Lyman Lake Campsites
3.6627 reviews8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Lyman 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
Facility rate for Standard Nonelectric sites during Peak Season (May 15 – October 9) is $8/night. Additional fees may apply for reservation services ($8 online, $9 through contact center, $3 in person).
About this campground
Discover your own piece of wilderness paradise at Lyman Lake Campsites, where 10 secluded sites dot the pristine shoreline of this hidden gem in the Hiawatha National Forest. Here, the gentle lapping of lake waters against the shore becomes your morning alarm, and the only neighbors you'll encounter are the occasional deer stepping through the hardwood forest. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, taking a refreshing swim on a warm afternoon, or paddling across the glassy surface at sunset, this rustic retreat offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity.
Lyman Lake Campsites are primarily designed for primitive camping, offering dispersed sites with minimal amenities. Some sites can accommodate trailers, but conditions vary.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Lyman Lake into an aquatic playground, with warm temperatures beckoning swimmers to its refreshing waters and creating perfect conditions for anglers seeking their next catch. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hardwoods burst into a spectacular display of reds and golds, offering breathtaking views across the lake. Winter brings a hushed tranquility to the forest, though heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures make this primarily a fair-weather destination. Spring awakens the campground with wildflowers and the return of migrating birds, making each season a unique chapter in the Lyman Lake story.
ElevationNestled within the rolling landscape of the Hiawatha National Forest, the campground rests at a comfortable elevation that creates the perfect microclimate for both hardwood and pine forests to thrive together, offering campers a diverse ecosystem to explore.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a canopy of towering pines and majestic hardwoods, their branches creating nature's own cathedral above your campsite. The 67-acre Lyman Lake serves as the campground's centerpiece, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest like a mirror. Steep banks lead down to hidden coves perfect for swimming, while open meadows provide stunning vistas across the water. The diverse ecosystem supports an impressive variety of fish species that keep anglers returning year after year, and if you're lucky (and properly prepared), you might catch a glimpse of the black bears that occasionally wander through this protected wilderness.
Geological RegionLyman Lake Campground showcases the distinctive beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where ancient geological forces carved out numerous inland lakes now cradled by the protective embrace of the Hiawatha National Forest. This 67-acre lake represents the region's glacial heritage, surrounded by a thriving ecosystem where northern hardwoods mingle with evergreen pines. The varied topography creates diverse habitats that support everything from trophy fish lurking in the lake's depths to the magnificent forests that have reclaimed this land, making it a living testament to the resilience and beauty of the North Woods.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly list accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary significantly, ranging from small (35 ft x 25 ft at Site 1) to very large (80 ft x 40 ft at Site 9).
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies across the campground, with some sites described as semi-private or secluded. "We stayed at site 1 and it was quite private with a really nice view. It was a tight fit getting into with our 16' trailer." - Henry W.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Sites 2, 3, and 5 for good swimming access. Site 10 offers isolation and scenic views. Tents are recommended for Site 7 due to its sloped terrain.
Best CampsitesSite 5 is popular for its large size and good road access, accommodating up to 24 guests. Site 10 is noted for its seclusion and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Flexible based on site reservation policies.
Check-out
Check-out time is before 12:00 PM on the final day of reservation.
Stay Limit
14-day maximum consecutive stay
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by campsite: Sites 1, 7, 10 (max 8 guests), Sites 2-4, 6, 8, 9 (max 16 guests), Site 5 (max 24 guests).
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly referenced.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are distributed along Lyman Lake, with varying levels of privacy and accessibility. Site descriptions include dimensions, guest capacity, and terrain details.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to October 9. Reservations start June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, contact center, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available for first-come, first-served basis. Availability is subject to fill patterns and peak season demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before check-in day. A $10 fee applies to cancellations made more than 1 day before arrival. Late cancellations (after midnight the day prior to check-in) incur an additional fee equal to the first night's stay. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, berry picking, and boating. The lake supports fishing for species such as bluegills and northern pike. "We love how the site is very secluded and right on the lake with easy access and easy launch for kayaks and canoes." - Cassandra K.
