Island Lake (Mi)

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Island Lake (Mi)
Family FriendlySummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,342 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Site is gated in the...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Opens Huron-Manistee National Forest (Mio Ranger District) site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Island Lake (Mi)
No fees available
Campsite Fees
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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Provider
(989) 826-3252
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What Campers Say

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Limited Reviews

Based on 0 reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefullakebeach

"Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, describing Island Lake as beautiful, peaceful, and a beloved family destination over many years. Visitors highlight its relaxing atmosphere, scenic views, and enjoyable beach and campground area, with only a few notes that some upkeep could be improved."

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Campground Map

Island Lake (Mi)

Island Lake (Mi)

44.5100, -84.1417

Driving directionsFrom West Branch: Travel east on M-55 for 5 miles. Turn left and travel north on M-33 for 16 miles. Turn left and travel west on Loon Lake Loop Rd. for 1 mile. The site is located on the left.
Accessible via M-33; turn onto Loon Lake Loop Rd. to reach the site.
Nearby places
Directions provided from West Branch: 5 miles east on M-55, then 16 miles north on M-33, then 1 mile west on Loon Lake Loop Rd.
site is described as a short drive north on M-33 from Rose City, MI.

Best Time to Camp at Island Lake (Mi)

Island Lake operates seasonally with gates closing during the off-season months, making advance planning essential for your visit. The lake's waters maintain their refreshingly crisp, cold temperatures throughout the summer—a bracing reminder of the glacial forces that carved this beautiful basin thousands of years ago. This natural coolness offers welcome relief on warm Michigan days, though swimmers should come prepared for an invigorating plunge.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Beach, swimming, and non-motorized boating make summer the peak season; reviewers praise summer visits.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Mixed hardwood forest 'blazes with color' in autumn; scenic fall foliage is a draw.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Seasonal opening offers cool temps, wildlife viewing and boating as ice clears; early spring access may be limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Site gates close in the off-season; winter access is limited/closed.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Site is gated in the off-season.

About Island Lake (Mi)

Nestled along the southern edge of the Mio Ranger District, Island Lake Campground beckons visitors to its inviting shores where a 58-acre glacial lake meets pristine Michigan forest. This well-appointed destination combines comfortable amenities—including paved campsites, picnic facilities, and a marked swimming beach—with a scenic hiking trail that winds through landscapes shaped by ancient ice.
Developed campground with individual campsites and an embedded day-use area featuring a swimming beach and picnic facilities.
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Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Recreation focuses on water-based activities at the 58-acre Island Lake (swimming, fishing, non-motorized boating), a 1.25-mile nature loop trail, and nearby OHV trail access. The site also offers wildlife and waterfowl viewing opportunities and a developed day-use beach and picnic area.
HikingA 1.25-mile loop trail departs from the campground; a spur connects Island Lake Campground with Loon Lake Day Use Area.
FishingAnglers can fish Island Lake (maximum depth ~25 feet) for sunfish, perch, and bass.
SwimmingDay-use swimming beach marked with buoys; water temperature is cold.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is popular; visitors can carry in kayaks, canoes, and other non-motorized watercraft a short distance from the day-use parking area to the beach.
Wildlife viewingMixed hardwood forest and shoreline provide wildlife and waterfowl viewing opportunities; the island in Island Lake is visible from the day-use area.
Beach activitiesDay-use beach on Island Lake with buoyed swimming area and adjacent picnic facilities.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWater temperature is cold (swimming). Nearby Forest Service roads and trail systems are used by OHVs; users should consult MVUM for allowed routes.

Weather at Island Lake (Mi)

Reviews

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0 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Island Lake (Mi) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, describing Island Lake as beautiful, peaceful, and a beloved family destination over many years. Visitors highlight its relaxing atmosphere, scenic views, and enjoyable beach and campground area, with only a few notes that some upkeep could be improved.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

Reviewers love the lake’s natural beauty, peaceful and quiet setting, and family-friendly atmosphere. Several mention the nice beach and campground area, as well as the enjoyment of non-motorized...
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Common Concerns

A small number of reviewers note that while they love the lake, it is “not very well kept,” suggesting some maintenance or cleanliness issues in certain areas. No other recurring complaints are...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations

Expect a quiet, motor-free lake ideal for paddling, sailing small boats, and relaxing rather than powerboating or jet skiing. Plan to enjoy the beach and campground area, and come prepared for a more...
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Camper Quotes

"A beautiful lake that we have had a family cottage on since the early 1970's. Many wonderful childhood and adult memories made here." "Island Lake also has a nice beach area that has a campground in...
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Last updated February 2, 2026
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Island Lake (Mi)