Council Lake Campsites
3.6524 reviews400 E. Munising Ave., Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Council 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
The nightly rate for standard non-electric campsites during the peak season (May 15–October 9, 2025) is $8. This fee does not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness of Council Lake Campsites, where the rhythm of modern life fades into the gentle lapping of pristine waters against the shore. Nestled in Michigan's storied Upper Peninsula, these rustic sites invite adventurers to disconnect completely—no electricity hums through the trees, no taps offer running water. Instead, you'll find something far more valuable: absolute tranquility beneath towering pines and the kind of profound silence that has become rare in our connected world. This is camping as it was meant to be—raw, authentic, and deeply restorative for those who seek genuine solitude in nature's embrace.
Council Lake Campsites offer primitive camping with limited amenities. Tent and small RV camping are supported, but there are no group or cabin accommodations.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Council Lake remains quietly tucked away in the forest's memory, the land itself tells ancient stories through its unchanged wilderness—a testament to the timeless appeal of Michigan's wild places.
Weather and SeasonsCouncil Lake reveals its many moods through the seasons, from crisp mornings when mist dances across the water to those perfect summer days when gentle breezes ripple the lake's surface. While the Upper Peninsula can surprise with sudden showers that drum melodically on tent flies, most visitors are rewarded with stretches of clear, azure skies and comfortable temperatures that make both hiking and lounging equally appealing. The sweet spot for camping arrives during those magical weeks when moderate winds carry the scent of pine and wildflowers, creating ideal conditions for everything from dawn paddling to evening stargazing.
ElevationThe gentle topography of the Council Lake area creates an accessible wilderness experience, where the landscape rolls softly through ancient forests without demanding steep climbs or challenging descents.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched along the southern shore of crystal-clear Council Lake, your campsite becomes a front-row seat to nature's daily theater. Morning light filters through a cathedral of mixed hardwoods and stately pines, painting dappled shadows on the forest floor where ferns unfurl in the undergrowth. The lake itself mirrors the sky in its glassy surface, occasionally disturbed by the splash of a jumping fish or the silent glide of a kayak exploring hidden coves. A network of waterways connects Council Lake to neighboring gems like Red Jack Lake, creating a paddler's paradise for those eager to explore beyond their campsite. This is a landscape that whispers rather than shouts—a place where serenity isn't just found, it envelops you completely.
Geological RegionThe Hiawatha National Forest cradles Council Lake in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, whose patient work carved out these jewel-like inland lakes thousands of years ago. This corner of Michigan's Upper Peninsula showcases nature's artistry through rolling terrain blanketed in mixed forests where maple, birch, and oak mingle with towering white and red pines. The glacial legacy lives on in the interconnected lake system, where crystal-clear waters fill depressions left by retreating ice, creating a aquatic playground surrounded by the quiet majesty of old-growth forest. It's a geological story written in water and stone, inviting modern explorers to become part of its continuing narrative.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features, and the rustic nature of the campground suggests limited accommodations for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites 1 and 2 are small; Site 3 is adjacent to Site 2 and lacks privacy. Site 4 is the most spacious and private.
Sites Privacy"Site 4 is the BEST. Far away from all the others" – Chris Jellel. Sites 2 and 3 lack vegetation between them, essentially forming a combined site.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, site #4 is recommended; sites #2 and #3 should be reserved together for large groups due to their proximity.
Best CampsitesSite #4 is widely praised as the best for its privacy, proximity to the lake, and access to hiking trails. Quote: "Site 4 is the BEST. Far away from all the others and it’s the easiest access to the lake and the hiking trail."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Any time on the first day of reservation.
Check-out
Before midnight on the end date of reservation.
Stay Limit
14-night limit per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour sites arranged near the southern shore of Council Lake. Site #4 is the most private, while sites #2 and #3 are closely linked.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 15–October 9 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit information regarding walk-up availability is provided, though some user reviews suggest the possibility of unoccupied sites despite showing unavailable online.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled arrival date but require a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellation penalties apply starting midnight 1 calendar day before scheduled check-in. Visitors may forfeit the first night's recreation use fee in case of late cancellation.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Council Lake offers a range of outdoor activities including swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. "There are 4 lakes connected to Council Lake. The fishing was good. Lots of good crappie and some average bass with some small pike" – Chris Jellel.
Hiking
A hiking trail mentioned by Jane C, located at the end of the campsite loop, is recommended for visitors.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catching yellow perch, rock and largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, bullhead, and northern pike. Licenses are required for fishing in Michigan waters.Swimming
Swimming is popular in the clear waters of Council Lake, described as perfect for the activity by Miriam Schwiebert.Boating
"Council Lake is part of a small chain of lakes and offers excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities." Non-motorized boats are permitted, and a portage links Council Lake to Bar Lake and the Indian Wild and Scenic River.Beach activities
Day-use area near a beach is noted as ideal for lounging and swimming.Winter Activities
No winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, with non-motorized boating permitted and lakes interconnected for exploration.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within the designated fire rings. Firewood must be dead and down and sourced locally.
- Quiet hours are Null.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include vast numbers of mosquitoes and black flies during summer months, as noted by user reviews. Quote: "The ONLY issue we had were the inconceivably vast numbers of mosquitoes."
Active alertsNull.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9 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
Closest emergency services are unclear based on the provided data. Null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025–October 9, 2025.
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out policy applies; visitors must carry out their trash. Some reviewers, such as Wes H, reported issues with trash left by previous campers.
Proximity to water featuresLocated within feet of Council Lake, with access to adjoining lakes like Red Jack Lake and Bar Lake via a short portage.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the closeness of sites #2 and #3, which provide little privacy, and issues with site reservation management. Quote: "Sites 2 & 3 have no vegetation between them and are essentially one big site."
HostNo host information is provided.
Campground Map
400 E. Munising Ave., Munising, MI, 49862, USA
Driving directionsFrom Munising, Michigan, take Highway M-28 east towards Shingleton. Turn right (south) on Forest Highway 13 at Wetmore and drive 9.9 miles south to Forest Road 2261. Turn right (west) onto Forest Road 226 and drive 1.7 miles. Continue until the road ends at Council Lake.
The access road is dirt/sand but well-maintained according to user reviews. However, some reviews suggest that vehicles with low ground clearance might struggle under adverse conditions, such as after rain. Quotes: "Our Honda Civic just made it, but if it had rained during our stay, I don't think we would have been able to successfully get down the road without a higher clearance vehicle." and "You most certainly will need a vehicle with four-wheel drive or at the very least a higher ground clearance in order to get into this site."Nearby places
Munising: Approximately 20 minutes by car. Other nearby attractions such as Pictured Rocks are 20-50 minutes away.
Nearby supplies
A general store is 5 minutes away according to user reviews. Quote: "General store is 5 min away."
Camper Reviews
3.7
24 reviews
Council Lake Campsites has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Council Lake Campsites are favored for their seclusion, natural beauty, and affordability. However, concerns about mosquitoes, lack of privacy between some sites, and primitive facilities are common. Reviews frequently recommend site 4 for its privacy and proximity to the lake.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
"Absolutely beautiful little campground, tucked way back in the woods." – Miriam Schwiebert. "Great primitive campsites." – Chris Jellel. "Quiet and beautiful." – Jennifer S.
Based on 24 reviewsCommon Concerns
Mosquitoes and black flies are frequently cited as an issue during warmer months. Privacy concerns between sites 2 and 3 are a recurring theme. Some reviewers reported challenges with the reservation...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Make sure to bring water." – Sylvia Seay. "Bring bug spray." – Timothy M. "Reserve site 4 for the best experience." – Multiple reviewers.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mosquitoes and black flies are particularly bothersome in late spring and early summer. Fall visits are noted for tranquility and fewer insects. Winter activities are not supported.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Site 4 is by far the best: beautiful view of the lake and set far away from the rest of the campsite loop." – Miriam Schwiebert. "Fishing was good. Lots of good crappie and some average bass." –...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 4 is consistently praised for privacy and proximity to the lake. "Site 1 is tiny and near the bathroom. Sites 2 & 3 have no vegetation between them and are essentially one big site." – Miriam...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features; the rustic nature suggests limited options for campers with disabilities.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences, leaving this field as null.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025