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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Chicago Lake Campsites

Cooks, Michigan · Delta County · Campground

Overview The Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts of the Hiawatha National Forest offer a variety of camping experiences. Many are located on inland lakes in a rustic forest environment with no drinking water. The rustic environment offers a wonderfully serene and peaceful setting for your next camping …

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About Chicago Lake Campsites

Overview The Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts of the Hiawatha National Forest offer a variety of camping experiences. Many are located on inland lakes in a rustic forest environment with no drinking water. The rustic environment offers a wonderfully serene and peaceful setting for your next camping experience.Recreation Visitors will be able to enjoy swimming, berry picking, and fishing at these campsites. Licenses are required for fishing in Michigan waters. Swimming conditions vary by site. Conditions are the best at sites 3 and 4. Conditions at site 2 are considered fair. The road leading to sites 3 and 4 are shared by anglers using the public boat launch into Chicago Lake. This boat launch is located adjacent to Site 4 and features an improved gravel ramp for accessing the abundant population of northern pike and bluegills. Largemouth bass and perch are present in smaller quanities. Facilities There are primitive toilets available at site 2 and between sites 3 and 4. There is NO drinking water. Lake Name: Chicago Lake Number of Sites: 3 Maximum Number of People Per Site: 16 Toilets: Yes Boat Access: Back - In Lake Size (acres): 188 Natural Features Chicago Lake (188 acres) hosts four campsites and an improved boat launch, all clustered around its north end. Site #1 is Decomissioned Site #2 is a larger site in an open area, measuring 55 ft. by 45 ft. It can accommodate 2 families and trailers. There is a primitive toilet at this site. Site #3 is a larger site surrounded by tall pines and is near the lakeshore. It measures 60 ft. by 50 ft. and is suitable for two families. However, trailer access is difficult because of limited turning area. Site #4 is a semi-open area that measures 55 ft. by 50 ft. It can accommodate two families and trailers. A primitive toilet is shared with site #4. There is a boat launch located adjacent to site #4 and features an improved gravel ramp for accessing Chicago Lake. Nearby Attractions There are a number of hor

How to Get There

From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River or 22 miles west of Manistique): drive north 8.4 miles on Highway 13 to CR 442. Turn right (east) and drive 5 miles to County Road N-3. Turn left (north) on N-3 and drive 0.1 mile to FR 2422 turning left (northwest) on to 2422 and continuing about 0.25 mile to the campsites.

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 Chicago Lake Campsites

Heading to Chicago Lake Campsites? 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 Chicago Lake Campsites?

No central reservation system listed for Chicago Lake Campsites. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273334) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Chicago Lake Campsites?

From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River or 22 miles west of Manistique): drive north 8.4 miles on Highway 13 to CR 442. Turn right (east) and drive 5 miles to County Road N-3. Turn left (north) on N-3 and drive 0.1 mile to FR 2422 turning left (northwest) on to 2422 and continuing about 0.25 mile to the campsites.

How do I contact Chicago Lake Campsites?

You can reach the park at phone: 906-474-6442 OR 906-387-2512.