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails are reported within minutes of several campsites. Specific trail names or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is popular at Lyman Lake, which supports a diverse fishery including bluegills and northern pike. A license is required to fish in Michigan waters.Swimming
Swimming conditions depend on site choice. Sites 3 and 5 offer good swimming areas, while others are poor. "Some of the sites as far as swimming or fishing from shore stink." - Christine B.Biking
Biking trails are accessible nearby. Specific trails are not named in the authoritative content.Boating
There is back-in boat access with parking located between sites 6 and 7. Site 9 is described as ideal for kayaking.Winter Activities
No winter activities are explicitly listed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing occur at several sites. "We love how the site is very secluded and right on the lake with easy access and easy launch for kayaks and canoes." - Cassandra K.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted; campers must use dead and downed wood collected from the surrounding area.
- Quiet hours vary but disruptive behavior (e.g., loud music) is discouraged.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads leading to the campground are challenging and hazardous due to poor maintenance. Wildlife hazards include potential bear encounters (as noted in user reviews).
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
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
Nearest emergency services include Delta County dispatch and sheriff (reachable via 911). For medical emergencies, nearby hospitals or clinics are located in Rapid River.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 – October 9, 2025
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out policy is enforced. Campers commented on litter issues: "People used the woods as a toilet, and it wasn’t nice walking past toilet paper and crap." - Ernest H.
Proximity to water featuresAll campsites are located along the shores of Lyman Lake, which spans 67 acres and supports diverse fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include poor road conditions, lack of amenities like picnic tables and potable water, and insufficient ranger patrols to address disruptive campers.
Campground Map
8181 US HWY 2, Rapid River, MI, 49878, USA
Driving directionsPrimary access is off Forest Roads 2218 and 2436, with secondary access depending on which site is chosen. From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River): drive north 8.4 miles on Highway 13 to CR 442. Turn right (east) and drive 8 miles to FR 2218. Turn left (north) and drive 1.5 miles to the access to site #1. For sites 2-10: drive 1.4 miles from the intersection of CR 442 and FR 2218 to FR 2880. Turn right (east) and drive to the campsites.
The campground is accessed via unpaved forest roads (Forest Roads 2218, 2436, and FR 2880). User reviews consistently describe the roads as 'terrible,' with difficulties including potholes, uneven terrain, and narrow sections. Seasonal accessibility may be impacted by weather conditions.Nearby places
Rapid River (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Thunder Lake area (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gasoline, camping supplies, bait shops, ice, and deli are available seven miles northeast on County Road 437 in the Thunder Lake area.
Camper Reviews
3.7
27 reviews
Lyman Lake Campsites has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the rustic charm and challenges of Lyman Lake Campsites. Positive sentiments focus on the natural beauty, spacious sites, and lake access, while negative feedback includes complaints about cleanliness, noise, and road conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
- "Great place to camp lots of space." - Leslie A.
- "Quiet! Good lake for fishing! Large space! Will return!" - Carrie F.
- "We love how the site is very secluded and right on the lake with easy...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- "Road going into campsite is terrible!" - Rick L.
- "Prior campers left garbage everywhere." - Keryl S.
- "The outhouse hasn’t been cleaned in who know how long and stunk up campsite." - Gene S.
Based on 27 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug repellant, pack drinking water, and prepare for primitive conditions. Site 5 is highly recommended for larger groups. Consider avoiding peak times to minimize noise and crowds.
Based on 27 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and early fall are considered ideal for camping due to activities like berry picking and fishing. Fall is favored for its quieter atmosphere as noted by Rod K: "Did some fall camping, best...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "HUGE campsites. Families could camp together on each site." - Marie Cooper
- "The view was amazing, but prior campers left garbage everywhere." - Keryl S.
- "Always a great time camping here." -...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1: Private, tight fit for trailers.
Site 5: Large and accommodates multiple tents.
Site 6: Spacious but noisy due to boat launch proximity.
Site 10: Secluded with good lake access.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for disabled visitors.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet-friendly features or policies.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025