Jewell Lake Campground

4.15

25 reviews

Jewell Lake Campground, Barton City, MI, USA

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

900 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Huron National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

900 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Huron National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Jewell Lake Campground

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping costs $15 per night for standard sites. Additional permits are required for commercial, event, or large groups (75 people or more).

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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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USFS

Provider

(989) 739-0728

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What Campers Say

4.15

Satisfactory

Based on 25 reviews

18 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulspaciousbeachsites

"User reviews generally describe Jewell Lake Campground as a secluded and quiet location ideal for campers seeking privacy. The lake is praised for its beauty and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Jewell Lake Campground, Barton City, MI, USA

Jewell Lake Campground

Jewell Lake Campground, Barton City, MI, USA

Driving directionsFrom Barton City, MI, take Trask Lake Rd. east for 0.8 miles to the campground sign. Turn right onto Forest Rt. 4601 and proceed to the campground. From Harrisville, travel west on M-72 for 14.5 miles, turn right onto Sanborn Rd. for 2 miles, then left onto FR 4601 for 0.5 miles.

Access is via paved roads until the forest route, which is unpaved but suitable for standard vehicles. The road may be gated when the campground is closed seasonally.

Nearby places

Harrisville (15 miles, 20 minutes), Barton City (0.8 miles, 2 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies available in Harrisville, approximately 15 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Jewell Lake Campground

Experience the full spectrum of Michigan's seasons at Jewell Lake, where summer brings perfect camping weather with mild mornings giving way to warm, sun-drenched afternoons ideal for swimming and water sports. As autumn approaches, the surrounding Aspens burst into golden flames, creating a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with crisp air and heavy cloud cover creating a cozy atmosphere for those brave enough to cold-weather camp. Spring awakens the forest with fresh growth and the return of migrating birds, making each season a unique chapter in your camping story.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Prime season for swimming, boating and fishing; reviewers note mild mornings, warm afternoons.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open into October; aspen groves imply attractive fall color and quieter campsites.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Opens May 3; late-spring conditions viable but cooler and shorter season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Nov–Apr (open May 3–Oct 31); winter camping not available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day (weather-dependent).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from May 3 to October 31.

About Jewell Lake Campground

Tucked away on the eastern shores of the pristine 193-acre Jewell Lake, this hidden gem offers an escape into nature's embrace. Here, deeply carved campsites nestle beneath towering Aspen groves, their leaves whispering secrets in the breeze. Each spacious site provides a private sanctuary where solitude seekers can reconnect with the wilderness. Steps from your tent, a sandy beach beckons for lazy afternoons, while the nearby boat launch opens up adventures across the mirror-like waters. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, diving into refreshing waters on a summer day, or paddling into the sunset, Jewell Lake Campground delivers the peaceful outdoor experience your soul craves.

Jewell Lake Campground primarily caters to primitive and tent camping enthusiasts, with additional space for group camping.

Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil spot remains unwritten, the ancient Aspens and glacial waters tell their own timeless story. This pristine corner of Michigan has served as a natural refuge for generations of outdoor enthusiasts seeking simplicity and connection with the land.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Michigan's seasons at Jewell Lake, where summer brings perfect camping weather with mild mornings giving way to warm, sun-drenched afternoons ideal for swimming and water sports. As autumn approaches, the surrounding Aspens burst into golden flames, creating a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with crisp air and heavy cloud cover creating a cozy atmosphere for those brave enough to cold-weather camp. Spring awakens the forest with fresh growth and the return of migrating birds, making each season a unique chapter in your camping story.

ElevationPerched at a comfortable 900 feet above sea level, the campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and natural beauty. This modest elevation provides excellent drainage for campsites while maintaining easy access to the lake's edge, creating an ideal setting for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a cathedral of Aspen trees, their distinctive white bark glowing in the morning light. The campground's crown jewel, Jewell Lake, stretches before you—a sparkling glacial masterpiece that reflects the sky like nature's own mirror. Dense forest surrounds this aquatic oasis, creating a natural amphitheater of green that shields campers from the outside world. Wildlife tracks crisscross the sandy beach at dawn, while the gentle lapping of waves provides nature's soundtrack throughout your stay.

Geological RegionCarved by ancient glaciers thousands of years ago, Jewell Lake stands as a testament to nature's artistry within the vast Huron National Forest. This 193-acre glacial lake represents one of Michigan's natural treasures, where crystal-clear waters meet shores lined with distinctive Aspen groves. The surrounding forested terrain creates a diverse ecosystem where hardwoods blend with conifers, forming a rich tapestry of habitats that support abundant wildlife and offer endless exploration opportunities for curious campers.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Open 24/7 unless otherwise posted.

Check-out

Gates close seasonally.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground has 32 sites, including 31 combined tent/RV sites and 1 tent-only site. All sites are equipped with tables and grills.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform available; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll 32 sites are first-come, first-served.

Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy is mentioned, as reservations are not accepted.

AccessibilityThe campground lacks wheelchair-friendly toilets and facilities, limiting accessibility options for those with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites are described as "spacious" and "deep" by reviewers.

PrivacyThe sites are secluded and offer significant privacy, with some reviews highlighting that the campground is often "1/10th full" even during peak summer months.

Total Campsites32 campsites

Recommended SitesStake out the best sites early, as popular ones may be taken quickly.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Jewell Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its 193-acre lake. Popular activities include fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking. Winter sports such as snowmobiling are also available during colder months.

FishingFishing opportunities are abundant, with Bluegill, Rock Bass, Perch, and Northern Pike commonly found in Jewell Lake. Both beginner and expert anglers are likely to enjoy the experience.

SwimmingSwimming is available at the sandy beach along Jewell Lake. Reviewers describe the lake as "adorable" and the beach as "nice."

BoatingBoating is supported with motorized and non-motorized options. A boat ramp is available for convenience.

Beach activitiesBeach-related activities at Jewell Lake include swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beach.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsVault toilets may become unpleasant in heat. Wildlife, including bears, may be present.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated pits at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not specified.

Emergency ServicesHuron Shores Ranger Station (5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750, approximately 20 miles)

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned; campers likely need to pack out their waste.

Water FeaturesLocated directly on Jewell Lake, with sandy beach access and a boat launch for both motorized and non-motorized boating.

Camp HostNo campground host available.

Weather at Jewell Lake Campground

Reviews

4.2

25 reviews

Satisfactory

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

User reviews generally describe Jewell Lake Campground as a secluded and quiet location ideal for campers seeking privacy. The lake is praised for its beauty and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive highlights include spacious campsites, a beautiful sandy beach, and ample activities like fishing and swimming. Reviewers also appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds.

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints focus on issues such as inconsiderate campers bringing generators and karaoke machines, as well as unpleasant smells from vault toilets during hot weather.

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure preferred campsites. They also advise bringing necessary provisions, including drinking water, as potable water is unavailable.

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During summer, the campground is described as quiet and uncrowded, with only a few campers present even in July. Toilets may smell unpleasant in the heat but improve as temperatures cool. Winter...

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campground is very nice if you enjoy your privacy. The sites are very spacious." - Albert Emery "Adorable little lake. Nice Sandy Beach. Primitive camping but each site has a fire pit with a...

Based on 25 reviews