Burned Dam Campground
4.268 reviewsForest Road 4500, Ottawa National Forest, Burned Dam Campground, MI
Burned Dam Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
No charge for use of this campground due to limited services provided. Visitors are advised to pack in and pack out.
About this campground
Hidden deep within the Ottawa National Forest, Burned Dam Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This rustic, dispersed camping area serves as your gateway to pristine fishing waters along the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River and the thundering cascade of Mex-i-mine Falls. Here, where dense forest canopies create natural cathedrals and the river's gentle murmur provides nature's soundtrack, you'll discover the kind of solitude that modern life rarely offers. Whether you're casting a line into promising pools, paddling through mirror-smooth waters, or simply breathing in the pine-scented air, this secluded haven delivers the quintessential Upper Peninsula camping experience.
Burned Dam Campground is a dispersed and rustic camping area featuring primitive amenities. Accommodations include basic tent sites.
Historical SignificanceThese woods echo with the stories of Michigan's logging era, when burly lumberjacks once guided massive log drives down the very waters that now offer peaceful paddling. The campground and nearby Mex-i-mine Falls stand as living monuments to this rugged heritage, where the sweat and determination of early loggers helped build the communities that dot the Upper Peninsula. As you explore the riverbanks, you're walking paths carved by generations of workers who transported timber to hungry sawmills downstream. This rich logging legacy adds layers of meaning to every trail and every view, connecting modern visitors to the pioneering spirit that shaped this wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms dramatically with each passing season, offering unique adventures year-round. Summer brings gentle warmth perfect for riverside relaxation, though savvy campers come prepared for the mosquitoes that thrive in these lush woodlands. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in a symphony of reds and golds, creating spectacular photo opportunities. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, with temperatures plunging well below freezing—a wonderland for those properly equipped for cold-weather camping. Spring's arrival brings rushing waters and awakening wildlife, making each visit a distinctly different experience.
ElevationNestled at the comfortable elevation characteristic of the Ottawa National Forest, the campground occupies gently rolling terrain that typifies this ancient landscape. The moderate forest floor creates an ideal setting for both leisurely strolls and more ambitious hikes, with just enough topographical variety to keep things interesting without being overly challenging. This forested plateau provides excellent drainage for camping while offering strategic vantage points to survey the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering pines and hardwoods create a living green fortress around your campsite. The star attraction remains the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River, whose dark waters wind mysteriously through the forest before tumbling spectacularly over Mex-i-mine Falls. This remote sanctuary serves as home to black bears, who forage among abundant blackberry brambles and blueberry bushes that also offer treats for observant hikers. Birdsong fills the morning air as warblers, woodpeckers, and raptors go about their daily routines. The dense canopy filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor, while moss-covered logs and fern-filled hollows create an enchanted atmosphere that feels worlds away from civilization.
Geological RegionBurned Dam Campground sits within the vast ecological tapestry of the Ottawa National Forest, where ancient geological forces have created a landscape of remarkable diversity. The Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River has carved its course through this terrain over millennia, creating the dramatic features visitors enjoy today. This rich ecological habitat supports an intricate web of plant and animal life, from the smallest woodland wildflowers to the magnificent old-growth trees that have stood sentinel for centuries. The interplay between water, forest, and stone creates microenvironments that harbor surprising biodiversity, making every exploration a potential discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMex-i-mine Falls is described as 'very accessible with a good trail' from the campground to the falls.
Sites SizeSites are generally small, with limited space for larger vehicles like campers. One reviewer noted, 'All small, wouldn't be able to fit a camper anywhere.'
Sites PrivacySites are nicely spaced apart, providing a reasonable level of privacy.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are small and best suited for tents; campers and large RVs are not recommended. Bring bug spray for mosquitoes.
Best CampsitesWhile no specific site is marked as the best, all five sites are described as nicely spaced and quiet.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
24 hours/day
Check-out
24 hours/day
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 days.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has only five sites, which are nicely spaced out for privacy. It includes poles with hooks at each site for hanging food bags (bear safety).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 - December 31.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is first-come, first-served due to its dispersed nature.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Burned Dam Campground offers activities including fishing, canoeing, hiking, and scenic waterfall viewing. The proximity to Mex-i-mine Falls and the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River makes this a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Mex-i-mine Falls is a short walk from the campground, with a good trail available. The hike around the waterfall area is short, estimated to take about 10 minutes.Fishing
Fishing is available on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River, with species such as Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Steelhead Trout, Smallmouth Bass, and Walleye. Fishing methods include bank fishing, wading, or floating.Boating
Non-motorized boating is available on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River.Wildlife viewing
The secluded location and trails provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. Additionally, rare plants and flowers can be found in the spring.Water Sports
Canoeing and similar activities are supported on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Visitors are allowed to have campfires, with no specific restrictions mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is noted, with signs posted about food storage safety. Poison ivy and mosquitoes are prevalent during warmer months.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.2 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 are available in Watersmeet, MI, including the Watersmeet/Iron River Ranger District. Contact: 906-358-4551 during operational hours (Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere are no official trash or recycling facilities. Campers must pack in and pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River and is a short walk from Mex-i-mine Falls.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are a common nuisance during summer. Some reviewers noted the remote nature and lack of modern amenities like water and electricity.
Campground Map
Forest Road 4500, Ottawa National Forest, Burned Dam Campground, MI
Driving directionsFrom Watersmeet, Mi., take US 45 north approximately 1 mile from intersection with US 2, turn right (east) on Old US 2 and travel approximately 7 miles east, turn left onto FR 4500 and travel approximately 1 mile to the campground. From Bruce Crossing, Mi., take US 45 south approximately 18 miles, turn left (east) onto Old US 2 and travel approximately 7 miles, turn left onto FR 4500 and travel approximately 1 mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible via unpaved forest roads. Seasonal closures may occur due to snow, as mentioned in the general information.Nearby places
Watersmeet (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Bruce Crossing (26 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Watersmeet, MI, approximately 8 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
8 reviews
Burned Dam Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Burned Dam Campground receives mixed reviews, with many praising its secluded, rustic charm and proximity to Mex-i-mine Falls. However, some users noted challenges such as mosquitoes, poison ivy, lack of water, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the peacefulness, scenic waterfall, and opportunities for fishing and hiking. One user called it 'an amazing little gem.' Another user stated, 'Great little campground in the Ottawa...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes issues with insects such as mosquitoes and poison ivy, limited phone service, and the primitive nature of the facilities. One user stated, 'Too primitive for this city...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bug spray for the mosquitoes and being cautious of poison ivy. It is also advised to bring all necessities, as there are no amenities like water or a camp store.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mosquitoes seem to be prevalent in the summer months, while snow may limit accessibility in the winter. Spring offers opportunities to see rare plants while camping remains quieter.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Mex-i-mine Falls is just steps away from the camping area.' - Nycki Reynolds. 'The sites are nicely spaced, not the biggest sites but big enough.' - Sayer Dolata. 'Nice sites, loud water.' - Michael...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground features five small sites that are well-spaced for privacy. One user noted, 'No power or water, but there is 2 outhouses. Only 5 campsites which was nice.'
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Mex-i-mine Falls are described as very accessible, and trails are short and easy to navigate.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025