Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground

Star4.53
22 reviews
Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,165 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Michigan DNR site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

March 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

March 2026
Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Official fee schedule not listed on the campground detail page. Public reviews note a recent rate of $15 per night (previously $11), subject to...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
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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Michigan
Provider
(906) 786-2351
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What Campers Say

4.53

Top-Rated

Based on 22 reviews

16 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietshadehikinglake

Some mention

small

"Reviewers generally praise the campground as quiet, scenic and well-suited for anglers, paddlers and trail users; many 5-star reviews highlight the trails, lake access and secluded wooded sites. Common criticisms include minimal facilities (rustic toilets, occasional supply issues), rough access roads and occasional noisy campers."

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Campground Map

Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground

Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground

46.2231, -87.4945

Nearby places
Gwinn — about 5 miles (nearest services).
Nearby supplies
Gwinn (about 5 miles) — gas, small stores, takeout (local options mentioned such as Rodney's pizza).

Best Time to Camp at Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground

Summer brings warm days ideal for paddling and fishing, though you'll want to pack bug spray for the mosquitoes that call this wetland paradise home. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, and while the campground stays open year-round, unplowed roads mean you'll need to embrace true backcountry access. Come prepared for classic Upper Peninsula weather—dramatic seasonal shifts that make each visit feel like a completely different adventure.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Mixed hardwoods suggest good fall color; trails and solitude remain attractive in autumn.

Planning Tips

  • Operating Season: Open year-round; campground and seasonal roads are not plowed (winter access requires appropriate vehicle/gear).

About Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground

Escape to Anderson Lake West, where 13 first-come, first-served campsites nestle beneath towering white pines on a peaceful hillside above the lake. This rustic state forest gem offers the simplicity of vault toilets and hand-pumped water, plus immediate access to the scenic 6-mile Anderson Lake Pathway—perfect for those seeking an authentic, off-the-grid camping experience.
Small, fully rustic lakeside state forest campground with 13 first-come, first-served sites for tent and trailer use.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
15-day maximum stay.

Amenities available

Potable water
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Small, rustic lakeside campground good for paddling, fishing, hiking and quiet wildlife viewing; trail access within the campground supports hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
Fishing
Biking
Boating
Wildlife viewing
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRough/gravel campground and approach roads in spots; seasonal roads not plowed in winter. Limited to moderate cell coverage expected. Typical U.P. wildlife present; campers are advised to store food securely and plan for insects. No electricity or hookups at sites.

Weather at Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open upCheck WeatherHistorical weather dataGear for This TripMatched gear recommendationsPacking ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources
4.5
22 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviewers generally praise the campground as quiet, scenic and well-suited for anglers, paddlers and trail users; many 5-star reviews highlight the trails, lake access and secluded wooded sites. Common criticisms include minimal facilities (rustic toilets, occasional supply issues), rough access roads and occasional noisy campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews

What Campers Love

Quiet, secluded setting; shaded sites under large white pines; good fishing and paddling on Anderson Lake; on-site Anderson Lake Pathway provides 6 miles of trail for hiking, biking and skiing;...
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Based on 22 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Sites are first-come, first-served—arrive early on weekends to secure a lake-side site; bring toiletries, insect protection and supplies (potable water is from a hand-pump); expect minimal services...
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Based on 22 reviews
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Last updated March 8, 2026
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Anderson Lake West State Forest Campground