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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

ISLAND LAKE

Chatham, Michigan · Alger County · Campground

Overview Island Lake Campground is a small and quiet campground nestled in a mostly pine forest. Island Lake offers great fishing for anglers with small boats or canoes.Recreation Island Lake offers excellent fishing and canoeing or kayaking. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, blue gill and perch. The campground offers …

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46.27083, -86.65139
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About ISLAND LAKE

Overview Island Lake Campground is a small and quiet campground nestled in a mostly pine forest. Island Lake offers great fishing for anglers with small boats or canoes.Recreation Island Lake offers excellent fishing and canoeing or kayaking. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, blue gill and perch. The campground offers fishing from shore. Island Lake Campground features a boat slip for small carry-in boats or canoes. Other popular activities include hiking, biking and ATV trails.Facilities This small campground offers a group site and single-family sites that can be doubled-up to occupy two families. Note: Each family has to pay a site fee if doubled up on one site.Natural Features Although there are a few mixed hardwood trees in the area, this campground is favored by those individuals who like to camp in a classic pine forest setting. Nearby Attractions There are many waterfalls to see in the area, as well as the popular Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Grand Island, located just 15 miles away at Lake Superior. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (906) 767-1111.

How to Get There

From the intersection of M-28 and Forest Highway 13, just a couple miles east of Munising, drive south 8.8 miles to FR 2268, or Buckhorn Road. Turn right (southwest) on FR 2268 and drive 2.2 miles on FR 2268 and FR 2254 to FR 2557. Turn left (south) on FR 2557 and drive 0.8 mile to Island Lake Campground.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed 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 ISLAND LAKE

Heading to ISLAND LAKE? 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 ISLAND LAKE?

No central reservation system listed for ISLAND LAKE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251536) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to ISLAND LAKE?

From the intersection of M-28 and Forest Highway 13, just a couple miles east of Munising, drive south 8.8 miles to FR 2268, or Buckhorn Road. Turn right (southwest) on FR 2268 and drive 2.2 miles on FR 2268 and FR 2254 to FR 2557. Turn left (south) on FR 2557 and drive 0.8 mile to Island Lake Campground.

How do I contact ISLAND LAKE?

You can reach the park at email: dave@camprrm.com.