Perch Lake Campground
4.677 reviewsPerch Lake Campground, Kenton Ranger District, Iron County, Michigan, USA
Perch Lake Campground
$14.00 - $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
Camping fees are $22 per night during the summer recreation period when full services are available. During early spring and late fall, fees may not be charged due to reduced services. Day-use/boat launch fees are $5 per vehicle per day or $30 per vehicle for a season pass. Those staying at the campground are exempt from day-use fees.
About this campground
Nestled within the verdant embrace of Ottawa National Forest, Perch Lake Campground offers 20 thoughtfully designed drive-in sites where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you're arriving with a tent tucked in your trunk or navigating the forest roads in a motorhome, each campsite welcomes you with the promise of lakeside serenity. Nature herself serves as your privacy screen here, with lush vegetation creating intimate outdoor rooms where memories are made around crackling fire rings. Many fortunate campers wake to find themselves just steps from the water's edge, where morning mist dances across Perch Lake's surface. Essential comforts blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience, from sturdy picnic tables perfect for sunset dinners to clean vault toilets and refreshing hand-pumped spring water.
The campground accommodates various camping types, including tent camping, trailer camping, and motor homes.
Weather and SeasonsFrom Memorial Day weekend through Halloween's final glow, Perch Lake Campground awakens each May 24th and welcomes visitors until October 31st. June through September reveals the campground at its finest, when warm sunshine filters through the canopy and gentle breezes carry the scent of pine and wildflowers. Summer days invite swimming and lazy afternoons, while September brings a painter's palette of autumn colors reflected in the lake's mirror surface. Pack layers for your adventure – mornings may greet you with cool mist that gives way to sun-warmed afternoons, and evening campfires become especially welcome as autumn's crisp air settles over the forest.
ElevationPerched at 1,680 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where elevation works its subtle magic. This natural air conditioning keeps summer temperatures refreshingly comfortable, turning hot July days into perfect camping weather. The elevated position creates ideal conditions for those seeking respite from sweltering lowland heat, while autumn visitors enjoy crisp, clear nights perfect for stargazing.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering hardwoods mingle with evergreen sentinels, creating a cathedral of green that shelters your camping experience. The star of this natural theater is Perch Lake itself – nearly 1,000 acres of pristine water that mirrors the sky and surrounding forest. Morning paddlers glide past great blue herons fishing in the shallows, while evening brings a symphony of loons and the splash of jumping fish. The mature mixed-wood forest creates a multilayered tapestry of life, from the moss-covered forest floor to the wind-whispered canopy above, where sunlight filters through in golden streams.
Geological RegionThe Ottawa National Forest cradles this campground in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and nurtured by centuries of growth. Here, the characteristic mixed-wood forests of the upper Midwest reach their full glory, where sugar maples stand shoulder-to-shoulder with white pines and yellow birches. Perch Lake, sprawling across 994 acres, anchors a constellation of pristine water bodies that define this region. The interplay of water and forest creates diverse ecosystems where northern species thrive, making this corner of Michigan a living museum of Great Lakes natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilet available near site #11. No other specific accessibility features mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, and many have lake access.
Sites PrivacySites are separated by natural vegetation for privacy.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLakefront sites are recommended for their proximity to the water and scenic views. Early arrival is advised, particularly during peak seasons, to secure these popular spots.
Best CampsitesSites close to the lake are highly preferred by visitors for their views and water access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Open 24 hours
- no specific check-in time.
Check-out
None specified, likely by noon on the day of departure.
Stay Limit
14-day maximum stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site, with 2 motorized vehicles allowed. Sites may accommodate one RV or camper trailer and up to 2 tents, or a maximum of 3 tents.
Groups
No designated group sites mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop design with 20 campsites screened by natural vegetation for privacy. Some sites are directly adjacent to Perch Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 24 - October 31. Limited services or closures outside this timeframe.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 20 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is recommended to secure a site, especially during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCampers must occupy the site on the first night of their reservation. Reservations are not available; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Perch Lake Campground include fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is popular for motorized and non-motorized boating, and its diverse fish population makes it an excellent fishing destination. The surrounding woods and trails provide opportunities for hiking and nature exploration.
Hiking
The Lake Shore Trail, described as easy to intermediate, is available for hiking.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Perch Lake, a 994-acre lake with species such as Northern Pike, Walleye, Crappie, and Perch. Fishing can be done from boats, canoes, or the bank.Boating
Boating is popular on Perch Lake, which offers a concrete-based boat ramp for motorized and non-motorized boats including kayaks, canoes, and small boats. No size restrictions for boats.Wildlife viewing
The wooded surroundings and lake provide opportunities for observing wildlife.Winter Activities
None specified.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on Perch Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring. Campfires are allowed but should be attended at all times and fully extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are not formally posted but are expected to be observed out of respect for other campers.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as black bears, making the use of proper food storage practices essential. The gravel road leading to the campground may require careful navigation, especially in wet conditions.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
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
Kenton Ranger District Office (10 miles north, 906-852-3500, Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.). Additional emergency services are likely available in Sidnaw and nearby towns.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune through September is the best season, as full services are available.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash and recycling facilities mentioned, but user reviews suggest campers should be mindful of waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Perch Lake, a 994-acre lake with a boat ramp and opportunities for various water activities, including motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints center around other campers being disrespectful, such as walking through occupied campsites to access the lake. Some users also mentioned a lack of upgrades to amenities such as tables and fire pits.
Campground Map
Perch Lake Campground, Kenton Ranger District, Iron County, Michigan, USA
Driving directionsPerch Lake Campground is located 10 miles southeast of Sidnaw on the Kenton Ranger District in the Ottawa National Forest. From Sidnaw, travel south on Sidnaw Road for approximately 10 miles. The road is paved for approximately 6.5 miles and then becomes gravel for the remaining distance. From Iron River, take County Road 657 north for about 15 miles, turn right onto FR 2130, travel about 9.5 miles, then turn left onto Sidnaw Road and travel 2 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is paved for the first 6.5 miles and transitions to gravel for the remaining 3.5 miles. The gravel road is reportedly well-maintained and manageable even after rain, according to user reviews. Seasonal access is subject to closure between late fall and early spring.Nearby places
Sidnaw (10 miles, ~15-20 minutes), Ironwood (~2 hours), Marquette (~2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies and groceries can be accessed in Sidnaw, located 10 miles north of the campground. Additional options are available in larger towns like Ironwood and Marquette (~2 hours away).
Camper Reviews
4.7
7 reviews
Perch Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful environment, good fishing opportunities, and spacious lakeside sites screened by vegetation. However, some users report issues with campsite etiquette and a lack of modern facilities such as showers and electricity.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include scenic lakeside sites, clean vault toilets, good fishing, and a quiet atmosphere. One user described it as 'Awesome little slice of heaven!'
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include a need for site upgrades, lack of showers and electricity, as well as occasional noise from inconsiderate campers.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include choosing lakeside sites for privacy and lake access, bringing firewood, and respecting campsite boundaries. One user advises docking boats by your own site to avoid walking...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is best experienced during the summer months of June to September, as noted in user reviews and official sources. Spring and late fall are less ideal due to reduced services.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Vault toilets...were the cleanest I've ever seen." (Amanda Turnbull) "Awesome little slice of heaven!" (Rhonda Astor) "Nice sites. Only the lakeside ones get used." (Nicole Mellin)
Based on 7 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #12 is praised for its shaded location and direct lake access. Lakeside sites are generally preferred by reviewers.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilet near site #11 noted. No other feedback from users regarding broader accessibility features.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pets or pet-friendly features.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025