How much does camping cost at Brush Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Brush Lake Campground range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

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

Brush Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Yes, based on honor system payment drop box. "I believe it's an honor system payment set up," user Jake Smith.

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

Yes! Brush 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 Brush Lake Campground?

Brush Lake Campground is open Approximately Memorial Day to Labor Day considered popular dates based on user feedback.. 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 Brush Lake Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Brush Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Brush Lake Campground: No specific fire policies mentioned.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Brush Lake Campground?

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

How many campsites does Brush Lake Campground have?

Brush Lake Campground has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Brush Lake Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Brush 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 Brush Lake Campground?

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

Brush Lake Campground

4.01

57 reviews

Brush Lake, Huron-Manistee National Forests

Top 25% in MIFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Primitive Camping Michigan

Quick Facts

1,033 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,033 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Brush Lake Campground

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees are $10.00 per night for a single site. Payments must be made using cash or checks.

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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USFS

Provider

(231) 745-4631

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Brush Lake, Huron-Manistee National Forests

Brush Lake Campground

Brush Lake, Huron-Manistee National Forests

Nearby places

White Cloud, MI (Approximately 13 miles, 20 minutes by car)

Nearby supplies

Supplies are likely available in the nearest town, White Cloud, MI, approximately 13 miles away. No specific stores are mentioned in the provided data.

Driving directionsFrom White Cloud - Travel north on M-37 for 2.5 miles. Turn right and travel east on Monroe St./Old M-20 for 6 miles. Turn left and travel north on Poplar Ave. for 3.5 miles. Turn right and travel east on 6 Mile Rd. for 1.5 miles. Turn right and travel south on FR 5534, road terminates at site.

The campground is accessible via a combination of paved and dirt roads. "The county road is paved and only the last mile to the forest road turn-off is dirt" (Jerry Wontorcik). "The forest road is one lane but maybe only a 1/2 mile back to the campground" (Jerry Wontorcik). Seasonal considerations include no plowing during winter.

Weather at Brush Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Brush Lake Campground

Fall brings the best conditions. Daytime highs run mid-40s to mid-60s°F with nights in the 30s and 40s. Leaf color peaks September through October, and visitor numbers drop midweek compared to summer weekends. Bring warm layers for chilly mornings on the water. Summer turns the campground green and attracts more campers, but multiple reviewers warn that mosquitoes can be relentless. Winter roads remain unplowed and facilities unmaintained.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in MI

Fall (Sept–Oct) is highlighted as best: spectacular hardwood color and prime paddling/photography.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Approximately Memorial Day to Labor Day considered popular dates based on user feedback.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round; Not maintained November 1 – April 30

About Brush Lake Campground

Brush Lake Campground offers primitive camping on National Forest land near White Cloud, Michigan. The 10-site campground costs $10 per night and sits at 1,033 feet elevation, completely surrounded by Huron-Manistee National Forests. Reviews are mixed: visitors praise the quiet setting and affordability but note maintenance issues, minimal privacy between sites, and serious mosquito problems.

Brush Lake Campground caters to primitive and tent camping enthusiasts, with limitations for larger RVs due to challenging access conditions.

Weather and SeasonsFall brings the best conditions. Daytime highs run mid-40s to mid-60s°F with nights in the 30s and 40s. Leaf color peaks September through October, and visitor numbers drop midweek compared to summer weekends. Bring warm layers for chilly mornings on the water. Summer turns the campground green and attracts more campers, but multiple reviewers warn that mosquitoes can be relentless. Winter roads remain unplowed and facilities unmaintained.

ElevationNestled at the gentle elevations characteristic of Michigan's northern forests, the campground offers comfortable camping conditions throughout the warmer months, though specific elevation details await discovery by those who venture here.

Natural Features and SceneryBrush Lake sits within forest shaped by ancient glaciers, its waters bordered entirely by National Forest System lands. The surrounding hardwoods deliver spectacular fall color in September and October, particularly rewarding for paddlers and photographers working the shoreline. Overgrown vegetation has become an issue according to recent reviews, with grass and trees encroaching on sites and access roads. The wilderness feel is real, but so is the upkeep backlog.

Geological RegionCradled within the expansive embrace of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Brush Lake Campground occupies a special corner of Michigan's geological heritage. This protected landscape, shaped by ancient glaciers and nurtured by centuries of forest growth, offers visitors a glimpse into the region's natural history. The serene lake environment, completely surrounded by National Forest System lands, provides an uninterrupted wilderness experience where the only boundaries are the horizons of forest and sky.

Scenic ViewsMany users describe the location as "beautiful" and "serene" (Jake Smith, Drew Tanner). There are lake views which add to the peaceful ambiance.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo information about lodging accommodations is provided.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

No official check-in time provided.

