Milakokia Lake Campground

For Michiganders who cherish the serenity of inland lakes and the authentic charm of rustic camping, Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground presents an idyllic Upper Peninsula getaway. Tucked away near Gould City, this small yet inviting campground offers a genuine connection with nature, providing a peaceful retreat on the shores of the beautiful Milakokia Lake. If you're seeking a quiet escape where fishing, paddling, and lakeside relaxation are the main attractions, this hidden gem is certainly worth exploring.

Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground isn't about flashy amenities or crowded activities; it's about embracing the simplicity and beauty of Michigan's natural landscape. We understand that local users in Michigan often look for detailed and honest insights into these more traditional camping spots. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what makes Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground a suitable and appealing choice for local campers, covering its location, the services it provides, its unique features, and why it remains a beloved spot for experiencing the tranquil side of the U.P.

Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground is situated in Gould City, MI 49838, USA. More specifically, it's located on the northeast side of Milakokia Lake, approximately 20 miles west of Naubinway via US-2 West, East Milakokia Lake Road, and Pike Lake Grade. This positioning places it within Mackinac County, a central part of Michigan's vast Upper Peninsula. While it boasts a secluded, rustic feel, it remains accessible for Michigan residents embarking on a U.P. adventure. The campground is split into two loops, with sites #1-11 generally to the right upon entry and sites #12-35 to the left; the latter are often more suitable for larger trailers. The access roads leading to the campground are typically well-maintained, ensuring a relatively smooth journey. Its location offers a sense of being truly away from it all, yet within a reasonable driving distance of other U.P. attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the region's natural wonders. The open season for the campground is notably long, often accessible even in early March, with the water pump still usable, indicating its readiness for early-bird and late-season campers.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground offers 35 rustic campsites, suitable for tents, small trailers, and even larger trailers (especially sites #12-35).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained vault toilets are available for campers' convenience.
• Potable Water from Hand-Pump Well: A hand-pump well provides access to potable (drinking) water, a crucial amenity for rustic camping.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, ideal for outdoor meals and campfires.
• No Electrical Hookups: As a rustic state forest campground, electrical hookups are not available at the campsites, requiring campers to be self-sufficient regarding power.
• No Reservations: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This allows for spontaneous trips, but arriving early during popular times is advisable.
• Affordable Overnight Fees: Camping fees are generally around $20 per night, making it an economical option for experiencing Michigan's state forests. A Michigan Recreation Passport is also required for vehicle entry.
• 15-Day Maximum Stay: Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum continuous stay, promoting availability for more visitors.
• On-site Information Kiosk: Registration procedures and fees are clearly posted at an information kiosk located at the campground entrance.
• Long Open Season: The campground is noted for its extended open season, often being accessible and with usable facilities (like the water pump) much earlier or later than some other campgrounds in the region.
• Trash Disposal: While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, state forest campgrounds typically have facilities for responsible trash disposal.

• Waterfront Sites and Views: A significant highlight is the availability of "several desirable waterfront sites" on Milakokia Lake, offering beautiful views and direct access to the water.
• Clean Lake for Swimming: The lake itself is described as "clean for swimming," with "great sandy beaches for all to enjoy," making it ideal for families and water enthusiasts.
• Excellent Kayaking and Fishing: Milakokia Lake provides great opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Anglers can expect to catch walleye, perch, and pike.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Many of the sites are "large and private," providing a sense of seclusion and ample space for campers, despite some sites being "a tad close together" in the off-season without foliage.
• Boat Launch: A public boat launch suitable for kayaks, canoes, and small watercraft is located on Milakokia Lake, offering easy access for water activities.
• Rustic Charm: The campground fully embraces a rustic atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a traditional camping experience away from developed amenities.
• Tranquil and Peaceful Ambiance: Visitors consistently describe the campground as "nice," "beautiful," and "peaceful," ideal for those looking to relax in a quiet natural setting.
• Proximity to Other Fishing Opportunities: South Manistique Lake, another popular fishing destination, is located just ten miles north, offering additional angling variety.
• Access to State Land for Hunting: The campground provides access to surrounding state land that is open to hunting, adhering to firearm hunting regulations regarding occupied dwellings.
• Winter Camping Potential: Although seasonal roads are not plowed, the campground is technically open year-round, offering opportunities for intrepid winter campers.

Address: Gould City, MI 49838, USA (specifically, East Milakokia Lake Road & Pike Lake Grade)

Phone: (906) 293-5900 (This number typically connects to the Michigan DNR field office, such as the Newberry Field Office or Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which manages state forest campgrounds in this region.)

Alternative Phone (sometimes listed for general DNR inquiries): (906) 635-5281

Mobile Phone: +1 906-293-5900

For Michigan residents, Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground offers an authentic and accessible Upper Peninsula camping experience that aligns perfectly with the desires of those who appreciate the state's natural treasures. Its suitability for locals stems from its combination of rustic charm, lakeside recreation, and peaceful atmosphere.

One of the most compelling reasons for Michiganders to choose Milakokia Lake is its beautiful setting directly on a clean, swimmable lake with sandy beaches. Access to inland lakes is a cherished part of Michigan's identity, and this campground provides ample opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and excellent fishing for walleye, perch, and pike. For families and water enthusiasts, this is a significant draw, offering endless hours of outdoor enjoyment right from their campsite.

The rustic nature of the campground, featuring vault toilets and a hand-pump well for water, appeals to those who prefer a simpler, more traditional camping experience. While some sites might feel "a tad close" when trees are bare, the general consensus is that most sites are "large and private," providing the desired seclusion once the leaves fill in. The long open season is also a major advantage for locals who enjoy extending their camping adventures into the early spring or late fall, experiencing the U.P. in different seasons.

Furthermore, the "first-come, first-served" policy, characteristic of many Michigan State Forest Campgrounds, offers flexibility for spontaneous trips, a feature highly valued by many local adventurers. The affordability of the sites also makes it an accessible option for various budgets, ensuring that a memorable lakeside camping experience is within reach for more Michiganders.

In essence, Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground provides a quintessential Upper Peninsula rustic camping experience. It's a place where you can disconnect from the everyday, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of a pristine lake, and enjoy classic outdoor activities like fishing and paddling. For any Michigan resident seeking a peaceful, beautiful, and authentic lakeside escape in the U.P., Milakokia Lake Campground stands as an excellent choice for creating cherished outdoor memories.

Milakokia Lake Campground

Gould City, MI 49838, USA