About Bobcat Lake Campground
Located in Gogebic County just 3 miles southeast of Marenisco, Mi., on the Bessemer Ranger District in the southern half of the Ottawa National Forest. Bobcat Lake campground features one loop with 11 campsites. Campsites are bordered by vegetation providing privacy between sites. These drive in sites offer a tent pad, wood table, fire ring, lantern post and gravel parking spur. Two accessible vault toilets are located in the campground and water is provided by a centrally located hand pump in the loop. A sandy beach and day use area, complete with vault toilets, tables, grills and changing house is located 1/2 mile east of the campground. Also adjacent to the campground is a boat ramp which provides access to a variety of game fish.
How to Get There
From Bessemer, Mi., travel east on US 2 approximately 19 miles, turn right onto Fair Avenue and travel approximately 1 mile to M 64, turn left onto M 64 and travel approximately ¼ mile to FR 8500, turn right onto FR 8500 and travel approximately 2 miles to the campground.From Watersmeet, Mi., travel west on US 2 approximately 24 miles, turn left onto M 64 and travel approximately 2 miles to FR 8500, turn left onto FR 8500 and travel approximately 2 miles to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Bobcat Lake Campground
Heading to Bobcat Lake Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Bobcat Lake Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Bobcat Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/238258) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Bobcat Lake Campground?
From Bessemer, Mi., travel east on US 2 approximately 19 miles, turn right onto Fair Avenue and travel approximately 1 mile to M 64, turn left onto M 64 and travel approximately ¼ mile to FR 8500, turn right onto FR 8500 and travel approximately 2 miles to the campground.From Watersmeet, Mi., travel west on US 2 approximately 24 miles, turn left onto M 64 and travel approximately 2 miles to FR 850…
References & Official Resources
