Norway Lake Campground
4.6017 reviews4810 E. M28 Kenton, MI 49967
Norway Lake Campground
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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 campground charges a flat rate of $14 per night. Golden Age/Interagency Senior and Access Passes are accepted, offering discounts.
About this campground
Nestled beneath towering Norway pines in the heart of Ottawa National Forest, Norway Lake Campground invites you to experience the tranquility of Michigan's Upper Peninsula wilderness. This thoughtfully designed retreat features 27 spacious drive-in sites spread across two loops, each naturally screened by lush vegetation to create your own private forest sanctuary. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV, you'll find everything you need: sturdy wooden tables for lakeside meals, fire rings for evening storytelling, and charming lantern posts that cast a warm glow as dusk falls. Three clean vault toilets and two hand-pumped wells provide fresh mountain water throughout your stay. Just steps from your site, discover a boat ramp for morning paddles, a welcoming picnic pavilion, and a sandy beach perfect for afternoon swims in the crystal-clear lake.
Norway Lake Campground offers traditional camping accommodations for tents, trailers, and motorhomes. It is a rustic, primitive campground with no modern amenities.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the day-use area's magnificent stone pavilion, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps workers who shaped this landscape during the 1930s. This architectural gem stands as a gathering place where generations of families have celebrated, picnicked, and created memories. As one visitor fondly recalled after returning to Norway Lake: 'Camped here 50 years ago...hasn't changed much.' This timeless quality makes the campground a living bridge between past and present, where your children can experience the same unspoiled wilderness that enchanted their grandparents.
Weather and SeasonsThe magic of Norway Lake truly comes alive from June through September, when warm summer days give way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire conversations. During these peak months, temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, swimming, and stargazing. Seasoned visitors know to pack layers, as the forest can surprise with crisp mornings even in summer. Outside this golden window, the campground transforms into a quieter retreat where hardy adventurers might encounter frost-kissed mornings or even a dusting of early snow—reminders of the raw beauty of northern Michigan's changing seasons.
ElevationPerched at 1,680 feet above sea level, Norway Lake Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This elevated position creates a unique microclimate where morning mists dance across the water and afternoon breezes whisper through the pine boughs. The altitude delivers noticeably cooler temperatures than the valleys below, ensuring comfortable sleeping conditions and invigorating morning air that makes that first cup of camp coffee taste even better.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Norway pines reign over this enchanting campground, their rust-colored bark and evergreen crowns creating a natural cathedral that filters golden sunlight by day and frames countless stars by night. The surrounding landscape unfolds in gentle sandy hills clothed in northern hardwoods, while the pristine lake mirrors the sky and forest in its calm waters. This diverse ecosystem pulses with life—white-tailed deer emerge at dawn to drink from the shore, haunting loon calls echo across the water at twilight, and waterfowl trace graceful patterns across the lake throughout the day. Every sunrise brings new discoveries in this living tapestry of forest, water, and wildlife.
Geological RegionNorway Lake Campground showcases the distinctive beauty of the Ottawa National Forest, where ancient geological forces carved a landscape of rolling hills, pristine lakes, and sandy soils perfect for the towering Norway pines that define this region. This corner of Michigan's Upper Peninsula represents millions of years of natural history, from glacial sculpting to forest succession, creating an outdoor classroom where massive pines stand sentinel over a serene lake environment that has captivated visitors for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not have any officially designated accessible sites or facilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as being spacious, with some adjacent to Norway Lake. Specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyEach site is naturally screened by vegetation, providing a degree of privacy. One user review highlights this: 'It is right on the lake and rather private.'
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the lake for better views and privacy. Site 21 is particularly recommended for its quiet setting and direct lake access.
Best CampsitesSite 21 is often praised for its direct lake access and quiet surroundings away from the swimming beach.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6AM
Check-out
10 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is allowed for a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight people and 2 motorized vehicles are allowed per campsite.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites mentioned in the provided materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into two loops, each offering naturally screened sites to enhance privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 24 - October 31
Reservation PlatformsNorway Lake Campground does not accept reservations; sites are first-come-first-served.
