Cookson Lake Campsites
3.9610 reviews400 E. MUNISING AVE., Munising, MI 49862, USA
Cookson Lake Campsites
$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
Recreation use fee is $8 per night during the peak season (May 15 - October 9). Reservation fees ($8 for online/app, $9 through contact center, $3 in-person) apply.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil embrace of Cookson Lake Campsites, where five primitive sites nestle among towering trees in Michigan's untamed wilderness. This rustic forest retreat offers the perfect blend of solitude and natural beauty, with each campsite equipped with a sturdy table and campfire ring for evening gatherings under starlit skies. While you'll need to bring your own water, a convenient pit toilet serves all sites. The crown jewel of your stay awaits just steps away—the pristine 35-acre Cookson Lake, where anglers cast for their dinner and paddlers glide across mirror-smooth waters dotted with two enchanting islands.
Cookson Lake Campsites provide primitive camping options for tent and RV campers. The sites are not equipped with electrical, water, or sewer hookups, but they offer fire rings and picnic tables. Group camping is possible, with specific sites accommodating up to 16 people.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure places you at the crossroads of natural and cultural heritage. Just beyond your campsite, the legendary Indian Wild and Scenic River winds through ancient forests, carrying stories of the Indigenous peoples who first called this land home. The nearby Big Island Lake Wilderness Area stands as a testament to conservation efforts, preserving one of the last untouched ecosystems in the region. These protected lands offer more than recreation—they provide a living connection to Michigan's rich ecological and cultural tapestry.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasons of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where crisp winters give way to glorious camping weather from late spring through early fall. Summer brings comfortable temperatures perfect for lakeside adventures, while gentle rains occasionally sweep through to refresh the forest and fill the air with the earthy scent of pine and hardwood. Plan your visit between May and October to enjoy the most favorable conditions, when wildflowers carpet the forest floor and warm days melt into cool, campfire-perfect evenings.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation typical of Michigan's Upper Peninsula landscape, where gentle rolling terrain meets pristine inland lakes.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape painted with nature's finest brushstrokes. Graceful aspens dance in the breeze alongside sturdy northern hardwoods, creating a canopy that filters sunlight into golden patches on the forest floor. During warmer months, delicate wildflowers add splashes of color to the understory, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. From various vantage points around camp, catch glimpses of Cookson Lake's sapphire waters and its two mysterious islands—perfect subjects for photography or quiet contemplation. The ever-changing forest offers new discoveries with each season, from spring's tender green shoots to autumn's spectacular color display.
Geological RegionDiscover the wild heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula within the vast Hiawatha National Forest, a 900,000-acre wonderland of ecological diversity. This remarkable landscape weaves together dense hardwood forests where maple and oak reign supreme, aromatic pine stands that whisper in the wind, and crystal-clear inland lakes carved by ancient glaciers. The unique geology of the region creates ideal conditions for the mixed forest ecosystem, where northern and temperate species converge to form one of the most biodiverse regions in the Great Lakes area.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly provided or mentioned.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with larger sites accommodating up to 16 people (Sites 2-5) and smaller sites like Site 1 accommodating up to 8 people.
Sites PrivacySites are generally open and located in a large field near the southern shore of Cookson Lake. Privacy may be minimal due to the open setting.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring bug spray and plan for layers to mitigate mosquitoes. Campers seeking fishing opportunities may prefer sites near the boat ramp.
Best CampsitesReviews highlight Campsite 1 and Campsite 3 as particularly scenic and larger than expected.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
14-day limit during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity varies by site: Site 1 allows up to 8 people, Sites 2-5 allow up to 16 people.
Groups
Maximum capacity for group sites is 16 people (Sites 2-5) and 8 people for Site 1.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of five dispersed campsites surrounding an open field on Cookson Lake’s south shore.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 - October 9. Reservations begin June 20.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov or mobile app; contact center; in-person reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific walk-up availability is mentioned, but booking is through Recreation.gov with reservation fees.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations may also incur a $10 change fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing at Cookson Lake Campsites. The lake offers opportunities to catch largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, and bullhead. The surrounding area is ideal for nature exploration, and public boat access is available. However, mosquitoes are reported to be a significant nuisance during warmer months.
Fishing
Fishing is popular in Cookson Lake, which hosts largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, and bullhead. "Good fishing in the lake had a great time," according to user Travis P. A public boat ramp adjacent to Site 2 provides easy access to the lake.Swimming
Visitors enjoy swimming in Cookson Lake. However, user Harrison T noted they opted for nearby Pete's Lake for swimming.Boating
Public boat access is available adjacent to Site 2. The lake is accessible via back-in boat ramps.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as loons, swans, and snapping turtles can be observed. User Elizabeth D observed "mother and baby loons and two swans."Winter Activities
No winter recreational activities such as skiing or snowshoeing are described.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are possible due to the primitive nature of the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted with locally collected dead and downed wood. Moving firewood from outside the area is prohibited to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are frequently mentioned in reviews as a major issue. Wildlife such as snapping turtles may be present in the lake.
Active alertsPotential bridge closures near Indian River may affect access routes. No other specific alerts currently.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.5 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 available in Munising (approximately 22 miles away), including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 9.
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out policy is enforced. Trash and recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCookson Lake is within direct proximity, featuring a 35-acre lake with two islands.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations are a recurring concern. Reviews also mention the pit toilet being poorly maintained.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
400 E. MUNISING AVE., Munising, MI 49862, USA
Driving directionsFrom Munising, Michigan: Drive east on M-28 towards Wetmore. Turn right (south) on Forest Highway 13 at Wetmore and drive 11.9 miles to FR 2258. Turn left (southeast) and drive about 2.5 miles to FR 2257 (just before the bridge over the Indian River). Turn left (northeast) on FR 2257 and drive 1.8 miles across the access road.
Road access involves Forest Highway 13 and several forest roads (FR 2258 and FR 2257). Some reviews mention closures on nearby bridges that could affect route accessibility.Nearby places
Munising: Approximately 22 miles away
Steuben area (5 miles east) for groceries, gas, and camping supplies.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, ice, gasoline, fishing, camping supplies, ice, and deli are available approximately 5 miles east on County Road 437 in the Steuben Area.
Camper Reviews
4.0
10 reviews
Cookson Lake Campsites has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty, serenity, and remote appeal of Cookson Lake Campsites, but also note significant drawbacks such as the abundance of mosquitoes and the poor condition of the pit toilet. Fishing and wildlife viewing are well-received.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include well-maintained campsites, beautiful lake views, good fishing, and quiet surroundings. User Kevin K stated, "Beautiful Lake and clean campsites. Would definitely go back."
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include relentless mosquitoes, poor pit toilet conditions, lack of cell service, and the difficulty of reaching the campsite due to road closures.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing bug spray and layers for mosquito protection, packing sufficient drinking water, and preparing for no wireless service. User Harrison T advised, "Lots of bug spray...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months see high mosquito activity and warmer weather conditions, which may detract from the experience. Fall appears to be quieter with fewer insect issues, making it an ideal time to visit.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Literally the most bugs I have ever seen/experienced" - Erika D. "Overall great lake to relax by and quiet" - Elizabeth D. "No wireless service like 0 lol" - Travis P.
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention Site 1 as heavily affected by mosquitoes (Erika D) and Site 3 as spacious and featuring wildlife like loons and swans (Elizabeth D).
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews are not provided.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025