Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Star4.16
208 reviews
P.O. Box 307, Florence, WI, 54121, USA
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,844 ft

Price

$22 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

48 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Camp Host, LLC (Special Use Permit from Ottawa National Forest) site

Official Website
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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
Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground
$22.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates range from $22.00 nightly for standard nonelectric sites to $26.00 nightly for standard electric sites during peak season (May 23 -...
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Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$5.00

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Provider
906-396-5428Chase@wildriversrealty.com
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What Campers Say

4.16

Satisfactory

Based on 208 reviews

3 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanfriendlywell-maintained

Some mention

noisemosquitoes

"User reviews are mixed, with many praising the natural beauty and cleanliness of the campground but expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of operational showers and poor cell phone service."

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Campground Map

P.O. Box 307, Florence, WI, 54121, USA

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

P.O. Box 307, Florence, WI, 54121, USA

Driving directionsFrom Watersmeet, MI, take US 2 west approximately 3.5 miles to County Road 535, turn left onto County Road 535 and travel approximately 3.5 miles to the Sylvania Wilderness Recreation Area entrance on left.
The campground is located approximately 7 miles southwest of Watersmeet, Michigan, off Highway U.S. 2. Roads appear to be paved and accessible, but reviews mention detours and potential navigation challenges at the north entrance, which may require clarification from local facilities.
Nearby places
Watersmeet, MI (~7 miles)
Bond Falls (~20 minutes northeast)
Porcupine Mountains (~1 hour northwest)
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (~2 hours northeast)
Keweenaw Peninsula (~1.5 hours north).
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Watersmeet, MI (~7 miles). Additional camping supplies may be found at Sylvania Outfitters, also in Watersmeet.

Best Time to Camp at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Summer brings warm days perfect for paddling and hiking, though the ancient forest's moisture creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes – seasoned visitors know that good repellent is as essential as a tent. As autumn arrives, the wilderness transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and orange, making fall arguably the most spectacular season to visit. While seasonal facility closures mean showers may not always be available, the trade-off is experiencing nature at its most authentic, from misty mornings on the lake to crisp evenings around the campfire.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season for paddling, hiking and swimming; busy and buggy (mosquitoes) in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Quieter with beautiful foliage; many reviewers recommend fall for serenity and views.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Late spring opening; good for early paddling but variable weather and bugs can affect visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 23–Sep 30; winter rating not applicable.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 - September 30, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, through September 30, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Facility closures include showers and entrance stations due to staffing shortages, noted in user reviews.

About Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Deep within the Sylvania Wilderness Area, where ancient forests meet crystal-clear waters, Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground offers an escape into one of Michigan's last untouched paradises. This tranquil retreat features 48 thoughtfully spaced drive-in campsites across four intimate loops, each offering a gateway to adventure. Whether you're gliding across mirror-like lakes in your kayak or wandering beneath towering hemlocks and pines that have stood for centuries, this campground serves as your basecamp for exploring some of the Midwest's most pristine wilderness.
The campground accommodates a range of campers with facilities for primitive, RV, and tent camping. Some sites are reservable, while others operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in is officially at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is officially at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights per visit.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Sylvania Wilderness offers a diverse range of activities, popular among nature enthusiasts. Non-motorized boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are key attractions due to the abundance of pristine lakes. Other activities include hiking on well-maintained trails, wildlife viewing, and swimming at the designated beach. Several reviews highlight the peaceful setting, excellent paddling opportunities, and the chance to encounter wildlife.
HikingThe hiking trails in the Sylvania Wilderness are well-maintained and provide access to old-growth forests and lake views. 'The hiking was wonderful. I have been coming up to Sylvania for over 35 years and the trails remain in wonderful condition' (Philip P, August 22, 2021).
FishingFishing is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch various species in the numerous lakes. One user noted, 'If you're going to fish, it's the best there is' (Robin T, July 1, 2023). However, some comments mention illegal fishing activities, which detract from the experience.
SwimmingThe campground includes a swimming beach, described as a highlight of the area. However, several reviews mention that the beach is a significant distance from campsites, requiring vehicular access.
BoatingBoating, canoeing, and kayaking are highly recommended by visitors. Several campers emphasized the tranquility and lack of crowds on the lakes.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a major draw, with common sightings including bald eagles, loons, and osprey. 'As a wildlife photographer, I was rewarded with views of eagles, loons, a fox, and more' (Lester G, June 2, 2023).
Beach activitiesThe beach area offers swimming and relaxing activities, though accessibility from campsites is a recurring issue. 'The beach was beautiful, but we definitely needed to drive to the beach vs. walk as it is a long ways from the campsite' (Maria Z, July 19, 2021).
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes and other biting insects are significant hazards, particularly in summer. Lightning storms have been reported by users, and black sand flies occasionally appear.
Active AlertsFacility closures include showers and entrance stations due to staffing shortages, noted in user reviews.

Weather at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Reviews

4.2
208 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with many praising the natural beauty and cleanliness of the campground but expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of operational showers and poor cell phone service.
Review Summaries
Based on 208 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful campground hosts, excellent fishing and paddling opportunities, and tranquil setting surrounded by old-growth forests.
Based on 208 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the prolonged closure of the shower building, poor cell phone reception, and mosquito infestations. Generator use and noise levels are also mentioned as detracting from...
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Based on 208 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent and/or netting due to significant insect activity. Be prepared for the closure of shower facilities and consider alternative bathing arrangements. Utilize the campground's...
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Based on 208 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer months when mosquitoes are also at their worst. Fall is noted for its beautiful foliage and quieter atmosphere.
Based on 208 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground hosts were extremely helpful and friendly. Bathrooms at the campground were very clean and kept well supplied (Donald L, June 4, 2023). 2. 'The hiking was wonderful... the trails...
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Based on 208 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 033 (Loop 3) is close to bathrooms, which some users found convenient. Site 048 (Loop 4) received complaints about mosquitoes and generator noise. Site 046 (Loop 4) is praised for its proximity...
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Based on 208 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility to trails is limited for individuals with mobility challenges. No specific reviews from users with disabilities were available.
Based on 208 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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