Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite

For Michigan locals dreaming of a true escape into the Upper Peninsula wilderness, Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite offers a "great rustic and remote" experience within the beautiful Hiawatha National Forest. This collection of secluded campsites, situated directly on Chicago Lake, provides an ideal setting for those who seek tranquility, ample space, and a genuine connection with nature, far from the crowds of more developed campgrounds. It's a place where the sounds of the forest and the lapping of lake water are your primary companions, offering a much-needed respite from city life.

Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite truly embraces its rustic nature. As a dispersed site, you won't find modern amenities like electricity or running water at your individual spot. However, this simplicity is precisely what appeals to adventurers looking for a self-sufficient and immersive outdoor experience. Campers consistently praise the "very spacious" sites and the feeling of being "in the middle of nowhere and away from the city." While one visitor noted a particularly challenging experience with biting flies and mosquitoes, this is a common reality when camping in Michigan's pristine natural environments, especially during certain seasons, and a reminder to always come prepared with robust insect repellent and protective clothing.

Despite the challenges of navigating to the site without clear signage and cell service, as detailed by a previous camper, the reward of reaching this secluded haven is well worth the effort. The unique atmosphere, featuring a mix of grassy areas and a sandy bonfire pit, offers a distinct camping environment. Overall, Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite stands out as a prime destination for Michigan residents who are ready to embrace a true wilderness getaway, where the raw beauty of the Upper Peninsula takes center stage.

Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite is located on FR 2422, Wetmore, MI 49895, USA, placing it within the eastern reaches of the vast Hiawatha National Forest. This strategic location provides access to a remote and tranquil segment of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, known for its pristine forests and numerous inland lakes. The campsite is part of a cluster of four sites located around the north end of Chicago Lake, a 188-acre body of water.

Accessing Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite requires navigating unpaved forest roads. While one reviewer mentioned taking "a 1 mile off road adventure" down a "1 lane dirt path" with no signs from the main road, official information indicates a more structured approach. From the intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (approximately 14 miles east of Rapid River or 22 miles west of Manistique), visitors drive north on Highway 13, turn onto CR 442, then CR N-3, and finally onto FR 2422, which leads to the campsites. The dirt road is generally "perfectly navigable with any typical vehicle unless it is after/during torrential downpours," suggesting that most cars with decent clearance can reach the site. However, for those with "a 26ft trailer," the turnaround at the site can be "very tight," so planning accordingly is essential.

A significant accessibility feature is the "very nice public boat launch" located adjacent to Site #4, which gets "regular use but isn't overly busy or crowded." This gravel ramp provides direct and convenient access to Chicago Lake for boaters and anglers. For supplies, the nearest store, "Foxy's Den" on US-2, is approximately a "25min ride" from the site, reminding campers to stock up before arriving. This blend of remote tranquility with manageable vehicle access and convenient boat launching facilities makes Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite an attractive option for Michigan locals.

Services Offered:

• Rustic drive-in campsites (4 sites available). Site #1 is small and suitable for tents; Sites #2, #3, and #4 are larger and can accommodate 2 families and trailers.
• Each campsite typically includes a fire ring (though some may lack a grate) and a picnic table.
• Primitive toilets (vault toilets) are available at Site #2 and shared between Sites #3 and #4.
• Direct access to Chicago Lake via a public boat launch (adjacent to Site #4).
• Abundant tree cover provides natural shade for campsites.
• Managed by the Hiawatha National Forest; reservations are required for camping through Columbus Day.
• No drinking water available on site (campers must bring their own).
• No electricity hookups or showers.
• Pack-in, pack-out policy for all trash and personal belongings.

Features / Highlights:

• "Great rustic and remote campsites," offering a genuine wilderness experience.
• "Very spacious" sites, providing plenty of room for setup and privacy.
• Direct access to Chicago Lake, a 188-acre inland lake.
• Excellent fishing opportunities for northern pike, bluegills, largemouth bass, and perch in Chicago Lake.
• "Very nice public boat launch" with regular but not overcrowded use.
• "Plenty of grass" at sites, though the area around the fire pit can be sandy/sooty.
• Swimming conditions are considered "best at sites 3 and 4," and "fair at site 2." Site 1 is "poor."
• Feeling of being "in the middle of no where and away from the city."
• Ideal for those seeking a quiet weekend directly in the woods.
• Pets are allowed, but must be leashed.

Contact Information:

Address: FR 2422, Wetmore, MI 49895, USA

Phone: (906) 474-6442 (Hiawatha National Forest - Rapid River/Manistique Ranger District)

Reservations: Camping at Chicago Lake Campsites is by reservation only through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite is an exceptional destination for Michigan locals who are truly seeking an authentic and secluded Upper Peninsula outdoor adventure. While a past review candidly highlighted severe issues with biting flies and mosquitoes, this is a known challenge of camping in Michigan's wild areas during certain times of the year, particularly summer. For experienced campers, this simply means coming prepared with strong repellents, head nets, and appropriate clothing. Despite the bugs, the overwhelming sentiment emphasizes the site's immense positives: its spaciousness, direct lake access, and profound sense of being "in the middle of no where and away from the city."

The accessibility, though initially a "chore" due to lack of signage and cell service, leads to a truly rewarding experience. The "great rustic and remote" nature of the sites, combined with the "very nice public boat launch" that offers direct access to excellent fishing for northern pike and bluegills, makes it a prime spot for anglers and water enthusiasts. The primitive toilets and lack of drinking water reinforce the self-sufficient camping ethos, appealing to those who prefer to rely on their own resources and skills.

For Michigan residents, Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite represents a unique opportunity to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature. It’s perfect for a "weekend spent directly in the woods," offering stunning lake views, abundant wildlife, and the peace that only a remote forest setting can provide. If you're prepared for rustic conditions and equipped for the occasional natural challenge, this campsite promises an unforgettable and deeply satisfying wilderness escape in the heart of the Hiawatha National Forest.

Chicago Lake Dispersed Campsite

FR 2422, Wetmore, MI 49895, USA