Bobcat Lake Camp

Star4.26
26 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,601 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Marenisco District, Ottawa National Forest site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Bobcat Lake Camp
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping is free from October to April; modest fees are charged from May to September.
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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What Campers Say

4.26

Satisfactory

Based on 26 reviews

21 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanlake

Some mention

noisemosquitoesroad noise

"User reviews emphasize the campground's natural beauty, peaceful environment, and lakeside sites, although issues like mosquitoes and disturbances from fireworks are noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Bobcat Lake Camp

46.3592, -89.6729

Nearby supplies
Supplies are likely available in Marenisco.

Best Time to Camp at Bobcat Lake Camp

Experience the dramatic personality shifts of Michigan's Upper Peninsula throughout the year. Summer arrives with warm days perfect for swimming and hiking, though nature's tiny residents—mosquitoes—can be enthusiastic in their welcome. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, these buzzing companions retreat, leaving behind crisp air and peaceful evenings around the campfire. Each season brings its own magic to this woodland retreat.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Warm water and swimming, but heavy mosquito activity and some disturbance reports in summer.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall noted as quieter, less buggy, and good for scenic foliage — reviewers recommend it.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Seasonal shifts mentioned but few specifics; spring conditions and amenities not detailed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open year-round, but no winter-activity details; likely quiet but limited services/activity info.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May to September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round. Free camping from October to April; fees apply May to September.
  • Current Alerts: No current active alerts are mentioned.

About Bobcat Lake Camp

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Ottawa National Forest, Bobcat Lake Camp offers an authentic escape into nature's embrace. This intimate, rustic campground rewards spontaneous adventurers with its first-come, first-served policy—no reservations needed, just show up and claim your slice of tranquility. Here, the modern world fades away as you settle into the simple rhythm of forest life.
Bobcat Lake Campground offers rustic camping options, focusing on a natural and quiet experience.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per visit.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Bobcat Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors, emphasizing fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural setting. The lake provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and water-based recreation.
FishingFishing is a popular activity here, as noted by users: "The fishing was good just a few places from where we slept."
SwimmingA "nice swimming beach" is available nearby but is not immediately adjacent to the campground. This beach is described as "the nicest swimming area in this district of the Ottawa."
BoatingBobcat Lake is described as ideal for kayaking: "Kayak right up to your tent." Boating opportunities seem to focus on non-motorized activities.
Wildlife viewingThe campground is described as offering "nice wildlife" and opportunities for bird watching. However, disturbances like fireworks have temporarily disrupted the natural tranquility.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are described as "unbearable" in the summer by user reviews. Fireworks disturbance also caused issues for some visitors.
Active AlertsNo current active alerts are mentioned.

Weather at Bobcat Lake Camp

Reviews

4.3
26 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Bobcat Lake Camp is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the campground's natural beauty, peaceful environment, and lakeside sites, although issues like mosquitoes and disturbances from fireworks are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praise the "well-spaced sites" and "fantastic views" by the lake. Amenities like clean vault toilets and a quiet atmosphere are also appreciated. The lake is ideal for kayaking and fishing.
Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes are a significant issue during summer months. Some disturbances like fireworks have been reported, and a lack of on-site management was noted as a drawback.
Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest coming in the fall to avoid mosquitoes and enjoy cooler weather. It is also recommended to bring mosquito netting and bug spray during the summer. "Come early in the year or late in...
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Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months have high mosquito activity, making it less comfortable for some campers. In contrast, fall offers quieter, less buggy conditions with scenic foliage.
Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Sites are well-spaced, lots of privacy." "Kayak right up to your tent." "Fantastic and beautiful place to relax in the quiet wilderness."
Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific details include comments that most sites are lakeside and provide excellent views. "Eleven sites, and while some are certainly better than others the majority are on the lakeside."
Based on 26 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 26 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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