Monocle Lake Campground

Welcome to Monocle Lake Campground, a truly special destination nestled within the majestic Hiawatha National Forest in Michigan's captivating Upper Peninsula. This hidden gem, located near Brimley, offers a unique blend of tranquil natural beauty and convenient access to some of the UP's most iconic attractions. Known for its serene environment, exceptionally well-maintained grounds, and friendly camp hosts, Monocle Lake Campground provides an authentic rustic camping experience that allows visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Our mission at Monocle Lake Campground is to provide a clean, peaceful, and welcoming setting where campers can enjoy the natural splendor of Michigan. We pride ourselves on the spaciousness of our sites, ensuring a sense of privacy amidst the beautiful northern hardwood, aspen, red maple, and white birch trees. The glowing reviews from our past guests consistently highlight the dedication of our camp hosts, Larry and Becky, who go above and beyond to create a friendly atmosphere and ensure the facilities, including the vault toilets, are impeccably clean.

For Michigan residents, particularly those looking to explore the wonders of the Upper Peninsula, Monocle Lake Campground is an ideal choice. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, breathe in the crisp forest air, and experience the simple joys of camping in a truly pristine environment. We are committed to maintaining the natural integrity of the campground while providing essential comforts, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, and solo adventurers seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure in their home state.

Monocle Lake Campground is situated in Brimley, MI 49715, USA, specifically at the south end of 172-acre Monocle Lake within the Hiawatha National Forest. Its location in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers a secluded natural setting while still providing relatively easy access to key regional attractions and communities.

The campground is approximately 1/2 mile west of the Bay Mills Indian Community, accessible off Whitefish Bay National Scenic Byway (Lake Shore Drive), via Forest Road 3699. This route is typically well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for both RVs and tent campers. While offering a tranquil escape, Monocle Lake Campground is strategically positioned to allow convenient day trips to popular Upper Peninsula destinations.

For those traveling from across Michigan, the campground is a manageable drive once you cross the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula. Its proximity to Sault Ste. Marie, home to the famous Soo Locks (approximately 25 miles away), and the historic Point Iroquois Lighthouse (just 1 mile away) makes it an excellent base for sightseeing. Other notable attractions like Tahquamenon Falls are also within a reasonable driving distance (about 35 miles). While cell service (particularly Verizon) can be limited in some areas, this contributes to the disconnected, immersive outdoor experience many campers seek. The combination of serene natural surroundings and accessibility to major points of interest makes Monocle Lake Campground a highly desirable location for Michigan locals.

• Campsites: 39 individual campsites designed for both tent and RV camping (accommodating RVs up to 80 feet in length).
• Site Amenities: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post.
• Water Access: Accessible pressurized drinking water available from communal spigots conveniently spaced throughout the recreation area.
• Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available.
• Swimming Area: A designated swimming area at the south end of Monocle Lake with a clean, refreshing lake.
• Boat Launch: A boat ramp is available for launching non-motorized or electric motor watercraft (e.g., kayaks, canoes, paddleboards).
• Hiking Trails: Access to hiking trails, including the Monocle Lake Trail which connects to the North Country Trail and Mission Hill Trail.
• Garbage Disposal: Facilities for garbage disposal are provided, with an emphasis on "leave no trace" principles.
• Camp Hosts: On-site camp hosts (e.g., Larry and Becky, as noted in reviews) who maintain the grounds and assist campers.
• Reservations: Sites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance through Recreation.gov, with some sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash.

• Spacious and Well-Maintained Campsites: A consistent highlight from visitors, praising the large, wooded, and private sites that offer a true sense of seclusion.
• Exceptional Camp Hosts: Larry and Becky are frequently lauded in reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and dedication to keeping the campground clean and welcoming.
• Impeccably Clean Vault Toilets: Despite being vault toilets, they are consistently noted as being remarkably clean and well-maintained, often cleaned multiple times a day.
• Beautiful Inland Lake: Monocle Lake itself is a central feature, offering a quiet, clean, and beautiful body of water perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and non-motorized boating.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The lake is well-stocked with various fish species, including walleye, smallmouth bass, rock bass, pike, and yellow perch, making it a fantastic spot for anglers.
• Proximity to Major UP Attractions: Strategically located near the Soo Locks, Point Iroquois Lighthouse, and Tahquamenon Falls, making it an ideal base for exploring the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: Access to trails like the Monocle Lake Trail provides opportunities for peaceful walks and enjoying the natural forest surroundings.
• Quiet and Serene Atmosphere: The campground is praised for its peaceful environment, allowing for true relaxation and enjoyment of nature's sounds.
• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by a diverse forest, offering stunning views, especially during fall colors, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Address: Brimley, MI 49715, USA

Phone: (906) 428-5800

Mobile Phone: +1 906-428-5800

For residents across Michigan, particularly those eager to discover or revisit the unparalleled natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula, Monocle Lake Campground in Brimley stands out as an exceptional choice. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its unique blend of rustic charm, meticulous maintenance, and strategic location, offering an authentic outdoor experience without the need for excessive travel across state lines.

The campground's setting within the Hiawatha National Forest, on the shores of the picturesque Monocle Lake, provides an immediate escape into nature. For Michiganders seeking to truly disconnect, the spacious, wooded campsites offer privacy and a quiet atmosphere that allows for genuine relaxation. The lake itself is a focal point for recreation, providing excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing for various species, and enjoying non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. This accessibility to water-based activities right at your campsite is a significant draw for local families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the dedication of the camp hosts, consistently praised in customer reviews, ensures a welcoming and well-managed environment. The commitment to cleanliness, especially of facilities like the vault toilets, often exceeds expectations for a rustic campground, adding to the comfort of your stay. This attention to detail means you can focus on enjoying your time in nature, knowing the basics are well taken care of.

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons for Michigan locals to choose Monocle Lake Campground is its prime location as a base for exploring the rich history and natural wonders of the Eastern Upper Peninsula. Being just a mile from the historic Point Iroquois Lighthouse, a short drive from the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks, and within reasonable distance of the stunning Tahquamenon Falls, means you can combine your peaceful camping trip with enriching day excursions. It offers the quintessential Upper Peninsula experience, allowing you to create lasting memories with family and friends amidst Michigan’s breathtaking landscapes. For a truly authentic, well-cared-for, and strategically located Upper Peninsula camping adventure, Monocle Lake Campground is an undeniable hidden treasure for Michigan residents.

You can find a visual overview of the campground in this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fq07JLtd1g)

Monocle Lake Campground

Brimley, MI 49715, USA