Tom'S Lake Cabin
4.5823 reviews8181 US HWY 2, RAPID RIVER, MI, 49878, USA
Tom'S Lake Cabin
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 Tom's Lake Cabin is $45, applicable year-round. Additional fees may apply for reservation services: $8 online/app booking, $9 contact center booking, $3 in-person booking.
About this campground
Perched on a scenic knoll with sweeping views of pristine Tom's Lake, this charming 1991-built cabin offers an authentic Northwoods escape in the heart of Hiawatha National Forest. Your private sanctuary awaits, where up to eight guests can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's rhythms. Here, mornings begin with mist rising off the lake and evenings end with the haunting call of loons echoing across the water.
Tom's Lake Cabin offers primitive-style lodging in a secluded environment. It is a cabin rental without modern facilities but includes essential amenities like a wood stove and fire pit.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of true seasons at Tom's Lake, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland. Though temperatures can plunge below -13°F, the cabin's crackling wood stove creates a cozy haven after days spent snowshoeing through silent forests or gliding across frozen trails on cross-country skis. When summer arrives, gentle breezes sweep across the lake, creating perfect conditions for trail adventures, lazy afternoons fishing from the shore, and refreshing swims in the clear waters.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by the emerald embrace of old-growth forest, the cabin overlooks the sparkling 23-acre expanse of Tom's Lake, where pristine waters invite swimming, paddling, and fishing enthusiasts. This untamed wilderness serves as a living sanctuary for remarkable wildlife—watch for white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, listen for the distant howl of wolves under starlit skies, and keep your camera ready for potential black bear sightings. Bird lovers will delight in spotting some of the 250+ avian species that call these woods home, from majestic bald eagles to tiny, jewel-toned warblers.
Geological RegionDeep within Hiawatha National Forest's vast wilderness, this semi-primitive landscape showcases nature's incredible diversity. Ancient forests stretch as far as the eye can see, punctuated by pristine lakes that mirror the sky and shelter an extraordinary tapestry of plant and animal life. This protected ecosystem represents one of the Midwest's most biodiverse regions, where the rhythms of the natural world continue undisturbed, just as they have for centuries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWinter accessibility is limited, as the entry road is not plowed. Campers must walk, ski, or snowmobile the 1/4-mile road to the cabin during snowy months.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious for up to eight occupants, with ample seating and sleeping arrangements.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers privacy, enhanced by its secluded location and the option to close the gate at the entry road.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring camp chairs for additional comfort around the wood stove. For fishing, try nearby lakes if Tom's Lake activity is slow.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole option, offering proximity to the lake and trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Tom's Lake Cabin accommodates up to 8 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle rustic cabin overlooking Tom's Lake, surrounded by forest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations start June 21, 2025 for peak season (January 1 - December 31, 2025).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov, via website, mobile app, contact center, and in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability. All stays must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date with applicable fees. Late cancellations for cabins are subject to a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled fewer than 14 days prior to check-in.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tom's Lake Cabin provides ample recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and winter sports. The nearby Pine Marten Run trail system offers 26 miles of trails for various activities, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible within a few miles of the cabin, such as the Pine Marten Run trail system. Reviews highlight the beautiful trails and scenic views. One user stated, "Lots of good views and quiet nature."Fishing
Fishing is available on Tom's Lake, targeting largemouth bass and bluegill. However, boat access is carry-in only. A user mentioned, "Fishing on Tom’s was slow but had great luck everywhere else!"Swimming
The lake is ideal for swimming, although specific facilities or safety measures are not mentioned.Biking
Biking trails are nearby, including the Ironjaw semi-primitive area and the Pine Marten Run trail system.Boating
Boat access is carry-in only, which adds to the rustic charm of the cabin experience. Canoeing and kayaking opportunities are mentioned in nearby attractions.Wildlife viewing
The Hiawatha National Forest is rich in wildlife, including whitetail deer, black bear, grey wolves, coyotes, eagles, hawks, and rabbits. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with over 250 species observed in the area.Winter Activities
Winter recreation options include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling on nearby trails.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, particularly at nearby lakes and rivers.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire pit area; guests are encouraged to use locally sourced firewood to prevent invasive pests.
Hazards
General hazardsIn winter, icy roads and extreme cold can be challenging. Wildlife like bears and wolves may be present but are generally not aggressive.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
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
Closest emergency medical services are located in Rapid River. Contacting local ranger stations at (906) 474-6442 or (906) 387-2512 is recommended for assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe facility follows a 'Pack it in, Pack it out' policy, meaning campers must take all trash and recycling with them.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Tom's Lake with carry-in boat access.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention cleanliness issues and minor maintenance needs, such as a broken storm door handle and gaps under the doors allowing small animals inside.
Campground Map
8181 US HWY 2, RAPID RIVER, MI, 49878, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of U.S. Highway 2 and Forest Highway 13 (25 miles west of Manistique or 14 miles east of Rapid River), drive north 19 miles on FH13 to County Rad 440. Turn right (east) on CR440 and drive about 3 miles to FR2082. Turn left (north) and drive to the cabin.
The entry road to the cabin is accessible year-round except during winter when the 1/4-mile road is not plowed, requiring guests to park at a lot along County Road 440 and walk, ski, or snowmobile in. The drive includes paved and unpaved roads.Nearby places
Manistique (25 miles west, approx. 40 minutes drive), Rapid River (14 miles east, approx. 20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, gasoline, fishing and camping supplies, boat rentals, ice, MDNR licenses, deli, and restaurants are available on Highway 13.
Camper Reviews
4.6
23 reviews
Tom'S Lake Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the cabin's serenity, well-maintained facilities, and abundance of recreational activities. Some concerns include cleanliness and minor maintenance issues like a broken storm door.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the stocked firewood, functionality of the wood stove, and scenic surroundings. "Beautiful location," "roomy & cozy," and "great family experience" are common sentiments.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Cleanliness issues and minor maintenance concerns were noted in reviews. One user stated, "Not clean...just so dirty that we are talking about getting it just to clean." Another mentioned, "Storm...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring additional supplies like camp chairs for comfort and a small boat to explore other lakes nearby. One reviewer advised, "Use the cabin log to determine your best itinerary each day."
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter visits are highly recommended due to the well-stocked wood stove and scenic snow-covered trails. Summer reviews mention fishing and hiking as highlights.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We love Tom's Lake Cabin! Even though it hit -13 in the mornings we stayed comfortable." "Fishing on Tom’s was slow but had great luck everywhere else!" "The cabin itself was roomy and the...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews focus on Tom's Lake Cabin itself. Specific feedback includes issues with the storm door and cleanliness, alongside praise for the cabin's amenities and location.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
Winter access requires parking at a lot and traveling 1/4 mile to the cabin due to unplowed roads. "Plan to ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile the quarter-mile entry road," according to official sources.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and cannot be left alone in the cabin. No specific issues were reported related to pet policies.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025