Bear Lake Campsite
3.8010 reviews8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
Bear Lake Campsite
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
The nightly fee for this campsite is $8 during peak season (May 15 - October 9). This does not include reservation fees, taxes, or incremental charges. Discounts may apply for certain Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Hiawatha National Forest, Bear Lake Campsite offers an authentic wilderness escape where time seems to slow down. This rustic hideaway perches gracefully above a pristine 21-acre lake, where hardwood forests and towering pines create a natural cathedral of tranquility. Here, adventurous souls can cast a line for brook trout, take refreshing dips in crystal-clear waters, or wander through sun-dappled trails in search of wild berries. It's the kind of remote sanctuary where the loudest sounds are birdsong and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.
Bear Lake Campsite is a single, primitive camping site suitable for tents or small setups. The focus is on seclusion and immersion in nature.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Bear Lake with its own distinct palette. Winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, dusted with light snow and crystalline frost. As spring awakens the forest, mixed precipitation nurtures new growth while temperatures begin their gentle climb. Summer arrives as the campsite's crown jewel, bringing moderate temperatures and low humidity that create perfect conditions for lakeside adventures. Autumn wraps the hardwoods in brilliant colors, though cooler temperatures and occasional showers remind visitors to pack layers for their wilderness retreat.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your hillside vantage point, Bear Lake stretches out like a mirror reflecting the sky, framed by a tapestry of paper birch, aspen, and oak that rustle secrets in the breeze. This carefully protected ecosystem maintains its pristine character through a carry-in boat launch policy, ensuring the lake's thriving brook trout population continues to delight anglers year after year. The interplay of sunlight through the mixed canopy creates an ever-changing mosaic of light and shadow, while the surrounding forest offers endless opportunities for wildlife watching and nature photography.
Geological RegionBear Lake Campsite showcases the diverse beauty of the Hiawatha National Forest ecosystem, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rolling hills and pristine inland lakes. This 21-acre jewel sits cradled within a mixed forest environment where hardy northern hardwoods—paper birch, aspen, and oak—share the stage with stately pines. The region's unique geology has created the perfect basin for Bear Lake, while the surrounding forest floor tells the story of centuries of natural succession and regeneration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not have designated accessibility features, and the terrain may be challenging due to the uneven, rugged roads leading to the site.
Sites SizeThe campsite is spacious, as described by a user: 'Very large sandy site.'
Sites PrivacyThe site is secluded and private, with users describing it as a 'quiet' and 'isolated' spot. However, some mention occasional ORV traffic on nearby trails.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews highlight challenges and benefits. Select this site for seclusion and rustic camping but avoid it if proper road access for your vehicle is a priority. Bring adequate supplies and prepare for self-sufficiency.
Best CampsitesThere is only one campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site: 8.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne large sandy site with a fire ring featuring a flip-top grill. The site is spacious and offers privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 15, 2025 - October 09, 2025
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via the website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability is not directly provided; the site is noted as reservable.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee applies for changes or cancellations. Late cancellations (1 calendar day before check-in) forfeit the first night's recreation fee. No-shows are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Lake Campsite is ideal for those seeking a primitive outdoor experience with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and wildlife observation. A carry-in boat launch for the lake is available, making it accessible for small watercraft.
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails are accessible within minutes of the campsite, though specific trail details are not provided. The surrounding Hiawatha National Forest offers numerous trails for exploration.Fishing
Bear Lake offers an excellent brook trout fishery that is maintained through annual stocking. However, reviews present mixed opinions about the fishing experience, with one user stating 'poor fishing.' A Michigan fishing license is required.Swimming
Swimming conditions are described as 'marginal,' with a thin layer of sand covering a mucky bottom.Biking
Bike trails are located within a short distance of the site. Specific details about trail difficulty or terrain are not mentioned.Boating
The site includes a carry-in boat launch and has limited water access. The focus is on small watercraft, as overfishing prevention measures are in place.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife encounters are common. One reviewer noted seeing '9-10 baby turtles casually walk by our tent.'Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campsite may be significantly less accessible during winter due to road conditions.Water Sports
Limited to small non-motorized boating and fishing activities on Bear Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood must be sourced locally and must be dead and down. No mention of specific fire restrictions.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews and details suggest potential hazards including challenging roads described as "not meant for cars without 4x4's," and wildlife presence such as turtles.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.2 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
Emergency services can be accessed at Rapid River, MI, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 09, 2025
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out policy applies. Visitors must take all trash and recycling with them when they leave the site.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on Bear Lake, a 21-acre inland lake suitable for fishing and limited swimming.
Common complaintsComplaints include poor road conditions requiring slow and careful navigation, human waste and trash left by previous occupants, and limited lake access.
Campground Map
8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cooks (about 12 miles west of Manistique or 24 miles east of Rapid River on US-2): drive north 4.4 miles on County Road 442 to CR 437. Turn left (north) on CR 437 and drive 8.7 miles to FR 2217. Turn left (northwest) on FR 2217 and drive 2.4 miles to FR 2696. Turn left (south) on 2696 and drive 0.5 mile to the campsite.
The road is described as challenging, with user reviews mentioning that "the road going in and out is not meant for cars without 4x4's" and "be prepared for a slow bumpy ride into the campsite, the road is absolutely terrible." It consists of large rocks without gravel, requiring slow navigation and causing vehicle disturbance.Nearby places
Manistique (12 miles west), Rapid River (24 miles east)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gasoline, fishing and camping supplies, ice, and deli are available five miles northeast on County Road 437 in the Thunder Lake Area.
Camper Reviews
3.8
10 reviews
Bear Lake Campsite has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarized, highlighting both the serene and private nature of the campsite and significant issues such as poor road conditions and cleanliness due to prior visitors. Generally, the site is praised for its rustic appeal and isolation.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the campsite for its seclusion, spaciousness, and natural beauty. Comments include: 'Very quiet,' 'large sandy site,' and 'no other people near the site or on the lake.'
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include poor road conditions ('the road is absolutely terrible'), lack of cleanliness due to human waste and trash, and limited accessibility for non-4x4 vehicles.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including drinking water, and caution about the road conditions. One user suggested, 'Be prepared for a slow bumpy ride into the campsite.'
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer: Mostly positive reviews for its seclusion, though the road conditions are noted as a challenge. Winter: Accessibility likely hindered due to dirt roads.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'My favorite campsite by far that is located in the Hiawatha State Park.' 2. 'The road going in and out is not meant for cars without 4x4's.' 3. 'Saw 9-10 baby turtles casually walk by our tent.'...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is the only available site. Positive remarks include its spaciousness and quietness. Negative reports highlight cleanliness issues and road access problems.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific feedback on accessibility for those with disabilities. However, rough roads and lack of amenities make it less suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and no specific issues or highlights were mentioned regarding pet-related experiences.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025