Colwell Lake Campground

For Michigan residents seeking the quintessential Up North experience, look no further than Colwell Lake Campground. Nestled deep within the magnificent Hiawatha National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a cherished destination where generations of families have created lasting memories. With its serene lakefront setting, ample recreational opportunities, and a commitment to providing a welcoming environment, Colwell Lake Campground stands out as a premier choice for outdoor enthusiasts across the state.

The allure of Colwell Lake is undeniable. Its 145-acre expanse provides a natural playground for swimming, fishing, and boating, while the surrounding forest offers a tranquil backdrop for hiking and wildlife viewing. This campground embodies the spirit of Michigan's wild beauty, combining rustic charm with convenient amenities designed to enhance your stay. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking to introduce your family to the joys of the outdoors, Colwell Lake Campground promises an authentic and unforgettable Michigan adventure. Its reputation as a beloved spot is well-earned, with visitors consistently praising its spacious sites, pristine surroundings, and the friendly, well-maintained atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a homecoming.

Colwell Lake Campground is conveniently located in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, specifically in Manistique, MI 49854, USA. This prime location places it squarely within the Hiawatha National Forest, a vast expanse of natural beauty renowned for its diverse ecosystems and recreational offerings. The campground is situated on the eastern shore of Colwell Lake, providing immediate access to its clear waters and picturesque views.

Accessing Colwell Lake Campground is relatively straightforward for most vehicles. While the primary roads leading to the area are well-maintained, visitors should be mindful of potential potholes on the final stretch of the access road, as noted by enthusiastic past campers. Despite its somewhat secluded feel, the campground is not far from local amenities in Manistique, ensuring that supplies and services are within reasonable reach if needed. The journey into the Hiawatha National Forest sets the tone for your outdoor adventure, with scenic drives through dense forests. It's a location that feels remote enough to truly disconnect, yet remains accessible for a comfortable family camping trip.

• Campsites: Colwell Lake Campground boasts a variety of spacious sites, accommodating both tents and recreational vehicles. There are 35 individual family sites, with some offering electric hook-ups (a $4.00 per night electrical hookup fee applies to electric sites). Additionally, there are a few "walk-to" tent-only sites and a group site capable of holding up to 24 people, perfect for larger gatherings.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, complete with a grill grate, allowing for enjoyable outdoor meals and cozy campfires.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are conveniently spaced throughout the campground, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met.

• Drinking Water: Water hydrants are located throughout the facility, providing access to potable drinking water.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs, with no extra charge, allowing campers to easily manage their waste.

• Boat Launch: A boat ramp and launching pier are provided near the campground entrance, making it easy to get your watercraft onto Colwell Lake.

• Day Use Area: Colwell Lake also offers a large day-use area with parking, a picnic ground adjacent to the sandy swimming beach, and pedestal grills and tables for individual families or small groups.

• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: While many sites can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov, some sites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.

• Firewood: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, though it's always recommended to purchase local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.

• Excellent Swimming Beach: Colwell Lake is celebrated for its very large, sandy swimming beach, a major draw for families. Sand mats connected to the shoreline trail provide accessible access to the beach for those with mobility impairments.

• Abundant Fishing Opportunities: The 145-acre Colwell Lake is a fantastic spot for anglers, with a variety of fish species including Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Crappie, Pumpkinseed Sunfish, Perch, and Bluegill. An accessible fishing pier is also available for all to use.

• Scenic Hiking Trail: A leisurely 2.25-mile (often referred to as 2-mile) walking trail circles the lake. This mostly flat and easy walk is perfect for all ages and skill levels, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forest. It's also suitable for snowshoeing in the winter.

• Spacious and Private Sites: Campers consistently praise the large sites at Colwell Lake Campground, many of which offer ample space and natural tree barriers between them, ensuring a sense of privacy and seclusion.

• Direct Lake Access: Many campsites boast direct access to Colwell Lake, providing campers with their own pathways to the water for swimming, fishing, or launching kayaks and canoes. Even sites not directly on the lake have easy access via well-maintained paths.

• Friendly and Dedicated Camp Hosts: Numerous reviews highlight the exceptional quality of the camp hosts, who are known for their friendliness, helpfulness, and diligence in keeping the campground and facilities, particularly the vault toilets, remarkably clean.

• Proximity to Upper Peninsula Attractions: Colwell Lake Campground serves as an excellent base camp for exploring other iconic Upper Peninsula attractions, including Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, and Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring), all within a reasonable driving distance.

• ADA Compliant Renovations: Renovated in 1993, the area meets most current Americans with Disabilities Act Guidelines, making it more inclusive for all visitors.

Address: Manistique, MI 49854, USA

Phone: (906) 428-5800

For reservations, it is recommended to visit Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

For Michigan residents, Colwell Lake Campground is more than just a camping spot; it's a beloved tradition and an easily accessible haven for disconnecting and enjoying the state's unparalleled natural beauty. The numerous heartfelt testimonials from long-time visitors, who recall spending summers here since childhood, underscore its deep-rooted appeal within the local community. This is a place where family memories are forged, friendships are celebrated, and the simple joys of outdoor life are fully embraced.

Its location within the Hiawatha National Forest means that locals have immediate access to a vast natural playground without needing to travel across the country. The spacious, private campsites, many with direct lake access, offer a superior camping experience compared to more crowded alternatives. The well-maintained facilities, from the surprisingly clean vault toilets to the convenient dump station and water hydrants, ensure a comfortable stay even in a rustic setting. The clear, sandy swimming beach is a huge draw for families, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children and adults alike.

Furthermore, the accessible 2.25-mile walking trail around Colwell Lake provides an excellent, low-impact way for Michiganders of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy the scenery and get some fresh air. The fantastic fishing opportunities mean locals can pursue their passion for angling just steps from their tent or RV. While cell service might be spotty, this is often seen as a blessing by those seeking a true digital detox. Colwell Lake Campground represents the very best of Michigan camping – a place where the grandeur of the Upper Peninsula meets thoughtful amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal, recurring destination for any Michigan family or individual seeking a genuine connection with nature.

Colwell Lake Campground

Manistique, MI 49854, USA