Check-out

No official check-out time provided.

Stay Limit

Camping restricted to 8 people and 2 dwellings per site as per user input.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Campground rules limit each campsite to 8 people.

Groups

No details about group camping sites are provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground has looped turnarounds. Berms and rough road conditions make certain sites difficult to access, especially for larger rigs. Privacy between sites is minimal, and noise carries when the campground fills up on weekends. Best suited for smaller rigs and tents.

Reservation PlatformsNo online reservation platform mentioned. Payment is via honor system.

Walk-in AvailabilityYes, based on honor system payment drop box. "I believe it's an honor system payment set up," user Jake Smith.

Cancellation PolicyNo details on cancellation policies provided.

Site SizeReviewers have noted challenges with accessing certain sites due to road conditions and the presence of berms, suggesting uneven access for larger vehicles.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal according to user reviews, as one noted, 'If there were more people camping it would probably be much louder and there's not much privacy.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesSmaller rigs recommended due to narrow roads and berms at site entrances (Corianne Kellems, Juan Pottin).

Amenities available

Water Potable water is not available at this site.

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The Brush Lake Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for anglers, hunters, and those interested in wildlife viewing. The lake and its surrounding areas provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are prevalent during warmer months, as mentioned by Jerry Wontorcik. Turtles in the lake can pose challenges for fishing (Madalynn Lefler).

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyNo specific fire policies mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No quiet hours specified.

Emergency ServicesBaldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station and District located at 650 North Michigan Ave., Baldwin, MI 49304. Phone: (231) 745-4631. Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (closed on federal holidays).

Water FeaturesBrush Lake is the main water feature, providing opportunities for fishing, non-motorized boating, and wildlife observation.

Camp HostNo hosts are explicitly mentioned.

Cell CoverageOne user reviewer mentioned good Verizon signal and access to six OTA TV channels. There is no specific mention of other carriers or overall coverage quality.

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

4.0

57 reviews

Satisfactory

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

Reviews of Brush Lake Campground are mixed, highlighting its peaceful and scenic environment while also pointing out maintenance issues and challenges for RV campers. Some users appreciated the rustic and quiet nature, while others criticized the prevalence of mosquitoes and overgrown vegetation.

Review Summaries

Based on 57 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the serene and natural setting, affordable $10 per night fee, good Verizon cell signal, and the campground's appeal for fishing and boating.

Based on 57 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints focus on unmaintained and overgrown sites, mosquitoes, lack of privacy, and difficulties for larger RVs due to narrow roads and uneven sites.

Based on 57 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback indicates challenges for larger RVs. One user stated, 'Found only 1 spot that could barely fit us.' Another noted, 'There is a 12" to 14" berm up to the roadway.'

Based on 57 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users suggest bringing bug spray and mosquito nets, and advise that the campground is best suited for smaller rigs and tent camping. One reviewer recommended a weed whacker or lawn mower to manage...

Based on 57 reviews

Seasonal Insights

In peak season (May to October), the campground was described as peaceful but could become crowded and noisy with more visitors. Winter reviews highlight its lack of maintenance and accessibility...

Based on 57 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Good Verizon signal, 6 OTA TV channels.' 2. 'Brush lake campground is beautifal peaceful cheap and worth the 10 dollar a night fee.' 3. 'My family has been camping here for 50+ YEARS! It’s...

Based on 57 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews from users with disabilities were encountered.

Based on 57 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No pet-related reviews were found.

Based on 57 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Paddlers and anglers with small rigs or tents get the most out of this place. The drive-in boat launch on the eastern shore and the carry-in launch inside camp make getting on the water easy, fall color peaks September through October, and $10 cash covers your night.

Skip if

Larger trailers will find the berms and narrow roads a real problem, one reviewer found barely one usable site. Summer mosquitoes are relentless, there's no potable water on-site, and recent reviews show the campground is getting more overgrown each season.

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Campgrounds

Huron-Manistee National Forests

Brush Lake Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Brush Lake Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfs-hmnf/albums/72157664104968285" title="Brush Lake Campground"><img alt="Brush Lake Campground" height="240" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1693/24694346695_ec54cf12ca_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p><p>The campground is located on the shores of Brush Lake, which is entirely surrounded by National Forest System lands. There is a drive-in boat launch on the eastern shore of the river and a smaller carry-in boat launch in the campground. This site is very popular with anglers and hunters. It is also a popular wildlife viewing area and a good stop for viewing fall colors.</p><p><strong><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfs-hmnf/albums/72157664104968285" target="external">Flickr Photo Album</a> </strong></p>

Open Season: May 1 – October 31