Imp Lake Campground
4.279 reviewsE23979 US 2 East Watersmeet, MI 49969
Imp Lake Campground
$16.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
Fees are $22 per night during summer recreation period with full services. Reduced fees or no charges apply in early spring and late fall when services (water and garbage) are unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Imp Lake, this hidden gem in the Ottawa National Forest beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. Wake to the haunting calls of nesting loons echoing across mirror-still waters from your lakeside campsite, or find solitude beneath ancient hemlocks in the forest loop. This thoughtfully designed campground balances rustic charm with essential comforts—vault toilets, hand-pump wells for fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings where countless stories have been shared under starlit skies. With two distinct camping loops to choose from, including one that welcomes adventurous souls year-round, Imp Lake serves as your basecamp for unforgettable forest memories.
Imp Lake Campground offers a rustic camping experience with 22 drive-in sites suitable for tents, trailers, and motorhomes. The campground has two loops, and the first loop closes seasonally, while the second remains open year-round.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Imp Lake, where the camping experience harkens to the golden age of forest service campgrounds. The weathered wood picnic tables and classic vault toilets tell stories of decades of family adventures, meticulously maintained to preserve their vintage charm. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent—it's a living reminder of simpler times when campgrounds were gateways to genuine wilderness experiences. The infrastructure, reminiscent of 1990s forest service design, creates an atmosphere where modern stress melts away and connection with nature takes center stage.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit between July and September to experience Imp Lake at its finest, when warm days invite swimming and cool evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings. The lake's refreshingly crisp waters provide natural air conditioning even on summer's hottest days. Come autumn, the surrounding forest explodes into a painter's palette of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges—a photographer's dream. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and renewed bird activity, though early-season visitors should pack extra bug spray for the mosquito welcoming committee. Even winter camping enthusiasts will find peace in the year-round loop, where snow blankets the forest in serene silence.
ElevationPerched at 1,660 feet above sea level, Imp Lake Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This elevation creates a unique microclimate where morning mists dance across the lake surface and afternoon breezes whisper through the pine boughs. The higher altitude supports a diverse ecosystem of plants and wildlife rarely seen at lower elevations, making every hike a journey of discovery. Cool nights guarantee restful sleep in your tent, while crisp mornings invite you to wrap your hands around a steaming cup of coffee as you watch the forest awaken.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering sentinels of ancient hardwoods and stately pines create a natural cathedral around Imp Lake Campground, their branches forming a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The crown jewel is Imp Lake itself—a pristine, motor-restricted sanctuary where loons nest undisturbed and paddle silently across glassy waters at dawn. The no-wake policy preserves the lake's meditative quality, making it perfect for peaceful canoe excursions or quiet contemplation from the shoreline. Every direction offers postcard-worthy views, from misty morning reflections to fiery sunsets that paint the sky in impossible shades of pink and gold.
Geological RegionThe Ottawa National Forest cradles Imp Lake in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and millions of years of natural forces. Here, where the Canadian Shield meets the Great Lakes region, the campground sits atop bedrock that tells the story of Earth's dramatic past. Magnificent old-growth hardwoods and pines sink their roots deep into mineral-rich soils, creating a lush tapestry of vegetation that changes with each passing season. The tranquil waters of Imp Lake fill a natural depression carved by ice age glaciers, now transformed into a peaceful haven where the only ripples come from jumping fish or the gentle stroke of a canoe paddle.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no explicitly designated accessible sites or features for individuals with disabilities. However, the nearby Imp Lake Trail is noted as wheelchair accessible with a mostly level path and boardwalk sections.
Sites SizeThe campground's parking aprons are gravel, grass, and asphalt. Many spurs are narrow with drop-offs, and caution is advised when stepping out of vehicles.
Sites PrivacyAll campsites are spaced with natural vegetation for screening, providing a sense of privacy between sites.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and scenic views, choose lakeside sites. Off-lake sites are ideal for those seeking shade and less lake activity.
