Cusino Lake State Forest Campground

For Michigan residents yearning to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the raw, untouched beauty of the Upper Peninsula, Cusino Lake State Forest Campground offers an unparalleled rustic camping experience. Tucked away near Shingleton, this secluded gem provides a tranquil retreat where the sounds of nature prevail and the star-filled night sky puts on a breathtaking show. If your ideal getaway involves quiet contemplation, incredible fishing, and a deep connection with the outdoors, Cusino Lake is a destination not to be missed.

Cusino Lake State Forest Campground embodies the very essence of Michigan's state forest camping system: a focus on natural settings, minimal development, and a true sense of peaceful isolation. It's a place where you can truly unplug – there’s no cell service here – and allow the stresses of modern life to melt away. With only six sites, all nestled directly on the lake, the campground promises an intimate and uncrowded experience, making it perfect for anglers, paddlers, or anyone seeking profound serenity.

While the journey to Cusino Lake adds to its secluded charm, the rewards are immense. This article will guide Michigan locals through everything they need to know about planning a trip to this unique campground, from its location and accessibility to the standout features and activities that make it such a beloved spot for those in the know.

Cusino Lake State Forest Campground is located near Shingleton, MI 49884, USA, specifically on the shore of Cusino Lake, a 140-acre body of water known for its fishing. While the address lists Shingleton, it's important to note that the campground is situated approximately 24 miles northeast of Shingleton, nestled deep within the state forest lands of the Upper Peninsula.

Accessing the campground requires navigating a long dirt road, which some visitors have described as having "lots of washouts" and "puddles and sand." While a car might make it "by the grace of God," a truck or jeep is highly recommended for a smoother and less stressful journey. The challenging road contributes to the campground's secluded and empty feel, ensuring that those who make the effort are rewarded with exceptional tranquility. It's always wise to check road conditions, especially after heavy rains, and plan your arrival during daylight hours.

Despite its remote feel, Cusino Lake State Forest Campground is conveniently less than 10 miles from the majestic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This proximity makes it an excellent basecamp for exploring the area's famous sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails, offering a blend of rustic camping and access to major natural attractions.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground features six rustic campsites, all of which are situated directly on Cusino Lake. These sites are designed for tent camping and smaller trailers or pop-up campers, offering a more traditional and immersive outdoor experience.

• Vault Toilets: Cusino Lake State Forest Campground boasts remarkably clean and well-maintained vault toilets. This attention to cleanliness, often praised by visitors as "the cleanest, least smelly, best maintained bathroom," is a significant comfort in a rustic setting.

• Hand-Pump Well for Water: Potable (drinking) water is available from a hand-pump well on-site. While convenient, some campers note the water can be sandy, so bringing bottled water for drinking or a filter system is advisable for personal preference.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings with Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a new fire ring, often including a grill grate. These amenities are essential for cooking over an open fire and enjoying meals outdoors.

• No Reservations: Sites at Cusino Lake State Forest Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means there's no need for advance booking, but it's recommended to arrive early, especially during popular times, to secure a desirable lakeside spot.

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The campground is set on a "beautiful lake" with all six sites offering direct water access and sandy entry points, perfect for kayaks and canoes. The gorgeous views and serene waters create an incredibly peaceful environment.

• Exceptional Peace and Emptiness: A major highlight is the profound sense of peace and solitude. Visitors frequently report being the "only people camping all weekend," underscoring its emptiness and quietude, which is highly sought after by those looking to truly get away from it all.

• Amazing Fishing: Cusino Lake is renowned for its fishing opportunities, with Muskie, Perch, and Largemouth Bass being commonly caught species. Anglers can enjoy fishing directly from their campsite's shoreline or exploring the lake by canoe or kayak.

• Incredibly Clean Vault Toilets: This unexpected but highly appreciated feature sets Cusino Lake apart from many other rustic campgrounds. The dedication of the park's caretaker, affectionately dubbed "Ranger Rick" by one reviewer, ensures a surprisingly pleasant experience even with basic facilities.

• Direct Water Access for Paddling: With sandy entry points at each site, launching kayaks and canoes is convenient, allowing campers to easily explore Cusino Lake's waters for paddling and fishing.

• No Cell Service: For those seeking a complete digital detox, the "zero cell service" at Cusino Lake is a blessing. It allows for full immersion in nature, free from the distractions of calls, texts, and social media, promoting a truly relaxing and focused outdoor experience.

• Stargazing and Silence: The remote location and lack of light pollution mean the nights at Cusino Lake are filled with "the stars and the silence." This provides an incredible opportunity for stargazing and experiencing the profound quiet of the northern Michigan wilderness.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is welcoming to pets, allowing Michigan residents to bring their furry companions to enjoy the tranquility and outdoor adventures. Responsible pet ownership, including leashing and cleaning up, is expected to maintain the peaceful environment.

• Wildlife Viewing and ORV Access: The surrounding state forest land provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, hunting, and access to ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) and snowmobile trails (Trail 8 can be accessed via county roads from the campground), offering diverse recreational options.

For more details or inquiries about Cusino Lake State Forest Campground, you can reach them at:

Address: Shingleton, MI 49884, USA

Phone: (906) 341-2355

Mobile Phone: +1 906-341-2355

Cusino Lake State Forest Campground is an ideal destination for Michigan locals who truly value a rustic, quiet, and unspoiled outdoor experience. Its secluded location, though requiring a bit more adventurous travel, is precisely what guarantees its peaceful atmosphere and limited crowds. For those seeking to escape the constant connectivity of modern life, the complete absence of cell service offers a rare opportunity to fully disconnect and embrace the serenity of nature.

The campground's highlights, from the consistently clean vault toilets – a testament to dedicated care – to the fantastic fishing opportunities for Muskie and Perch, make it a standout among state forest campgrounds. The availability of all six sites directly on the water, with sandy entry points for kayaks and canoes, provides unparalleled access to Cusino Lake's beauty. Whether it's a quiet weekend fishing trip, a chance to immerse in the stunning night sky, or a base for exploring the nearby Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Cusino Lake offers a uniquely Michigan experience.

This is not a destination for those seeking luxurious amenities or bustling social scenes. Instead, it is perfectly suited for locals who appreciate the simplicity of nature, the challenge of a more rugged adventure, and the profound peace that comes from truly unplugging in the heart of Michigan’s magnificent Upper Peninsula. It’s a place to leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures, and rediscover the wild spirit of your home state.

To get a better visual understanding of what to expect, you can watch this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdhjTUJ4kYE) video.

Cusino Lake State Forest Campground

Shingleton, MI 49884, USA