Kingston Lake State Forest Campground

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Hello, Michigan outdoor lovers! Are you seeking a serene, rustic camping experience that truly allows you to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? Look no further than Kingston Lake State Forest Campground, tucked away near Shingleton. This beloved spot offers a tranquil escape with direct access to Kingston Lake, making it an ideal destination for those who cherish quiet mornings, peaceful paddling, and the iconic sounds of loons. If you're a Michigan local in search of a genuine, unplugged U.P. adventure, this hidden gem is certainly worth the journey.

Kingston Lake State Forest Campground is celebrated for its rustic charm and intimate atmosphere. With only 16 sites, it offers a peaceful retreat far removed from crowded, bustling campgrounds. What truly sets it apart is that "Fifteen sites are on the lake and the 16th is on a pond," providing nearly every camper with a beautiful water view. Reviewers consistently praise the "large, wooded sites" that are "suitable for tents or medium/large campers," ensuring comfort despite the rustic nature. The campground maintains a quiet ambiance, even when full, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the sounds of nature, including the "wonderful" calls of loons. This focus on tranquility and natural integration makes it a deeply satisfying destination for those seeking genuine relaxation.

For Michigan residents, Kingston Lake offers the perfect opportunity to truly "unplug" and escape the demands of modern life, as there is "No cell service," a feature many actively "enjoy." The lake itself is described as "large and clean" and "perfect for canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards," providing ample opportunities for water-based recreation. Anglers will appreciate that Kingston Lake is known for bluegill, pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye. While one review mentioned it "appears to be over fished," the Michigan DNR still lists it as a productive fishery, and the availability of a boat launch near the entrance makes getting on the water a breeze. Moreover, its prime location is "great for site seeing along the Pictured Rocks National Shoreline," positioning it as an excellent basecamp for exploring one of Michigan's most iconic natural treasures. This blend of serene lakeside camping with access to major U.P. attractions makes Kingston Lake State Forest Campground an exceptionally suitable and rewarding choice for locals.

Kingston Lake State Forest Campground is officially located at Kingston Lake Campground, Shingleton, MI 49884, USA. More specifically, it's situated on the shore of Kingston Lake in Alger County, approximately 33 miles northwest of Newberry and 18.8 miles southeast of Grand Marais via H-58. This location places it deep within Michigan's majestic Upper Peninsula, ensuring a truly natural and remote experience.

Accessing Kingston Lake State Forest Campground requires careful navigation, as hinted by a significant user review. While the address leads to the general area, some GPS systems, like Google Maps, have been reported to direct visitors down unsuitable "two-track" roads, such as Baker Grade, which are "absolutely unsuitable for towing our camper" due to sand and narrowness. The "longest 3.5 miles" driven down such a path resulted in damage for one camper. Therefore, it is highly recommended to follow established signs for State Forest Campgrounds and consult reliable Michigan DNR maps or local directions, rather than solely relying on GPS for the final approach, especially when towing a trailer or RV. The main access road, likely H-58, is generally paved, but the final approach to the campground may involve gravel or unpaved sections.

Despite the potential for tricky final approach roads, the campground's overall location is excellent for exploring the wider region. It serves as a fantastic base for venturing out to the world-renowned Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which is a short drive away. Additionally, a 4-mile hiking trail (part of the Fox River Pathway) leads directly from the campground to the shores of Lake Superior, offering a rewarding day trip opportunity. The presence of a boat launch within the campground makes it easy to get out on Kingston Lake for fishing or paddling. This blend of secluded natural beauty with proximity to major U.P. attractions ensures that campers can enjoy both tranquil relaxation and exciting outdoor adventures.

Services Offered (As a Michigan State Forest Campground):

• Rustic Campsites: Offers 16 large, wooded sites suitable for tents or medium/large campers (RVs up to 40 feet in length are noted in some sources).
• Waterfront Sites: Fifteen sites are directly on Kingston Lake, and the 16th is on a pond, providing picturesque views and easy water access.
• Potable Water: Available via a hand-pump well, though it may have a high iron content (orange appearance).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained outhouse-style bathrooms are available.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring.
• Boat Launch: A convenient boat launch and picnic area are located near the campground entrance for easy water access.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are available without reservations, operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
• No Cell Service: Offers a true "unplugged" experience, appreciated by those seeking to disconnect.
• Year-Round Accessibility: The campground is open all year, though seasonal roads are not plowed in winter.
• Self-Registration: Fees (typically $20 per night, plus a Michigan Recreation Passport) and registration procedures are posted at an information kiosk.

Features / Highlights:

• Rustic Charm & Tranquil Setting: Provides a peaceful and quiet escape, ideal for relaxation and connecting with nature.
• Direct Lake Access: Most sites are on Kingston Lake, perfect for water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Excellent Fishing: Kingston Lake is stocked with muskie, bluegill, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye.
• Proximity to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: An excellent base camp for exploring this iconic U.P. natural wonder.
• Fox River Pathway Access: A 4-mile hiking trail from the campground leads directly to Lake Superior, connecting to a larger trail system.
• Spacious & Wooded Sites: Offers large, private sites amidst beautiful trees, ensuring comfort and privacy.
• Loons & Wildlife: Opportunities to hear and potentially see loons and other local wildlife.
• Unplugged Experience: Lack of cell service promotes a true digital detox.
• Boat Launch & Picnic Area: Convenient amenities for water recreation and day use.
• Stargazing Potential: Low light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing.

Contact Information:

Address: Kingston Lake Campground, Shingleton, MI 49884, USA

Phone: (906) 341-2355

Mobile Phone: +1 906-341-2355

For Michigan locals, Kingston Lake State Forest Campground represents a true piece of U.P. paradise, perfectly suited for those seeking a break from their busy lives. Its rustic nature and commitment to maintaining a quiet, secluded environment make it an ideal choice for a genuine outdoor escape. The opportunity to camp directly on Kingston Lake, with nearly every site offering a water view, provides endless possibilities for peaceful paddling, excellent fishing, and simply enjoying the serene beauty of the water. The wonderful calls of the loons add to the authentic U.P. ambiance, creating lasting memories.

While access roads might require a bit of caution, the reward is a tranquil haven that is conveniently located to explore the magnificent Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The ability to hike directly to Lake Superior from the campground, or to simply enjoy being unplugged without cell service, underscores its suitability for locals looking to truly de-stress and reconnect with nature. With its spacious sites, basic yet clean amenities, and a focus on unspoiled natural beauty, Kingston Lake State Forest Campground offers an accessible and deeply rewarding experience, cementing its place as a cherished destination for any Michigander yearning for an authentic Upper Peninsula camping adventure.

Kingston Lake State Forest Campground

Kingston Lake Campground, Shingleton, MI 49884, USA