Round Lake State Forest Campground

For Michiganders who cherish the true, quiet essence of "Up North" camping, Round Lake State Forest Campground is a destination that feels like a well-kept secret. This is a place where the sound of the wind through the tall, majestic pines replaces the noise of daily life. As a state forest campground, it offers a more rustic and secluded experience than many state parks, making it perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and find a peaceful retreat. It’s situated on the shores of Round Lake, a small, natural lake that provides a serene setting for a variety of outdoor activities. The reviews from real visitors consistently highlight the campground’s tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of its natural surroundings. One camper noted that it is a "quiet campground with majestic pines and a peaceful natural lake," while another appreciated the "beautiful area" and the abundance of "wildlife too see." This emphasis on peace and nature is what makes Round Lake State Forest Campground a cherished destination for those who want to truly get away from it all and immerse themselves in the quiet rhythms of the Michigan wilderness. It's a testament to the fact that you don't need a lot of frills to have an incredible outdoor adventure; you just need a beautiful location and a willingness to embrace the simple life.

Round Lake State Forest Campground is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. It caters to campers who are looking for a back-to-basics experience while still providing essential amenities. The campground offers both tent sites and spaces for RVs. While it provides RV water hookups, it’s important for campers to be aware that the overall feel is rustic, not a full-service RV park. Each site comes equipped with picnic tables and a fire ring, making it easy to enjoy meals and campfires under the stars. The availability of running water and public toilets ensures a comfortable stay, even in this secluded environment. This is a place that truly encourages you to spend your time outdoors, and the opportunities for recreation are plentiful. The campground is praised for being "good for kids" and offering "kid-friendly hikes," making it a perfect spot for families to explore and learn about the environment together. The beautiful, spacious camping spots with "beautiful views" are a consistent highlight in reviews, giving campers a sense of privacy and space that is often hard to find. The lake itself is another major draw, with its sandy beach area providing a great spot for swimming. As one reviewer mentioned, you can get out on the kayaks and it's "beautiful and quiet." The combination of a peaceful atmosphere, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and access to a variety of activities makes Round Lake State Forest Campground a well-rounded and appealing choice for any local camper.

This campground’s focus on the natural environment and a peaceful atmosphere is what makes it so special. It's an excellent choice for a restful getaway and a chance to truly connect with the unparalleled beauty of Northern Michigan.

Round Lake State Forest Campground is located on E Round Lake Rd, Vanderbilt, MI 49795, USA. This address places it in a prime location within Michigan's Pigeon River Country State Forest, a beautiful and remote area known for its wildlife, including the majestic elk. The campground provides the only public access to the 91-acre Round Lake, which is otherwise surrounded by private land. This gives campers a unique opportunity to enjoy a pristine lake that feels exclusive and untouched. The location is excellent for those who want to be far enough away to enjoy nature in peace, but still be close enough to other popular Michigan destinations. The proximity to other state forest campgrounds and the High Country Pathway for hiking provides even more opportunities for exploration. On-site parking is available, making it convenient for visitors to arrive, unload their gear, and settle in. While the campground offers a feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, it is still a manageable drive from major cities in Michigan. The serene and secluded nature of the location is its biggest asset, as it guarantees a quiet and tranquil stay, free from the noise of traffic and other disturbances. The campground’s location on the lake also provides a beautiful setting for campers to enjoy swimming and fishing, with a gravel boat ramp for those who bring their own watercraft. Overall, the secluded yet accessible location of Round Lake State Forest Campground is what makes it a cherished spot for many Michiganders seeking a genuine outdoor escape.

Services Offered:

• Tent sites for traditional camping.
• RV camping.
• RV water hookups.
• Running water and public toilets.
• On-site parking.
• Accepts a camping fee for stays.
• Picnic tables.

Features / Highlights:

• Quiet and peaceful atmosphere with majestic pines.
• Located on the shores of Round Lake with public access for swimming and boating.
• Offers kid-friendly hikes.
• Known for abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Spacious camping spots with beautiful views.
• A great place to avoid crowds and noise.

Contact Information:

Address: E Round Lake Rd, Vanderbilt, MI 49795, USA

Phone: (989) 983-4101 or +1 989-983-4101

What is worth choosing Round Lake State Forest Campground? The most compelling reasons to choose this campground are its serene environment, the spacious and private sites, and its authentic rustic charm. As one reviewer mentioned, it’s a great place for those "looking to avoid crowds and noise," which is a significant advantage in the often-busy world of summer camping. The feeling of being tucked away in the forest, as described in reviews, provides a much-needed sense of peace and privacy. The campsites are praised for being "large" and offering "beautiful views," which is a major draw for both tent campers and RVers. The natural beauty of the area is a consistent theme in the reviews, with campers noting the "majestic pines" and the abundance of wildlife. For families, the "good for kids" designation and the presence of "kid-friendly hikes" make it a safe and engaging environment for children to explore. While the amenities are rustic, the provision of running water and clean public toilets shows that the campground is well-maintained and provides essential comforts. The on-site hiking opportunities are another key feature, allowing visitors to use the campground as a base for their outdoor adventures. The fact that the campground provides the only public access to Round Lake is a huge plus, offering a sense of exclusivity and a truly peaceful waterfront experience for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. The payment of a camping fee is a simple and transparent process that gives you access to a valuable and beautiful recreational space. In a state full of wonderful campgrounds, Round Lake State Forest Campground stands out as an ideal choice for the camper who values tranquility, natural beauty, and a genuine connection to the great outdoors. It is a true escape from the ordinary and a perfect spot to create lasting memories in Northern Michigan.

Round Lake State Forest Campground

E Round Lake Rd, Vanderbilt, MI 49795, USA