Monocle Lake Campground sits on the southern shore of its namesake lake in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, 42 sites spread along a single loop through mixed hardwood forest. The campground operates in Hiawatha National Forest near Brimley, offering access to both the 172-acre lake and Lake Superior's shoreline. Sites cost $16–22 per night and accommodate RVs up to 30 feet.

Monocle Lake Campground offers primarily rustic tent and RV camping, with 42 sites that include fire rings and picnic tables. Vault toilets and water spigots complete the amenities.

Historical Significance

Point Iroquois Lighthouse stands a few miles away, a 65-foot tower built in 1857 to guide ships through Lake Superior's waters. The lighthouse operates as a museum now, with a climbable tower and restored keeper's quarters that tell stories of shipwrecks and the families who maintained the light.

Weather and SeasonsFall is peak season here. Maples, aspens, and birches turn by late September and early October, with daytime highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s°F cooling into the 40s by mid-autumn. Nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Summer highs average around 73°F, good for swimming and paddling. Mosquitoes fade after Labor Day. Winter temperatures drop below 20°F. Spring brings rain and mud as the forest wakes up.

ElevationPerched at 780 feet above sea level, the campground enjoys a naturally cooler microclimate that provides relief from summer heat and creates the perfect conditions for the lush forest ecosystem. This modest elevation contributes to the area's refreshing atmosphere, where morning mists often drift across the lake and evening breezes carry the sweet scent of birch and pine.

Natural Features and SceneryAspens, red maples, and paper birches create a dense canopy over most sites, with the forest opening occasionally to reveal Monocle Lake. The 172-acre lake sits at 780 feet elevation, surrounded by north woods vegetation shaped by glacial activity. The campground's position in the Upper Peninsula puts it within reach of Lake Superior's rocky shoreline. One camper noted the sites feel "very woodsy" despite their size, and the lake itself draws consistent praise in reviews for its calm, clear water.

Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Monocle Lake Campground sits within a remarkable landscape shaped by ancient glaciers and time. The north woods ecosystem thrives here, where aspens dance in the breeze, red maples paint the forest with seasonal color, and paper birches stand like white sentinels among the greenery. This strategic location offers the best of both worlds—intimate forest camping with easy access to both the tranquil waters of Monocle Lake and the awe-inspiring expanse of Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area.

Scenic ViewsReviews mention "beautiful sunshade secluded camp," "gorgeous views of Monocle Lake," and comments such as "crystal-clear lake" and "the lake is beautiful and peaceful."

Lodging & AccommodationsNo additional lodging options like cabins or lodges are available at Monocle Lake Campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM early check-in incurs a fee.

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact guest limit per site not stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutA single loop holds all 42 sites. Spacing is generous enough that campers report significant privacy between sites. The forest provides natural screening, though generator noise can carry on busy weekends.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Hiawatha National Forest website or by calling 1-877-444-67777.

Walk-in AvailabilityHalf of the sites are first-come, first-served, making it possible to secure a spot without a reservation during weekdays.

Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy noted.

AccessibilitySites have hardened surfaces and tent pads. Accessible tables, fire rings, lantern posts, and restrooms are available throughout the campground.

Site SizeLarge sites capable of accommodating rigs up to 30 feet. "The sites are huge and very woodsy," commented one user, emphasizing their spaciousness.

PrivacyThe sites are well-spaced, providing significant privacy. "We barely even noticed that we had neighbors," remarked a camper who stayed on site 38.

Total Campsites42 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews suggest choosing sites with lake access or shaded areas for a better experience.

Best CampsitesSite 38 gets mentioned for privacy. One camper said they "barely even noticed" their neighbors. Site 32 drew a complaint as a "horrible site location," though the review doesn't specify why. Reviewers suggest arriving early on weekends since some sites are first-come, first-served.

Need help booking Monocle Lake Campground?

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Monocle Lake Campground offers a blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it a solid choice for campers seeking proximity to nature. While facilities like vault toilets and water spigots are available, showers and flush toilets are not, emphasizing the campground's rustic nature. "The vault toilets are the cleanest we have experienced during our camping tour of the Great Lakes," noted one user. Sites are well-maintained and include fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern posts. Accessible features are thoughtfully integrated, including hardened surfaces and accessible restrooms.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Monocle Lake Campground offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and both motorized and non-motorized boating. The Mission Hill Overlook Trail and the trail around Monocle Lake are highlights for hiking enthusiasts.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife including baby toads and newts have been spotted. Vault toilets and other rustic facilities may not meet expectations for some campers.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Vault toilets are the only restroom facilities provided.

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 PolicyCampfires permitted in designated fire rings only.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are in Brimley, Michigan.

Water FeaturesSituated on the shores of Monocle Lake, close to other water bodies like Lake Superior.

Camp HostHosts Larry and Becky were praised for their friendly demeanor and maintaining spotless facilities.

Cell CoverageUser reviews indicate mixed cell phone service quality, with at least one camper noting "very limited Verizon" coverage.

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

4.4

103 reviews

Recommended

Monocle Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is described as quiet, clean, and well-maintained with spacious sites. Hosts are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. Some users noted generator noise as a drawback during busy weekends.

Review Summaries

Based on 103 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the large, private sites and the cleanliness of the facilities. The lake and its surrounding trails are frequently praised as beautiful and peaceful.

Based on 103 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include occasional generator noise outside of quiet hours and incidents of disruptive behavior from other campers. Limited Verizon cell service and the lack of showers are also noted.

Based on 103 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 38 is notable for providing excellent privacy, as one user remarked, "We barely even noticed that we had neighbors."

Based on 103 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure first-come, first-served sites, especially on busy weekends. Bring your own potable water.

Based on 103 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest in July and August, with quieter periods in May/June and post-Labor Day. Fall is a popular time to visit due to the lake's picturesque colors.

Based on 103 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The vault toilets are the cleanest we have experienced during our camping tour of the Great Lakes." "The sites are huge and very woodsy." "The lake is beautiful and peaceful." "The camp hosts keep...

Based on 103 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features, including hardened site surfaces and accessible restrooms, were frequently praised.

Based on 103 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs appear to be welcome, as one user noted it is a "dog-friendly" campground.

Based on 103 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Fall campers and anglers get the most out of this place. The walleye and northern pike fishing is the real draw, and late September color from the maples and birches edges out summer by most accounts. Site 38 is worth requesting specifically.

Skip if

No showers, no hookups, and limited Verizon signal rule this out for anyone needing connectivity or comfort. Generator noise from inconsiderate neighbors can carry across the single loop on busy summer weekends.

Nearby Campgrounds

12600 E Lakeshore Drive, Brimley, MI 49715, USA

Monocle Lake sits within Hiawatha National Forest near Bay Mills, offering wooded tent and RV sites at the edge of a quiet inland lake. Operated by the Forest Service, the campground provides vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings for seasonal campers seeking fishing, swimming, and boating access. Large, private sites and proximity to Lake Superior and Tahquamenon Falls make it a practical base for exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Monocle Lake Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Monocle Lake Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Monocle Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Monocle Lake Campground

Planning Tips

About Monocle Lake Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Monocle Lake Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Monocle Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Monocle Lake Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Monocle Lake Campground?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews