Emily Lake State Forest Campground

emily lake campground

For Michigan residents seeking a genuine and peaceful immersion in the state's beautiful wilderness, Emily Lake State Forest Campground in Toivola offers an ideal setting. Nestled by the picturesque Emily Lake in Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula, this rustic campground provides a refreshing escape from the daily grind. If your idea of a perfect outdoor getaway involves clean facilities, excellent fishing, serene lake views, and ample space to spread out, then Emily Lake State Forest Campground is a destination that promises a truly rewarding experience right here in your home state.

Michigan’s State Forest Campgrounds are well-regarded for their ability to deliver authentic, less-commercialized camping experiences, and Emily Lake is a shining example. It caters to those who appreciate simplicity and a direct connection with nature, offering a peaceful alternative to busier, more developed sites. While it provides a rustic setting, visitors consistently praise its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay despite the natural environment. This comprehensive guide will furnish Michigan locals with all the necessary details to plan an enjoyable and memorable visit to this charming lakeside campground.

What truly sets Emily Lake State Forest Campground apart is its balance of rustic charm with thoughtful amenities, making it surprisingly versatile. Whether you're a solo angler, a couple seeking quiet solitude, or a larger group looking for a spacious basecamp, the layout and features of this campground are designed to enhance your outdoor adventure in the heart of the Upper Peninsula.

Emily Lake State Forest Campground is conveniently located in Toivola, Michigan, a community situated in Houghton County within the western part of Michigan's stunning Upper Peninsula. The address, Toivola, MI 49965, USA, places it within a region celebrated for its pristine forests, numerous lakes, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Its position on the southern shore of the 54-acre Emily Lake provides picturesque views and direct water access, a highly desirable feature for any Michigan outdoor enthusiast.

Accessing Emily Lake State Forest Campground is straightforward for Michigan residents. It is located approximately 3.8 miles south of Twin Lakes via M-26 South and Emily Lake Road. For those traveling from M-38, it is generally recommended to travel via highway to M-26 to Emily Lake Road to avoid excessive gravel road travel, as some GPS routes might suggest shorter, unpaved alternatives. Emily Lake Road itself is paved for the first half-mile and then becomes gravel leading to the campground entrance on the left, ensuring manageable access for tents and small trailers. It is also just 22 miles south of the City of Houghton, making it accessible while still offering a sense of seclusion.

The campground’s location also boasts proximity to the Bill Nicholls Trail, a significant multi-use trail spanning 41 miles, further enhancing its appeal for hikers, bikers, and other trail enthusiasts. This balance of being nestled in nature yet conveniently reachable from major routes and nearby towns makes Emily Lake State Forest Campground an excellent choice for Michigan locals seeking both tranquility and recreational opportunities.

• Nine rustic campsites suitable for tents and small trailers.
• Each campsite features a parking spur, a sturdy picnic table, and a campfire ring with a grill for cooking.
• Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available, noted by reviewers for being exceptionally clean with hand sanitizer and extra toilet paper.
• Potable (drinking) water is accessible from a centrally located hand-pump well. (Note: Hand pumps may be shut off during colder months; confirmation with DNR is advisable for off-season visits).
• Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. This allows for spontaneous trips but suggests arriving early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
• Specific sites (1+2 and 3+4) are noted as "best sites for groups," providing more space for larger gatherings.
• Sites 6, 7, 8, and 9 offer ample room to "spread out," with sites 6, 8, and 9 providing access to the weedy shore of the lake. Site 7 has a slightly longer trail to the lake.
• Two large wood pegs are provided in the bathrooms for hanging clothing or backpacks.
• A boat launch is available within the campground for easy access to Emily Lake.
• Overnight fees are posted at the information kiosk, and a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry.
• Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay.
• One camping unit and up to six people are generally allowed per site (though some sources mention 8 people and 4 vehicles for Chequamegon-Nicolet's Emily Lake Recreation Area, for Michigan's Emily Lake SFCG, the standard Michigan DNR rule applies, which is typically 1 unit/6 people).
• No electrical hookups are available, emphasizing the rustic camping experience.

