How much does camping cost at Benton Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Benton Lake Campground range from $16-$30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

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

Benton Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are first-come, first-served. Availability may vary during peak hunting and camping seasons.

Can I see photos of campsites at Benton Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Benton Lake Campground has 20 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 Benton Lake Campground?

Benton Lake Campground is open May 6 - September 5.. 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 Benton Lake Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Benton Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Benton Lake Campground: Campfires allowed in designated fire pits at each site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Benton Lake Campground?

Cell phone service at Benton Lake Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Benton Lake Campground have?

Benton Lake Campground has 25 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Benton Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Benton Lake Campground. 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 Benton Lake Campground?

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

Benton Lake Campground

4.16

49 reviews

650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304

Tent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Michigan

Quick Facts

760 ft

Price

$16 - $30/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

25 campsites

Season

OPENS SATURDAY MAY 2...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

760 ft

Price

$16 - $30/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

25 campsites

Season

OPENS SATURDAY MAY 2...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Benton Lake Campground

$16.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single Site: $30 per night Additional Vehicle Fee: $10 per vehicle per night Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

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USFS

Provider

(231) 745-4631

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304

Benton Lake Campground

650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304

Nearby places

White Cloud (Approx. 15.5 miles, 25 minutes), Baldwin (Approx. 20 miles, 30 minutes), Brohman (Approx. 4.5 miles, 10 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Closest grocery store and supplies can be found in White Cloud, MI (approx. 15.5 miles away). Fuel stations are also available in White Cloud and Baldwin.

Weather at Benton Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Benton Lake Campground

Summer brings the best conditions: highs of 70-85°F, nights in the 50s-60s, and warm enough lake temps for morning swims. The full range of water activities works well from June through August, and bugs are manageable with repellent. Weekend crowds pick up in summer, but weekdays stay quiet. Winter opens up snow-based activities for those willing to handle freezing temps. Spring and fall see fewer visitors but wetter, muddier conditions underfoot.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: 70–85°F, warm lake temps, full range of water activities June–Aug.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 6 - September 5.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: OPENS SATURDAY MAY 2 Early May - Mid October

About Benton Lake Campground

Benton Lake Campground sits on a 33-acre natural lake in the Huron-Manistee National Forests near Brohman, Michigan. The campground has 25 sites spread across two loops, offering a rustic, forested setting with clean vault toilets and good cell service despite the secluded feel. Fees run $16-$30 per night.

The campground primarily caters to rustic camping enthusiasts, with a focus on tent camping and small RVs. All sites are first-come, first-served, and no reservations are accepted.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the best conditions: highs of 70-85°F, nights in the 50s-60s, and warm enough lake temps for morning swims. The full range of water activities works well from June through August, and bugs are manageable with repellent. Weekend crowds pick up in summer, but weekdays stay quiet. Winter opens up snow-based activities for those willing to handle freezing temps. Spring and fall see fewer visitors but wetter, muddier conditions underfoot.

ElevationPerched at a comfortable 760 feet above sea level, Benton Lake Campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and natural immersion. This moderate elevation creates ideal conditions for comfortable camping while maintaining the authentic wilderness atmosphere that draws visitors seeking respite from lowland heat and humidity.

Natural Features and SceneryMature mixed hardwoods surround the 33-acre lake, creating dense canopy shade across most of the campground. The loamy forest floor is rich but turns muddy after rain. The lake itself is a glacial remnant with clear water good for swimming and fishing. Deer appear at dawn, songbirds call through the day, and you'll see fish breaking the surface at sunset. The elevation sits at 760 feet.

Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Huron-Manistee National Forests, Benton Lake showcases nature's artistry through its diverse ecosystem of mature mixed hardwoods thriving in nutrient-rich loamy soil. The centerpiece 33-acre natural lake serves as a testament to the region's glacial past, offering a window into Michigan's geological heritage while providing endless recreation opportunities for modern adventurers.

Scenic ViewsOffers scenic views of Benton Lake and surrounding hardwood forests.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges or cabins available at Benton Lake Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are noted.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Open 24 hours
check-in begins upon arrival.

