Clear Lake Campsite
4.3112 reviewsRAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Clear Lake Campsite
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Camping at Clear Lake Campsite is free of charge during the listed season (May 15 to October 9, 2025). Reservation fees may apply ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in person).
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil shores of Clear Lake Campsite, where a single rustic site awaits adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in Michigan's Hiawatha National Forest. This off-the-grid haven invites you to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's simple pleasures. While you won't find running water or restroom facilities here, you'll discover something far more valuable: the rare peace that comes from camping in untouched wilderness, where the only sounds are rustling leaves and gentle waves lapping against the shore.
Clear Lake Campsite is a primitive, single-site camping area designed for self-sufficient campers. It is suitable for tent camping and RVs but lacks group or luxury camping options.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the vibrant awakening of late spring through the golden days of early fall, Clear Lake reveals its most welcoming face to campers. These months bring comfortable temperatures perfect for lakeside lounging and forest exploration. As autumn fades, winter transforms the landscape into a quiet wonderland, where high clouds drift overhead and gentle snowfall blankets the forest floor. The changing seasons paint the campsite in ever-shifting palettes, each offering its own unique camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself awakening beneath a canopy of majestic hardwoods and towering pines, their branches creating a natural cathedral above your campsite. The spacious 50 by 30-foot site opens onto stunning views of Clear Lake's 109-acre expanse, where morning mist dances across the water and sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues. Forest trails beckon from your doorstep, winding through the serene woodland landscape that defines this corner of the Hiawatha. With room for trailers and space to accommodate two families comfortably, this site offers the perfect balance of wilderness immersion and practical camping comfort.
Geological RegionClear Lake emerges like a hidden gem within the Hiawatha National Forest's vast ecological tapestry. This pristine inland lake represents the forest's characteristic beauty—a harmonious blend of diverse hardwood groves, stately pine stands, and crystal-clear waters that have remained largely unchanged for generations. As part of this protected ecological treasure, Clear Lake showcases the quiet majesty of Michigan's northern forests, where nature's rhythms continue undisturbed and every sunrise brings new discoveries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. The rugged nature of the site may make it challenging for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeThe site measures 50 feet by 30 feet and can accommodate up to 2 families and trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe site is located in an open area, which may limit privacy. However, it is the only campsite in the area, providing seclusion from other campers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring boots for muddy areas near the boat launch. Carry portable toilets due to lack of facilities. Hornet traps recommended for pest management.
Best CampsitesThe campsite is uniquely private and scenic, described by visitors as peaceful and secluded.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-night maximum stay during each visit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 people per site
Groups
This campsite does not offer group camping facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle dispersed campsite located on Clear Lake's eastern shore. Open layout measuring 50 ft x 30 ft.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between May 15, 2025, and October 9, 2025. Reservations are available starting June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov (online or app) or by contacting the call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFree campsite available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations recommended for peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (within 1 calendar day before check-in) forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Some cancellations may also carry penalties or forfeiture of fees depending on the timing.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
Clear Lake Campsite offers a variety of natural recreational activities in a quiet and remote setting. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. However, the lack of some facilities like restrooms and potable water requires careful preparation by campers. Swimming at the site is not recommended, but nearby biking and hiking trails offer alternatives for exploration.
Hiking
There are hiking trails within minutes of the campsite, offering opportunities to explore the surrounding forest. Specific trail details (length, difficulty) are not provided.Fishing
Clear Lake is known for its excellent fishery, featuring species like yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and occasionally splake. Michigan fishing licenses are required.Swimming
While swimming is technically possible, it is not recommended at this site. Some users commented on the lake's sandy areas but noted that the space between the campsite and boat launch can be muddy.Biking
There are biking trails located within a short drive of the campground, but no specific details on trail features are mentioned.Boating
A back-in boat launch is available adjacent to the campsite, providing direct access to Clear Lake for boating and fishing. However, campers should expect public use of the launch, which may lead to occasional disturbances.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound in the surrounding hardwood and pine forest. No specific species are listed, but the natural setting is ideal for birdwatching and observing local fauna.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned for this campsite.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are possible on Clear Lake, with the boat launch facilitating access to the water.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted using wood from dead and down trees. Importing firewood is strictly prohibited to protect local ecosystems.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include hornets, as reported by user reviews. Limited cell service may be a safety concern for some visitors.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.8 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
Closest emergency services can be accessed in Rapid River, MI. Contact phone: (906) 474-6442 or (906) 387-2512.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 9, 2025
Trash and recyclingCampers must adhere to a pack-in/pack-out policy as there are no trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campsite is adjacent to Clear Lake, measuring 109 acres in size. Fishing and kayaking are popular activities. The area between the campsite and boat launch can be wet and muddy.
Common complaintsSome reviewers expressed concerns over public use of the adjacent boat launch causing vehicle traffic and occasional infringement on privacy.
Campground Map
RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Driving directionsFrom M-28 in Shingleton: Head South on M-94 for 11 miles to Clear Lake Road (Forest Road 2246). Turn left and follow for 3 miles to FR 2246J (on the left). From US HWY 2 in Manistique: Head North on M-94 for 24 miles to Clear Lake Road (Forest Road 2246). Turn left and follow for 3 miles to FR 2246J (on the left).
The campsite is accessible via Forest Road 2246. It is necessary to carefully follow the reservation document instructions, as Google Maps does not always correctly guide to the exact location. The last stretch of the road includes FR 2246J.Nearby places
Shingleton: 11 miles south (approx. 15 minutes)
Manistique: 24 miles north (approx. 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Within over a mile radius, visitors can find bait shops, general and grocery stores, gas stations, pay phones, trailheads, a fishing pier, biking paths, and kayak/canoe rentals.
Camper Reviews
4.3
12 reviews
Clear Lake Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with some praising the site's natural beauty, privacy, and activities like fishing and kayaking, while others express concerns about public boat launch usage and the lack of facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the natural setting, serene environment, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. One reviewer noted, 'The sunset is seriously just the best here,' while another highlighted the...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns include the lack of toilets, limited cell service, frequent public use of the boat launch, and issues with human waste around the site. One reviewer stated, 'Walk away from the...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessities, including potable water and portable toilets, as no facilities are provided. Setting up hornet traps and wearing boots for muddy areas were also advised.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campsite is particularly praised during late summer and early fall for clear weather and fewer bugs. However, hornets and muddy conditions were noted during certain weeks in the summer.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Peaceful and secluded' (Christina S.)
- 'Private lake and site' (Thomas Y.)
- 'Very little service at Clear Lake. However we were ok with it and occupied ourselves kayaking, fishing, hiking...'...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The single campsite (001) is often described as private and scenic but impacted by the boat launch's public use. Reviewers frequently highlight both the site's seclusion and its exposure to public...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available. However, the rugged nature of the site and lack of amenities may make it less accommodating for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or pet-related experiences are available.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025