Au Train Lake Campground
4.54163 reviewsP.O. Box 171, Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Au Train Lake Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Recreation Use Fee: $24 per night during both Peak and First-come, First-served seasons. Reservation Service Fee: $8 online/app, $9 contact center, $3 in-person. Additional fees for late cancellations and modifications may apply.
About this campground
Escape to AuTrain Lake Campground, where the whispers of the Hiawatha National Forest create a natural symphony for your outdoor adventure. This hidden gem beckons families and nature lovers with its generously spaced, wooded campsites that welcome both tent campers and RV travelers. As one delighted visitor shared, 'The quiet setting is great for family trips,' perfectly capturing the peaceful atmosphere that makes this destination a favorite retreat from the everyday hustle.
Au Train Lake Campground caters primarily to rustic camping with options for tent and RV sites. It also accommodates first-come, first-serve campers alongside reserved spots.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground's modern amenities serve today's adventurers, the surrounding Hiawatha National Forest holds centuries of stories within its ancient trees and pristine waters, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Michigan's Upper Peninsula seasons at AuTrain Lake. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and moderate temperatures, creating perfect conditions for hiking, swimming, and campfire stories. July stands out as the prime month for dry camping, when comfortable weather invites long days of outdoor exploration. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, offering a completely different but equally enchanting experience for those brave enough to embrace the cold.
ElevationThe campground's setting provides a comfortable base for exploring the varied terrain of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, from wetlands to rolling hills.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering pines and shimmering aspens create a living cathedral above your campsite. The rolling hills of Michigan's Upper Peninsula cradle this woodland sanctuary, while expansive wetlands—some open to the sky, others sheltered by ancient trees—paint an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty. As camper Julie Rumrill beautifully noted, 'Sites are wooded and private and you are serenaded by songbirds,' a testament to the intimate connection with nature you'll find here. The nearby presence of three Great Lakes adds to the region's dramatic beauty and ecological diversity.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, AuTrain Lake Campground serves as your gateway to the magnificent Hiawatha National Forest. This privileged location places you within reach of three of North America's Great Lakes, offering a rare opportunity to explore one of the continent's most significant freshwater ecosystems. The surrounding landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient glaciers carved rolling hills and created the diverse wetlands that now support an incredible array of wildlife and plant species.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible, and the campground has well-maintained nature trails, such as the Songbird interpretive trail. However, some areas may have uneven terrain or sand making access challenging.
Sites SizeCampground sites are generally spacious, capable of accommodating multiple tents and RVs, with some sites large enough for up to four tents.
Sites PrivacyMost campsites offer good privacy, with dense brush between areas creating a secluded feeling. However, some reviewers noted clustered tent sections with less privacy.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near water (e.g., #26 and #29) are recommended for better views. "If you can score a site that has access/view of the water, awesome." (Becca Birckhead, user review).
Best CampsitesPopular sites include #13, #24, #26 and #29, which offer proximity to water or unique features like pathways.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
NOON
Check-out
NOON
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Some sites reportedly accommodate up to 4 tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops with sites that are large, wooded, and semi-secluded.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23, 2025 – September 29, 2025 (reservable); September 30, 2025 – May 14, 2026 (closed for reservations).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are available first-come, first-served. "Reserved sites will be held until checkout time (NOON) the day following your arrival date."
Cancellation PolicyRefunds are subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations for individual campsites incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to stay dates require a $10 modification fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Au Train Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, making it a great choice for family trips and nature enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and biking.
