Lake Nineteen Campsite
04 reviews8181 US HWY 2, RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
Lake Nineteen 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 a tent-only nonelectric site is $8. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away on the eastern shore of a pristine 26-acre trout lake, Lake Nineteen Campsite beckons those who crave authentic wilderness experiences. This semi-primitive retreat within the Hiawatha National Forest delivers exactly what solitude-seekers dream of: rustic charm without the crowds, crystal-clear waters teeming with trout, and the kind of profound quiet that only comes from being truly removed from civilization. Here, your closest neighbors are the whispering pines and the occasional splash of a jumping fish.
Lake Nineteen Campsite is a rustic, primitive site designed for tent camping. It is the only designated campsite on the eastern shore of Lake Nineteen. The site is best suited for campers seeking a secluded and semi-primitive experience.
Historical SignificanceAs a cherished component of the Ironjaw Semi-Primitive Area, Lake Nineteen represents a careful balance between preservation and recreation. This thoughtfully managed landscape welcomes both those who prefer to explore on foot and those who utilize motorized access, all while maintaining the wild character that makes this corner of Michigan's Upper Peninsula so special. The area stands as a testament to conservation efforts that ensure future generations can experience the same unspoiled beauty.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early fall, Lake Nineteen transforms into a camper's paradise, with pleasantly moderate temperatures and refreshingly low humidity creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Summer days invite long hours of fishing and exploring, while crisp autumn mornings paint the surrounding hardwoods in brilliant golds and reds. When winter arrives, the landscape shifts dramatically as heavy snowfall blankets the forest in pristine white, making this a fair-weather destination best enjoyed between May and September when nature shows its gentler side.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain nature's secret, the gently rolling terrain creates an intimate forest setting that feels both accessible and wonderfully secluded from the outside world.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a canopy of mature hardwoods and towering pines, their branches creating nature's own cathedral above your tent. The campsite's position within the Ironjaw Semi-Primitive Area means you're surrounded by acres of unspoiled forest where wild berries grow in secret patches waiting to be discovered. Lake Nineteen itself serves as the crown jewel, its calm waters reflecting the sky by day and stars by night, while the surrounding wilderness offers endless opportunities for those who find joy in the simple pleasure of wandering forest paths.
Geological RegionDeep within the Ironjaw Semi-Primitive Area, Lake Nineteen occupies a special pocket of Michigan's northern forests where ancient hardwoods mingle with evergreen pines. This rustic forest environment, dotted with small inland lakes, showcases the region's glacial heritage through its gently sculpted landscape. The interplay of water and woodland creates diverse ecosystems that support everything from towering trees to delicate wildflowers, making every visit a lesson in nature's intricate design.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campsite can only be accessed via boat, foot, or horseback, which makes it less accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. There are no specific accessibility features mentioned.
Sites SizeThe site accommodates a maximum of 8 people. Only one campsite is available.
Sites PrivacyThe campsite is located in a serene, semi-primitive setting, offering significant seclusion and privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose this site for its secluded and peaceful setting. Plan carefully for water and toilet needs as none are provided.
Best CampsitesThe single campsite, located on the eastern shore of Lake Nineteen, is known for its quiet ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-day stay limit during any single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle dispersed campsite located on the eastern shore of Lake Nineteen.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 15 - October 9, with reservable dates starting June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov either online or through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up/first-come-first-served availability for this site.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night’s use fee for late cancellations. Changes within the same reservation cost don’t incur fees but switching dates completely outside of the original reservation dates will incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
The Lake Nineteen Campsite offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and berry picking. However, the swimming area is noted to be in poor condition.
Hiking
The campsite is located approximately 2.5 miles from the Pine Marten Run Middle Trailhead, and hiking trails are accessible from this area. However, users have reported challenges with trail maintenance, and some trails are noted to be in disrepair.Fishing
Fishing is available at Lake Nineteen, which has been stocked with rainbow trout. However, recent user reviews mention that the lake primarily contains panfish and no longer maintains its former reputation for trout fishing.Swimming
While swimming is an option, the swimming area is described as being in poor condition.Boating
Boating access is available, but the boat launch is steep, and trailers must be backed down to the lake. There is no turn-around area at the base of the hill.Winter Activities
No winter recreational activities are mentioned for the Lake Nineteen Campsite.Water Sports
The lake provides opportunities for non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing, though no further details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed only with locally collected firewood that is dead and down. Firewood from outside the area is prohibited.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsNo toilets or drinking water available. The swimming area is noted to be in poor condition. Steep boat access requires caution; parking is limited.
Active alertsUser reviews mention difficulty finding the site due to poorly maintained trails and signage.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.8 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 9, 2025.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to follow a pack-in, pack-out policy, as there are no trash or recycling facilities available.
Proximity to water featuresLake Nineteen (26-acre lake) is immediately adjacent to the campsite and offers fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews highlight issues such as inadequate trail access, poor maintenance, lack of stocked trout in the lake, and horse manure on trails hindering hiking.
Host.
Campground Map
8181 US HWY 2, RAPID RIVER/MANISTIQUE RANGER DISTRICT, Rapid River, MI 49878, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River): drive north 18.7 miles on Highway 13 to County Road 440. Turn right (east) on CR 440 and drive 4.6 miles to FR 2733. Turn left (north) and drive 1.3 miles to the parking area.
The road access is firm but steep, especially at the boat access point, which requires trailers to be backed down to the lake. Parking is restricted to a small area at the top of the hill.Nearby places
Rapid River (14 miles, approximately 20-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gasoline, fishing and camping supplies, boat rentals, ice, licenses, deli, and restaurants are available approximately six miles away on Forest Highway 13.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Lake Nineteen Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Nineteen Campsite are highly mixed. Some reviewers appreciate the pristine and secluded nature of the site, while others highlight issues such as inaccessible trails, lack of maintenance, and unfulfilled expectations for fishing activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers who enjoyed their stay noted the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. One reviewer described it as "a beautiful spot in an amazing area."
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
Multiple users expressed frustration with inadequate trail maintenance and difficulty accessing the site. For example, one user wrote, "We spent the whole first night trying to find it and around...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, as none is provided on-site. It's also recommended to confirm trail access and navigation ahead of time to avoid...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal reviews suggest potential usability challenges due to trail conditions. Summers may attract more visitors, and this is when most negative reviews about maintenance were recorded.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We were never able to find the site because the trail that went around was almost nonexistent." "It was a beautiful spot in an amazing area." "The lake has no trout, only panfish."
Based on 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The single site, numbered 001, is the focus of all reviews. Feedback varies, with some emphasizing its beauty and others criticizing its inaccessibility and lack of upkeep.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but the site is generally described as challenging to access.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet-related policies or experiences are found in the reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025