Check-out

Standard check-out time aligns with forest quiet hours.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is limited to 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guest limits are decided per site. Permits are required for large groups over 75 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo loops run along the lakeshore. Sites are well-spaced for privacy, each with a picnic table and fire ring with grill attachment. Some reviewers mention generator noise can carry between sites on busy weekends.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are available for this campground.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Availability may vary during peak hunting and camping seasons.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations available; sites are first-come, first-served.

AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-friendly. No additional accessibility features were mentioned.

Site SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and able to accommodate multiple vehicles or larger tents.

PrivacyThe sites are well spread out, providing a good level of privacy to campers.

Total Campsites25 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommend choosing sites away from heavy generator-use areas for a quieter experience. Lake-facing sites offer the best views.

Best CampsitesLakefront sites are the most popular for water access and views. Reviews don't mention specific site numbers, but campers note the sites are spacious enough for multiple vehicles or large tents.

Amenities available

Benton Lake Campground provides a rustic camping experience with a focus on natural surroundings and recreational activities. The campground is composed of two loops along Benton Lake, a 33-acre natural lake. It includes 25 sites, each with picnic tables and fire grilles. However, there are no potable water sources, so campers must bring their own drinking water. Vault toilets are available and noted for being well-maintained, as mentioned in user reviews.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Benton Lake Campground offers several recreational activities close to nature. The primary attractions include fishing, swimming, and hiking. The campground is also a popular destination during hunting season.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include soggy soil after rain, wildlife such as bears, and the risk of generators disturbing tranquility.

No Flush ToiletsNo flush toilets are available at this site. Vault toilets are the only option.

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 allowed in designated fire pits at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply; however, enforcement has been inconsistent according to reviews.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station, located approximately 20 miles away in Baldwin, MI.

Water FeaturesSituated directly on Benton Lake, providing access to fishing, boating, and limited swimming.

Camp HostCampground host is available but has received mixed reviews regarding quiet hours and generator usage.

Cell CoverageUser reviews suggest that although the campground gives a feeling of seclusion, there is still cell phone service, allowing campers to stay connected. One user remarked that the campground is 'off the grid in wilderness' but still has cell phone 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

4.2

49 reviews

Satisfactory

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

User reviews present a mixed but overall positive impression of Benton Lake Campground. Campers appreciate the peaceful, rustic atmosphere, spacious sites, and proximity to recreational activities. Complaints are largely focused on the noise from generators, which some felt disrupted the serene environment.

Review Summaries

Based on 49 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the campground's clean facilities, friendly staff, spacious campsites, and excellent fishing opportunities. Many users praised the natural, rustic feel.

Based on 49 reviews

Common Concerns

Key issues raised in reviews include noise from generators, including one instance where the camp host ran a generator for their air conditioning, resulting in complaints about noise pollution. Some...

Based on 49 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific campsites are not mentioned, but users generally highlight the spacious and clean nature of the sites.

Based on 49 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray and your own potable water. Consider visiting during the off-season for a quieter experience. Reviewers also recommend fishing and kayaking on the lake.

Based on 49 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular during hunting season and summer months, with many reviews noting increased activity during these times. Off-season visits are quieter but come with limited amenities...

Based on 49 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Absolutely love this campground! If you're looking for a rustic campground with an amazing lake for fishing or frog hunting, then this is the place for you.' - Spring River 2. 'The lake is...

Based on 49 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility beyond the mention of wheelchair-friendly vault toilets.

Based on 49 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leashes, and user reviews confirm that the campground is pet-friendly.

Based on 49 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Anglers and kayakers who pack their own drinking water and arrive midweek will get the most out of this place. The lake holds northern pike, bass, bluegill, and perch, and weekday crowds stay thin even in peak summer.

Skip if

No electric hookups, no dump station, and generator noise is a real problem on busy weekends, with reviewers noting even the host ran one for AC. RV campers expecting hookups or a quiet night should look elsewhere.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.2

(72)

Minnie Pond Campground

650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304

Minnie Pond Campground sits in Newaygo County with 11 primitive sites spread among mature red pines planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Sites cost $10 per night and come with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Several spots overlook Minnie Pond and Mena Creek. This is a genuinely rustic setup: no drinking water on-site, no trash service, and campers report leftover debris from previous visitors.

Benton Lake Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Benton Lake Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Benton Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Benton Lake Campground

Planning Tips

About Benton Lake Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

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 Benton Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Benton Lake Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews