East Lake Campsites
3.7320 reviewsRAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
East 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 fee for Standard Nonelectric sites during peak season (May 15 - October 9) is $8; additional reservation fees may apply depending on the booking method.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil shores of East Lake, where rustic campsites beckon those seeking an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of Hiawatha National Forest. Here, beneath towering hardwoods and whispering pines, you'll discover a back-to-basics camping adventure where the absence of modern amenities is precisely the point. This pristine 53-acre lake invites you to cast a line at dawn, take refreshing afternoon swims, or paddle across mirror-still waters as the sun sets behind the forest canopy. Without drinking water or electricity, East Lake Campsites promise something increasingly rare: a chance to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature's simple rhythms.
East Lake Campsites provides primitive, tent, and RV camping options. It is suitable for dispersed camping with minimal facilities.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints East Lake with its own distinct palette. Summer brings warm, languid days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons by the water—though be prepared to share the space with enthusiastic mosquitoes during peak months. Spring awakens the forest with cool, crisp air and budding greenery, while autumn transforms the hardwoods into a spectacular display of golds and crimsons. Winter blankets the landscape in snow and ice, creating a serene wonderland for those hardy enough to embrace the freezing temperatures and pristine solitude.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the haunting call of a loon echoing across misty waters, or catching sight of a majestic bald eagle soaring overhead—regular visitors to these protected shores. The campsites are thoughtfully tucked among a diverse tapestry of hardwood and pine forest, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy and wildlife thrives undisturbed. From your tent, you might spot deer picking their way to the water's edge at dusk, while the wooded hills surrounding the lake create an intimate, secluded atmosphere. The open lakefront offers stunning views across the water, where morning mists rise like ancient spirits and evening brings a symphony of forest sounds.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Hiawatha National Forest, East Lake represents a pristine pocket of Michigan's Upper Peninsula wilderness. This 53-acre jewel sits cradled by rolling hills clothed in a rich mixture of hardwood and pine forests, creating a diverse ecosystem that has remained largely unchanged for generations. The lake itself serves as a natural centerpiece, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest and sky in an ever-changing canvas of color and light.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned. The steep and winding access roads to some sites may pose challenges for individuals with mobility concerns.
Sites SizeSite 1: 100 ft x 75 ft; Site 2: 45 ft x 35 ft; Site 3: 55 ft x 50 ft.
Sites Privacy"Sites are all separated and have lake access." The wooded locations provide some privacy, but the site layout and proximity to features like the boat launch may affect seclusion.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is ideal for larger groups (up to 24 people) and offers hilltop views. Site 2 accommodates small trailers; Site 3 is recommended for tents due to difficult access roads.
Best CampsitesSite 3 is highly rated for its excellent swimming and open lakefront access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in details are unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out details are unspecified.
Stay Limit
- Pack-In, Pack-Out policy
- maximum 14 consecutive nights during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Site 1 (maximum 24 guests), Sites 2 and 3 (maximum 8 guests each).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three dispersed sites spread around the 53-acre East Lake. Site 1 is on the western shore, Site 2 on the northeast, and Site 3 extends into the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: May 15, 2025; Closed: October 9, 2025
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on first-come-first-served basis in addition to reservations, but this is not explicitly detailed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and applicable late cancellation penalties. Late cancellations (after midnight 1 day before check-in) incur additional fees such as forfeiture of the first night’s recreation fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
East Lake Campsites provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Hiking and berry picking are also available.
Hiking
Numerous horse, bike, and hiking trails are located within minutes of the campsite.Fishing
Fishing is available for largemouth bass, perch, bluegill, and bullheads. "Fishing is pretty good," according to one reviewer, and "fun panfishing and small bass" were reported by another.Swimming
Swimming is highly recommended at Site 3, described as "excellent." However, it is "not recommended at sites 1 and 2."Biking
Biking trails are available within close proximity to the campground.Boating
Boat access is "unimproved, shallow, and sandy." Carry-in access is recommended. The boat access point is located just past Site 1.Wildlife viewing
"We've seen a pair of bald eagles almost every time we have come," noted one reviewer. Birds and other wildlife are commonly observed.Winter Activities
No specific information about winter activities is provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like kayaking and canoeing are mentioned in nearby attractions.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed using dead and down wood collected near the site. External firewood is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are extremely prevalent during certain seasons, and unpaved roads may pose difficulties for access. Wildlife such as bears may be present.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.7 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 are available in Rapid River, MI, including police and hospitals.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - October 9, 2025
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out policy applies. Campers are required to take all trash and recycling with them when departing the site.
Proximity to water featuresAll sites are located adjacent to East Lake, providing direct lake access. Site 3 offers a private beach and excellent swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations, generator noise from nearby private property, and difficulties navigating unmarked access roads are recurring issues mentioned in reviews.
Campground Map
RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, 8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
Driving directionsFrom Manistique, MI: drive north on M-94 22.5 miles to the intersection with CR 437. Turn right at the big parking lot opposite CR 437. To get to site 1: take the immediate right on FR 2723, drive 0.7 mi to FR 2650. Turn left (east) on FR 2650 and drive 0.2 mi to site 1. To get to sites 2 and 3: proceed directly through the parking lot on FR 2247 and drive about 1 mile to FR 2247A. Turn right (south) on FR 2247A and drive less than a mile to the campsites.
Road access is challenging for sites 2 and 3 due to narrow, winding unpaved logging roads. Site 1 is accessible via FR 2650 but experiences traffic interruptions from the nearby boat launch.Nearby places
Manistique (22.5 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Steuben (2 miles, approximately 5-10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies including bait shops, gas stations, grocery stores, and camping equipment are available in Steuben, approximately 2 miles away on County Road 437.
Camper Reviews
3.7
20 reviews
East Lake Campsites has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground receives mixed reviews. Many campers appreciate its serenity, seclusion, and natural beauty. Several negative experiences highlight navigation challenges, bugs, and noisy neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful tiny secluded lake," "quiet and peaceful," "only 3 sites and 1 private house on a small private lake." Wildlife spottings such as bald eagles and seclusion were frequently praised.
Based on 20 reviewsCommon Concerns
Navigation challenges: "VERY hard to find... Follow the blue tags and one Bud Light can to find Site 3." Bugs and mosquitoes: "The bugs were relentless and honestly the worst I have ever...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Check the local 'weather' reports before booking" to avoid mosquito season. "Carry bug spray and lotion," and "use a high-clearance vehicle for site access."
Based on 20 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During summer, bugs are a severe issue. Spring and fall are better for enjoying the seclusion and natural beauty.
Based on 20 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We had our own little private beach and there was a new fire pit ring with a grate." "Woke up in the morning with ACTUALLY 40-50 mosquitoes perched on the outside of the tent." "The site is nice,...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1: "Lots of random traffic thru site #1 to get to the boat launch." Site 3: "Swimming at Site 3 is excellent." Also noted for difficult navigation and high levels of bugs.
Based on 20 reviewsAccessibility Features
The steep and narrow access roads to Sites 2 and 3 may make it difficult for individuals with physical disabilities to access these sites.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews directly mention pets, but pets are permitted at the campground.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025