• Picturesque Emily Lake Views: The campground is shaded by conifers and hemlocks and offers beautiful views of Emily Lake, creating a serene and scenic backdrop for your camping experience.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Emily Lake is well-regarded for fishing, with a variety of species including Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Rainbow Trout, and Perch. The campground includes a convenient boat launch for easy lake access.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the campground, especially the vault toilets, which are noted for being well-stocked and tidy.
• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers highlight that many sites, particularly 6, 7, 8, and 9, offer ample room to "spread out," which is ideal for comfort and privacy. Sites 1+2 and 3+4 are recommended for larger groups.
• Hammock-Friendly Trees: Site 7 is specifically mentioned as having "3 trees that make hammock hanging nice," a small but significant detail for those who enjoy relaxing in a hammock.
• Proximity to Bill Nicholls Trail: The campground’s location near the 41-mile Bill Nicholls Trail provides extensive opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the Upper Peninsula's natural landscape.
• Natural Beauty & Tranquility: The rustic nature of the campground, coupled with its lakeside setting, ensures a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to disconnect and unwind amidst nature.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forested setting and lake environment offer chances to observe local wildlife, including deer (as one reviewer noted seeing them close to their site) and various bird species.
• Stargazing Potential: With minimal light pollution in this Upper Peninsula location, clear nights often provide spectacular opportunities for stargazing.
• Nearby Local Amenities: While rustic, the campground is not entirely isolated. Krupps Mini Market is mentioned for "best pasties," suggesting a nearby spot for local treats and basic supplies. Twin Lakes State Park is also nearby for additional day-use recreation.

Emily Lake State Forest Campground

Address: Toivola, MI 49965, USA

Phone: (906) 288-3321

Mobile Phone: +1 906-288-3321

This phone number typically connects to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office responsible for managing this state forest campground, likely the Baraga State Park management unit or a local DNR field office. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding campground conditions, seasonal operations (e.g., water pump availability), current fees, or any alerts, it is highly recommended that Michigan residents call this number or visit the official Michigan DNR website for State Forest Campgrounds. As sites are first-come, first-served, direct contact can provide valuable insights into potential crowd levels during peak seasons.

For Michigan residents, Emily Lake State Forest Campground offers an outstanding opportunity to experience the pristine beauty and tranquility of the Upper Peninsula without venturing far from home. Its suitability for locals stems from its commitment to providing a clean, accessible, and genuinely rustic camping experience, tailored for those who appreciate the simpler joys of outdoor life.

One of the most compelling reasons for Michiganders to visit is the campground's unique balance of rustic charm and impressive cleanliness. Reviewers consistently highlight the very clean and well-maintained bathrooms, a significant plus for any rustic site. This attention to detail ensures a comfortable stay, even without electrical hookups. The availability of a hand-pump well for potable water further enhances the traditional camping feel while providing an essential amenity.

Furthermore, the campground’s setting on Emily Lake, complete with a boat launch and excellent fishing opportunities for bass, bluegill, trout, and perch, makes it a prime destination for water enthusiasts. While swimming might be limited due to weedy shores, the joy of paddling, fishing, or simply enjoying the serene lakeside views remains paramount. The proximity to the Bill Nicholls Trail also opens up a world of hiking and biking adventures, allowing locals to explore more of Michigan’s vast state forest lands.

The campground's design, with specific sites ideal for groups and others providing ample space to "spread out," caters to a variety of camping preferences, ensuring everyone can find their perfect spot. And for those small but delightful local touches, the mention of "best pasties at Krupps Mini Market" adds a charming reminder of the unique culture and community found in the U.P. Emily Lake State Forest Campground truly offers Michigan locals a chance to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and rediscover the profound beauty that defines our home state.

Emily Lake State Forest Campground

Toivola, MI 49965, USA