How much does camping cost at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Camping fees at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground are $22 - $26/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground before I book?

Yes! Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground has 16 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground is open May 22 to September 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Yes, Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground have?

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground has 48 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Popular activities at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Fire policies at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground: Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org .. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.14

208 reviews

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

Top 18%Fall

CReport Card

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

ElectricShowers

Book on Camp Host, LLC (Special Use Permit from Ottawa National Forest)Official Website

Get Directions

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

ElectricShowers

Book on Camp Host, LLC (Special Use Permit from Ottawa National Forest)Official Website

Get Directions

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

$22.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $26.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $26.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $22.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone /...

Standard Site Fee$22.00

Hookup Site Fee$26.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$5.00

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

906-396-5428sm.fs.Ottawa_NF@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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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

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).

Weather at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Current alerts(4)

Campers must occupy the site the first night.
Camping in a developed recreation site is allowed for a period not longer than 14 days.
Eight people and two motorized vehicles are allowed per campsite with a maximum of one RV or camper trailer and two tents per camping site or three tents per camping site.
This campground is operated by Camp Host, LLC under a special use permit with the Ottawa National Forest.

Best Time to Camp at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Best season: fall. Autumn delivers the campground’s standout draw: vibrant northern hardwood and conifer color against mirror-like lakes, with cool, crisp days ideal for paddling and photography. Expect daytime highs in the 45–60°F range in September, cooling into the 30s–40s at night, which also cuts down on bugs and brings quieter trails and campsites. Fall is prime for hiking, wildlife viewing (deer and raptors are active), and peaceful canoeing before the site closes for the season, with moderate crowds that w Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 18% in US

Identified as best season: vibrant foliage, cool days, ideal for paddling and photography.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, through September 30, 2025.

About Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Sylvania Campground sits on Clark Lake in Wisconsin's Ottawa National Forest, just across the border from Watersmeet, Michigan. Operated under special use permit by Camp Host, LLC, this mid-sized campground offers electric hookups, showers, and a dump station alongside primitive walk-in options, all surrounded by old-growth forest and mirror-like lakes. Visitors come for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing on trails that wind through northern hardwood and conifer stands.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Autumn delivers the campground’s standout draw: vibrant northern hardwood and conifer color against mirror-like lakes, with cool, crisp days ideal for paddling and photography. Expect daytime highs in the 45–60°F range in September, cooling into the 30s–40s at night, which also cuts down on bugs and brings quieter trails and campsites. Fall is prime for hiking, wildlife viewing (deer and raptors are active), and peaceful canoeing before the site closes for the season, with moderate crowds that w Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1844 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies old-growth forest where hemlocks and pines surround a network of pristine lakes. Natural vegetation screens sites from each other. Moose browse at water's edge. Bald eagles and ospreys hunt over the lakes. Loons call across the water in early morning. The forest retains its ancient character, with centuries-old trees and clear water that reflects the canopy.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or cabins are available. The campground is designed for tent and RV camping.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information about cultural or educational programs was found.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each campsite accommodates up to 8 people, with 2 motorized vehicles, 1 RV or trailer, and 2 tents—or 3 tents total.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their contact center.

AccessibilityThe campground includes an accessible vault toilet. However, accessibility to other facilities like trails could be challenging for individuals with mobility issues, as noted by one reviewer: 'My only request is that... could you consider making a short trail for people with disabilities?' (Mary L, September 25, 2021).

Site SizeCamp sites vary in size. Some users noted that sites were smaller and required creative setups for multiple tents, though others reported ample space.

PrivacySites are described as private and surrounded by natural vegetation, offering good screening between sites.

Total Campsites48 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors recommend bringing mosquito netting and planning for non-shower hygiene during stays. Sites near bathrooms offer convenience but less privacy.

Best CampsitesSites 039 and 046 in Loop 4 get mentioned for lake proximity. Bathrooms near sites 033 and 046 draw praise in reviews.

Need help booking Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground offers a variety of amenities, making it suitable for tent camping, RVs, and trailers. The campground includes drive-in sites equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts, as well as natural vegetation for privacy. Drinking water is available at faucets in Loops 2, 3, and 4. There are two flush toilet facilities and one accessible vault toilet spaced evenly throughout the campground. A day-use facility adjacent to the campground provides access to showers, a picnic area, canoe landings, trailheads, and a swimming beach. RVs can use the water and sewage dump station for $5. Firewood is available for campers, and some sites are equipped with electricity. However, user reviews suggest that the shower building at the beach has been closed for a prolonged period due to staffing and management issues. Many visitors have also commented on the clean and well-maintained restrooms, thanks to the efforts of the campground hosts.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

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.

Boating5.0/5Top 2%

Wildlife viewing5.0/5Top 1%

Moose, bald eagles, ospreys and loons commonly seen; wildlife viewing is a major draw.

Hiking4.0/5

Well‑maintained Sylvania Wilderness trails give access to old‑growth forest and lake views.

Fishing4.0/5

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayaking/canoeing repeatedly recommended across numerous pristine lakes.

Swimming3.0/5

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote wilderness setting and poor cell service imply dark skies good for stargazing.

Photography5.0/5Fall foliage, mirror‑like lakes and wildlife repeatedly called out as photogenic features.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org .

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is reported to be unreliable. One user stated, 'We have T Mobile and Verizon neither of which worked great even with a booster' (Michelle StClair, October 2023).

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

208 reviews

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

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 208 reviews.

Site 033 (Loop 3)Loved
Site 033 (Loop 3) is close to bathrooms, which some users found convenient.
Site 046 (Loop 4)Loved
Site 046 (Loop 4) is praised for its proximity to clean bathrooms and quiet setting.
Site 048 (Loop 4)Issues noted
Site 048 (Loop 4) received complaints about mosquitoes and generator noise.

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...

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...

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...

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

Outdoorithm Community

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Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

$22.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $26.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $26.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $22.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone /...

Standard Site Fee$22.00

Hookup Site Fee$26.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$5.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-396-5428sm.fs.Ottawa_NF@usda.gov

Go if

You want quiet paddling and fishing access with fall color, helpful hosts, and a mix of hookup and walk-in sites.

Skip if

You're sensitive to generator noise at non-electric sites or need guaranteed shower availability during your stay.

Nearby Campgrounds

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4.3

(226)

Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping

SYLVANIA WILDERNESS, E23979 US 2 EAST, WATERSMEET, MI 49969, USA

Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping sits within Ottawa National Forest near Watersmeet, offering primitive tent camping among old-growth forests and pristine lakes in Michigan's foothills. Managed by the national forest, the mid-sized area draws paddlers, anglers, and hikers seeking solitude on a network of backcountry sites. Vault toilets and fire rings provide basic infrastructure, while the wilderness designation prohibits commercial operations and preserves the area's remote character.

Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Campground Map

Weather at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Planning Tips

About Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

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Amenities available

RV details

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What Campers Love

Common Concerns

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Ask Camp Sage about Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Planning Tips

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Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Sylvania (Clark Lake) Campground

Policies & Safety

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What Campers Love

Common Concerns