Best CampsitesLakeside sites are particularly popular for their serene views and proximity to the lake. Site 22 has been specifically mentioned in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
24 hours (self-pay)
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Camping in a developed recreation site is allowed for a maximum of 14 days. After this period, campers must move to another location for at least 24 hours.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight guests are permitted per site, along with two motorized vehicles. Each site accommodates one RV or camper trailer and up to three tents.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned, and there is no information about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops. Loop 1 is larger but open only during summer and early fall, while Loop 2 remains open year-round.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 17 - September 30, with reduced services starting September 30.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 22 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Loop 1 is open only during summer and early fall; Loop 2 remains open year-round.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not accepted; this is a first-come, first-served campground.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Imp Lake Campground provides various outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. These activities make the campground a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Imp Lake Trail, located across from the campground, is a one-mile loop trail with wheelchair-accessible features, including boardwalk sections and wooden chairs at the halfway point. It is particularly scenic during fall. One reviewer described it as a "great bonus and worth the hike!"Fishing
Imp Lake is a no-wake, 111-acre lake that features trout and panfish. It is a favorite destination for fishermen. However, there is no fishing platform or cleaning station.Swimming
The picnic area has a swimmable shoreline, making it suitable for casual swimming activities. No lifeguard services or specific safety measures were mentioned.Boating
Boating is supported, with a concrete boat ramp available for launching motorized and non-motorized boats. Imp Lake is a no-wake lake, ideal for canoeing and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
The lake’s small island is a nesting area for loons, which can be viewed from the shoreline. Wildlife such as whitetail deer, bears, eagles, and wolves can also be observed. One user remarked on the mystical calls of loons, which enhance the camping experience.Winter Activities
The second camping loop remains accessible during winter when snow conditions permit, but there are no specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are ideal for the no-wake Imp Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only within the designated fire rings provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent, especially during warmer months. Narrow parking spurs with drop-offs may pose risks. Yellow water from hand pumps has been noted in user reviews.
Active alertsReduced services begin September 30, with no water or garbage disposal available.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.5 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
Emergency services are located in Watersmeet, MI, approximately 6 miles away. This includes police stations and hospitals.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly-September
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but garbage is occasionally an issue. One user mentioned, "Garbage is still a problem at the beach which is idiotic." Another noted that the campground had garbage lying around during their visit.
Proximity to water featuresImp Lake is a central feature of the campground, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. A picnic area and boat ramp are located adjacent.
Common complaintsSome visitors have complained about garbage left behind by previous campers and the yellow color of water from hand pumps. Mosquito infestations are another recurring issue.
HostNull
Campground Map
E23979 US 2 East Watersmeet, MI 49969
Driving directionsFrom Watersmeet, MI, take US Rt. 2 east 5.5 miles to Forest Rt. 3978. Turn right onto Rt. 3978 and go south 0.8 miles to campground sign. Turn right into campground.
The campground is conveniently located near US Route 2, providing easy access. However, parking aprons are gravel, grass, and asphalt, with some spurs being narrow and having drop-offs. Visitors are advised to exercise caution.Nearby places
Watersmeet - 6 miles (approximately 10 minutes), Iron River - 25 miles (approximately 35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel, can be obtained in Watersmeet, MI, about 6 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
9 reviews
Imp Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s rustic charm and beautiful setting. Visitors appreciate the serene lake view, natural privacy, and wildlife, but some express dissatisfaction with the lack of modern amenities and occasional garbage issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the picturesque scenery, well-spaced campsites, and opportunities to see wildlife. One camper noted, "Beautiful, well-maintained, quiet, campsites well spaced." Another stated, "The...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the absence of modern facilities such as showers and hookups, issues with mosquitoes, and reports of garbage in some areas. One user commented, "The water comes out yellow from the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent, as bugs can be a nuisance. Be prepared for rustic conditions with no hookups or showers. Consider camping in the fall to enjoy the vibrant colors along the Imp Lake Trail.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the summer and early fall, with the best season noted as July through September. The vibrant fall colors make it particularly attractive during autumn.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The age of infrastructure here makes this place a historic gem." "Loons nest on an island, and you can hear their mystical and haunting calls." "Garbage is still a problem at the beach which is...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 22 was specifically mentioned by one camper who stayed for two nights but provided no further details.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground lacks designated accessible sites, but the Imp Lake Trail is wheelchair accessible, which may provide some recreational options for individuals with mobility limitations.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025