Carr Lake Campsite
3.9410 reviewsRAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
Carr 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 rate for standard nonelectric sites during peak season (May 15 - October 9) is $8. This fee does not include taxes, discounts, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness of Carr Lake, where rustic camping meets authentic outdoor adventure in Michigan's Hiawatha National Forest. This spacious 70ft x 40ft grassy clearing welcomes up to two families seeking a true back-to-basics experience. Without modern amenities like running water or facilities, Carr Lake offers the rare opportunity to disconnect completely and immerse yourself in nature's raw beauty. Here, the only sounds you'll hear are the gentle lapping of lake waters and the whisper of wind through towering pines.
The Carr Lake Campsite is a single, primitive, non-electric campsite offering a basic, rustic camping experience. It is suitable for tent camping and small group gatherings.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this pristine corner of Hiawatha National Forest remains quietly preserved in the landscape itself, the area represents the enduring legacy of Michigan's protected wilderness areas, safeguarding these ancient forests for future generations to explore and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of Michigan's Upper Peninsula at Carr Lake. Summer brings warm days perfect for fishing and exploring, though savvy campers come prepared for nature's smallest residents – the mosquitoes that thrive in the lush forest environment. As autumn arrives, the hardwoods burst into spectacular color, though nights can turn surprisingly cold, with October temperatures often demanding extra layers and warm sleeping gear. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, while spring awakens the forest with new life and excellent fishing conditions.
ElevationNestled within the gently rolling terrain of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Carr Lake sits at a comfortable elevation that provides the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness immersion, characteristic of the region's inland lake country.
Natural Features and SceneryHidden within a tapestry of majestic hardwoods and whispering pines, this secluded campsite overlooks the pristine 16-acre Carr Lake – a hidden gem that feels like your own private wilderness retreat. The intimate lake teems with life, offering anglers the chance to cast for feisty largemouth bass, abundant yellow perch, and the occasional northern pike. Just beyond camp, Carr Creek winds through the forest, its cool waters harboring native brook trout and brown trout for those willing to explore. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of privacy, where towering trees filter the sunlight and provide shelter for countless woodland creatures.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Hiawatha National Forest, this campsite showcases the Upper Peninsula's distinctive landscape – a harmonious blend of dense hardwood forests, aromatic pine groves, and crystal-clear inland lakes. This rustic environment represents millions of years of geological history, from ancient glacial carvings that formed the small, intimate lakes to the rich soils that support the diverse forest ecosystem. The region's character is defined by its wild, untamed beauty and the enduring presence of old-growth forest remnants that have witnessed centuries of natural history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is not ADA accessible. Limited parking may make accessibility challenging for some campers.
Sites SizeThe campsite is described as fairly roomy, measuring approximately 70 ft. by 40 ft., and is grassy, making it suitable for two families.
Sites PrivacyThe campsite is considered private and secluded. According to the official description, 'The Carr Lake campsite offers privacy and seclusion.' User reviews affirm this, with one reviewer calling it 'quiet, clean, [and] beautiful.'
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations include bringing supplies for rustic camping, avoiding cars without 4x4 capabilities, and expecting zero cell service.
Best CampsitesCarr Lake campsite is the only site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 11:00 AM
Check-out
By 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-day limit per visit during any time of the year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity is 16 people per site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned, though the site can accommodate up to 16 individuals, making it suitable for small groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe site is grassy and measures 70ft x 40ft. It is spacious enough for two families but has limited parking.
Open and Closed SeasonThe site is open for reservations from May 15 to October 9 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability at Carr Lake campsite.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before arrival, but a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur an additional charge equal to the first night's recreation use fee. No-show customers are charged $20 and forfeit the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Carr Lake Campsite provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, berry picking, and boating. However, swimming conditions are considered poor. The lake supports a fishery for largemouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike, and brook or brown trout. Boating is limited to small watercraft, accessed via a constructed boat slide.
Hiking
Nearby attractions include a number of horse, bike, and hiking trails within minutes of the campsite.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Carr Lake, with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike, and brook or brown trout. Access to Carr Creek also provides additional fisheries for trout. A license is required for fishing.Swimming
Swimming is allowed, but conditions are described as poor. No details about swimming infrastructure or facilities are provided.Biking
Biking trails are available within minutes of the site, but specific details about terrain and difficulty are not provided.Boating
Small watercraft can be launched via a boat slide. The lake is accessible for non-motorized boating activities.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the site is open until October, when conditions may become colder.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are likely, given the lake access, though they are not explicitly listed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed using dead and downed firewood collected near the site. Firewood from outside the area is prohibited to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are No explicit mention of scheduled quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito activity is high in summer. Poor swimming conditions are noted, and cell service is non-existent.
Active alertsNo active alerts or closures are mentioned.
Weather forecast
50
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 contact numbers are provided: (906) 474-6442 for local information and (906) 387-2512 for general information. No explicit mention of nearby hospitals or other emergency facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 9
Trash and recyclingCampers are responsible for their own trash and recycling under the pack-in, pack-out policy. There are no dedicated trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe site is directly on Carr Lake, with upstream and downstream access to Carr Creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as ATV traffic, trash in surrounding woods, and unmarked gravel roads leading to difficulty in navigation.
HostNo campsite host details are provided.
Campground Map
RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 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 2.5 miles to the road to Carr Lake. Turn right (north) and drive 0.25 mile to the campsite.
The road to Carr Lake campsite is challenging for standard cars without 4x4 capabilities, as noted in user reviews indicating that trucks and ATVs are more suited. Gravel roads are unmarked once inside the forest. Seasonal closure or adverse conditions are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Cooks (approximately 12 miles west of Manistique and 24 miles east of Rapid River).
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
3.9
10 reviews
Carr Lake Campsite has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Carr Lake Campsite receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback emphasizes its solitude, natural beauty, and spaciousness. Negative feedback highlights issues with unregulated ATV traffic, difficulty finding the site, and occasional trash problems.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the seclusion and tranquility of the site: 'My favorite campsite by far,' wrote Jay, who valued the isolation and rustic feel. 'Quiet, clean, beautiful,' noted Ann W., who also...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include unregulated ATV traffic and trash. Edward G. criticized the site: 'Constant ATV traffic... ATVs should be restricted to ATV trails.' Another complaint came from Dan L., who...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend using 4x4 vehicles due to difficult road conditions. Jamie Sutton noted, 'The road going in and out is not meant for cars without 4x4's.' Other tips include preparing for zero cell...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer receives the most positive reviews due to warm weather and abundant outdoor activities. Fall can bring colder temperatures, as noted by Michael L., who said sleeping conditions were 'cold as...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Rustic camping for sure with absolutely no amenities. Once stayed for 9 days and never saw a person.' – Jay
2. 'Quiet, clean, beautiful campsite overlooking small lake.' – Ann W.
3. 'I could not...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is the only available campsite at Carr Lake. It is described as 'spacious and quiet' by Jamie Sutton, though Edward G. noted issues with occasional trash and ATV intrusions.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility, though the challenging road conditions and lack of facilities suggest limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pets.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025