Walk-in Availability"No reservations" policy enables walk-up availability for all 27 sites. Early arrivals are recommended during holiday weekends or peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not mentioned in the authoritative source materials.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and swimming. Notably, Norway Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is suited for both motorized and non-motorized boating activities. The adjacent Deer Marsh Interpretive Trail offers a 3-mile loop trail for wildlife viewing, featuring interpretive signs and platforms.
Hiking
The Deer Marsh Interpretive Trail, approximately 3 miles long, is described as having easy to intermediate difficulty on rolling, sandy ground. The trail features interpretive signs, a puncheon bridge, and two viewing platforms. It takes hikers through pine forests and northern hardwoods along Deer Marsh.Fishing
Norway Lake offers fishing opportunities for species such as walleye, bass, and panfish. Fishing can be done by boat, canoe, or from the shore. Reviewers describe the lake as serene and suitable for kayaking and fishing.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in the lake, and the beach area includes a sand and grass shoreline. A changing house is available near the swimming area.Boating
The lake accommodates both motorized and non-motorized boating. There are concrete launch ramps and trailer parking available. Non-motorized boating is described as ideal for canoeing or kayaking and enjoying fishing or sightseeing. There are no fees to launch boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen in the area includes whitetail deer, beavers, waterfowl, owls, and eagles. The Deer Marsh Interpretive Trail features two wildlife viewing platforms.Beach activities
The campground features a small beach area with sand and grass for sunbathing and swimming. A changing house is also available.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on Norway Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring. Firewood should be locally sourced to prevent invasive species.
Hazards
General hazards"Bugs can be viscous," as noted in user reviews, especially during warmer months. No running water is available, and campers should bring their own potable water.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.2 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 in Sidnaw, MI (8 miles away), which provides limited facilities. For more comprehensive services such as hospitals, Iron River, MI (~30 miles away) is the better option.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune - September
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash and recycling facilities. User reviews do not mention this aspect.
Proximity to water featuresNorway Lake is adjacent to the campground, featuring a boat ramp, swimming beach, and fishing opportunities. The lake supports motorized and non-motorized water activities.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include "no showers," "old well water," and "heavy mosquito presence." Some reviews also mention occasional noise disturbances and fireworks.
HostThere is no mention of campground hosts in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Campground Map
4810 E. M28 Kenton, MI 49967
Driving directionsFrom Sidnaw, MI, take Sidnaw Road south approximately 5 ½ miles to FR 2400, turn left onto FR 2400 and travel 2 miles to campground. From Iron River, MI, take County Road 657 north approximately 15 miles, turn slight right onto FR 2130, travel approximately 9 ½ miles on FR 2130 to Sidnaw Road, turn right onto Sidnaw Road and travel 3 ½ miles north, turn right onto FR 2400 and travel 2 miles to campground.
"Note: Last two miles can be rough." Roads to the campground include paved and unpaved segments, with potential rough terrain near the campground.Nearby places
Sidnaw, MI: 8 miles north (~15 min). Iron River, MI: 30 miles southeast (~45 min).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Sidnaw, MI (~8 miles), offering basic convenience stores. Larger grocery stores and fuel options are available in Iron River (~30 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
17 reviews
Norway Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a picture of a rustic, picturesque campground with serene lake views and a natural setting. Many visitors appreciate the privacy of the sites and the lack of modernization, while others criticize the absence of showers and the prevalence of bugs. 'If you aren't into rustic camping, don't bother,' one user summarized.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
- Beautiful lakeside setting.
- Spacious and private sites screened by vegetation.
- Opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.
- Quiet and peaceful, especially outside of peak holiday...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of modern amenities such as showers and flush toilets.
- Prevalence of bugs, particularly mosquitoes.
- Limited water facilities; some recommend bringing your own drinking water.
- Noise...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own potable water as some reviews mention old or limited well water.
- Site #21 is highly recommended for its direct access to the lake.
- Visit during off-peak times (e.g., late...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is busiest during holiday weekends, but quieter in late September. Mosquitoes are more prevalent in the summer months.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'If you aren't into rustic camping, don't bother.'
- 'No showers, old well water, and bugs aplenty. I love it!'
- 'The lake view is very nice!'
- 'The beauty and serenity make this a delightful...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #21 is praised for its direct access to the lake and relative isolation from busier areas. Other lakefront sites are also popular among campers.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, and the campground is noted to lack designated accessible sites.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One review mentioned the campground as 'dog-friendly,' suggesting pets are allowed.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025