Hiking
The campground features access to the Songbird interpretive trail, a two-mile path that traverses forests, bogs, and lakeshores. This trail is renowned for birding and includes educational markers identifying local species.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with anglers targeting bass and perch in AuTrain Lake. Some campsites offer direct lake access, enhancing the fishing experience.Swimming
Swimming is available, though the designated area is small and surrounded by marsh plants. The water is shallow, less than 3 feet deep, making it better suited for wading than extensive swimming.Biking
Biking is possible around the campground and nearby attractions such as AuTrain Falls are often reached via bike rides.Boating
Boating is encouraged with facilities like a boat ramp available. Campers often tie boats adjacent to their campsites, particularly those with lakefront access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, especially at the raised observation platform overlooking AuTrain Lake. Birds, beavers, and chipmunks are commonly spotted.Beach activities
Beach-related activities near Lake Superior are a major draw, including sunbathing and kayaking. The sandy beaches are accessible within 5 miles of the campground.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational markers along the Songbird trail provide insights into local bird species, enriching the hiking experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed for this campground.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports here, with rentals available in nearby AuTrain.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. "Firewood available for sale at the host site."
- Quiet hours are 10 PM enforced, though inconsistency noted in user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitoes during certain seasons, uneven terrain, and muddy shoreline access at some sites.
Active alertsNone currently specified.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Munising, approximately 10 miles away, which includes medical facilities, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 – September 29 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available on-site, but recycling options are not mentioned. Guests are advised to keep campsites clean and utilize the provided waste disposal areas.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites near AuTrain Lake offer easy boat access, wildlife observation, and water-based activities like kayaking.
Common complaintsNoise enforcement during quiet hours is inconsiderate, as noted: "Quiet hours are completely unenforced." (Stacey Murphy, user review)
HostHosts regularly clean vault toilets and assist campers. "Hosts were amazing and made us feel very welcome/cared for." (Chelsea Keria, user review)
Campground Map
P.O. Box 171, Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Driving directionsAuTrain Lake Campground is located in Alger County, about 10 miles southwest of Munising. From AuTrain, travel south on Forest Service Road H03 for about 4 miles, then go a mile east on Forest Road 2276, and then another mile north on Forest Service Road 2596 to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with the exception of some narrow dirt roads that could pose challenges, particularly for larger vehicles or during inclement weather. "Fortunately, my GPS quickly found another road, this time paved, and in no time I arrived at AuTrain Lake Campground" (Jack K, user review).Nearby places
AuTrain: 5 miles (approximately 10 minutes)
Munising: 10 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
Marquette: approximately 45 miles.
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores, kayak rentals, and a pizza place are located in AuTrain, 5 miles away. Near Munising (10 miles), visitors can find grocery stores, hardware stores, and tourist facilities.
Camper Reviews
4.5
163 reviews
Au Train Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Au Train Lake Campground highlight spacious sites, clean vault toilets, helpful hosts, and proximity to local attractions such as Pictured Rocks and Lake Superior. However, common complaints include inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours and lack of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 163 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites, clean vault toilets, helpful and friendly camp hosts, proximity to Lake Superior and Pictured Rocks. Reviewers also praise the Songbird trail and the nature observation platform.
Based on 163 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of shower facilities, inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours, small swimming area, and occasional noise from neighboring campers. Some users reported clustered tent areas lacking privacy.
Based on 163 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for first-come, first-serve sites, bring bug spray, and prepare for limited cell service. Utilize local firewood vendors for quality wood. The Songbird trail is a must-visit for birding...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are most popular, with reviews mentioning family-friendly activities and well-maintained facilities. Fall reviews highlight the peace and quiet as activity decreases.
Based on 163 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Vault toilets were the cleanest I've ever used." "The hosts were amazing and made us feel welcome." "Songbird trail felt like a soundtrack with bird songs everywhere." "Sites are spacious and offer...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #29 has lake access and magical vibes according to users. Site #13 is highlighted for its proximity to the lake. Site #26 offers convenient water access. Site #19 is noted for a nice view and...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but uneven terrain and sand may challenge certain areas. Garden carts are provided for transporting gear, which could be difficult for campers with...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but limited to two per site. Reviewers appreciated the campground's pet-friendly attitude, mentioning interactions with other pet owners.
Based on 163 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025