Courtney Lake Campground

For Michiganders seeking a truly peaceful and versatile outdoor escape, Courtney Lake Campground near Mass City offers an inviting haven within the expansive Ottawa National Forest. This hidden gem, known for its tranquil atmosphere and spacious sites, caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, from those looking for a quiet retreat to equestrian campers ready to explore miles of scenic trails. It’s a place where the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure.

Courtney Lake Campground has garnered consistent praise from visitors who appreciate its calm ambiance and well-maintained facilities. As one satisfied camper noted, "The sites are large, clean, and quiet," perfectly capturing the essence of this serene locale. Another reviewer highlighted its appeal for equestrian enthusiasts, stating, "Drove up to the lake to checkout the 6 camp sites setup for horses. Looked really nice, so our brother & sister-in-law are planning a camp trip with their horse in the next month or so." This speaks to the campground's unique offerings and its reputation as a welcoming spot for those with equine companions.

More than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV, Courtney Lake Campground is a gateway to diverse outdoor activities. Whether you’re hoping to reel in some trout from the 33-acre lake, explore the 2.2-mile Circle of Life Trail, or embark on a horseback riding adventure, there's something here for everyone. While one review mentioned not catching any fish, the lake is known for its trout, offering ample opportunity for anglers. Its location within the vast Ottawa National Forest ensures abundant opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of Michigan's wilderness. This article will delve into what makes Courtney Lake Campground an ideal choice for locals seeking a fulfilling and peaceful outdoor experience.

Location and Accessibility

Courtney Lake Campground is beautifully situated in Ontonagon County, within the northeast portion of Michigan's Ottawa National Forest, approximately 22 miles southeast of Ontonagon and near the community of Mass City. The physical address is Mass City, MI 49948, USA. This location places it amidst vast woodlands and close to the serene Courtney Lake itself.

Access to Courtney Lake Campground is generally straightforward. From Ontonagon, travelers can head east on M-38 for about 21 miles, then turn right (south) onto Forest Road (FR) 1960 and proceed for 1 mile to reach the campground. If coming from Mass City, travel 8 miles east on M-38 to FR 1960, then turn right (south) and go 1 mile. From Baraga, travel approximately 20 miles west on M-38 to FR 1960 and turn left for 1 mile. Notably, the access road off the highway is paved, a welcome feature compared to some other national forest campgrounds, as one review pointed out.

While the campground offers a sense of being "out of the way" and "very private," as noted by visitors, it remains easily reachable for Michiganders seeking a tranquil escape. Cell phone service can be spotty at best in this area, so it's advisable to download maps or bring physical copies for navigation. The proximity to Mass City provides limited local services like a gas station and a bar, while Ontonagon, a slightly larger community, offers more amenities within a reasonable driving distance.

Services Offered

Courtney Lake Campground provides a range of services and facilities designed to offer a comfortable and authentic camping experience within the rustic setting of the Ottawa National Forest. With a focus on basic amenities, it caters to various camping styles, including a notable emphasis on equestrian camping.

• Campsites: The campground features a single loop with 21 spacious sites. These sites can accommodate tents, trailers, or larger motor homes. Importantly, there are 6 dedicated equestrian sites, with all 6 having high lines and 3 also featuring a corral, making it one of the Ottawa National Forest's only campgrounds specifically designed for horse camping. Two "walk-in" sites are also available for tent campers seeking a more secluded experience. Sites are naturally spaced for privacy and each comes with a wooden picnic table, fire ring, lantern post, and parking spur.
• Restrooms: Two sets of vault toilets are conveniently located within the campground loop, including an accessible vault toilet near site #5, providing essential restroom facilities.
• Potable Water: Two pressurized faucets are available within the camping loop, providing potable drinking water for campers. Note that attaching a hose directly to these faucets for filling RV tanks is generally not permitted.
• Boat Landing: Adjacent to the campground is a boat landing with a concrete base, providing easy access to Courtney Lake for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Trailer parking is also available, and there is no charge to launch boats.
• Picnic Area and Sandy Beach: A day-use picnic area is located adjacent to the campground, ideal for families and small groups. This area also adjoins a sandy beach on Courtney Lake, perfect for swimming and enjoying the waterfront. Pets are generally not allowed on the beach itself but are welcome at the boat launch area.
• Equestrian Facilities: In addition to the dedicated equestrian campsites with high lines and corrals, there is a hitching post at the campground restroom. Horse waste cleanup is currently "pack it in, pack it out." Plans are in place to install a hitching rail at the nearby Rousseau Bar, and potentially develop an equestrian/OHV campground on state lands across M-38.
• No Reservations: Currently, sites at Courtney Lake Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. This allows for spontaneous trips but advises early arrival during peak times.
• Fees: The current nightly fee is $14, with a discounted rate of $7 per day for Senior Pass holders, making it a very reasonable option.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome in the campground but must be kept on a leash (typically a 6-foot maximum) and are not allowed on the beach.

Features / Highlights

• Unique Equestrian Camping: Courtney Lake Campground is one of the very few locations in the Ottawa National Forest offering dedicated equestrian campsites, complete with high lines and corrals. This makes it a premier destination for Michiganders who enjoy horse camping and trail riding.
• Extensive Equestrian Trails: Adjacent to the campground is access to the Courtney Lake Equestrian Trail system, offering approximately 14 miles of riding on Forest roads with a sandy surface. These trails wind through diverse forest landscapes of hardwoods, pines, and mixed foliage.
• Spacious and Secluded Sites: Visitors consistently praise the "large, clean, and quiet" campsites, often screened by natural vegetation, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility. Some sites even offer waterfront views.
• Excellent Trout Fishing: Courtney Lake is a 33-acre lake known for providing "great trout fishing," making it an attractive destination for anglers seeking a relaxing day on the water. A boat landing facilitates easy access.
• The Circle of Life Trail: A 2.2-mile interpretive trail with a bog viewing platform adjoins the campground, offering an accessible and engaging hike. Trailheads are located near campsite #7 and across from the beach/day-use area parking.
• Sandy Beach and Day Use Area: A beautiful sandy beach on Courtney Lake offers a refreshing spot for swimming and sunbathing, complemented by a picnic area for day visitors and campers alike.
• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Reviews frequently highlight the very quiet and relaxing environment, especially during weekdays, making it an ideal spot to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle.
• Accessible Features: The campground includes accessible picnic tables and an accessible vault toilet, and the Circle of Life Trail is designed to be fairly level and accessible for motorized wheelchairs, demonstrating inclusivity.
• Proximity to Winter Recreation: The Old Grade Ski Trail (4.2 miles, groomed) is located on Courtney Lake, offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in the winter, extending the recreational season.
• Paved Access Road: Unlike some more remote national forest campgrounds, the paved access road off M-38 provides easier and smoother travel to the campground, even for larger RVs.

Contact Information

For detailed information, current conditions, or specific questions about Courtney Lake Campground, please contact the managing district of the Ottawa National Forest:

Watersmeet/Iron River Ranger District (USDA Forest Service)

Address: E23979 US 2 East, Watersmeet, MI 49969, USA

Phone: (906) 358-4551

General Ottawa National Forest information: (906) 884-2085 (primary for Ontonagon Ranger District related inquiries).

Mobile Phone: +1 906-884-2085 (This number is often associated with the Ontonagon Ranger District as well).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michigan residents, Courtney Lake Campground in Mass City is an exceptionally suitable and highly appealing destination, offering a unique blend of tranquility, specific recreational opportunities, and local accessibility within their home state. Its diverse offerings make it a compelling choice for various types of outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, the campground's reputation for being "quiet and relaxing" with "large, clean, and quiet" sites provides a much-needed escape for Michiganders seeking peace from their daily routines. This serene environment is ideal for unwinding, allowing locals to truly disconnect and recharge amidst the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

Secondly, Courtney Lake Campground stands out for its dedicated equestrian camping facilities and direct access to the Courtney Lake Equestrian Trails. For Michigan's horse-owning community, this is an invaluable resource, offering specialized amenities and miles of scenic trails right at their doorstep. This niche offering within the state makes it a significant draw for a dedicated segment of outdoor lovers.

Furthermore, the opportunity for trout fishing on Courtney Lake, combined with a convenient boat landing and a pleasant sandy beach, caters to popular Michigan outdoor pastimes. Whether it's a family looking for a safe swimming spot or an angler hoping for a good catch, the lake provides ample recreation. The reasonable daily fees, especially with a Senior Pass, make it an affordable option for regular weekend getaways or longer vacations, allowing locals to maximize their enjoyment of Michigan's public lands.

In essence, Courtney Lake Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's a testament to the diverse and accessible outdoor experiences available in Michigan. It offers a unique combination of quiet solitude, specialized equestrian amenities, and classic lake recreation, making it an ideal and cherished retreat for Michiganders seeking an authentic and fulfilling connection with their state's natural wonders. The fact that it is within the vast Ottawa National Forest also provides access to even more regional activities and exploration.

You can get a visual overview of Courtney Lake National Forest Campground, including its equestrian sites, by watching this (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ihJDWkvt4vI) video.

Courtney Lake Campground

Mass City, MI 49948, USA