About Mowe 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 dispersed campsites. Licenses are required for fishing in Michigan waters. Mowe Lake is a good fishery for northern pike, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed and yellow perch. Survesy indicate a good, healthy fishery. there is an unimproved access located across from site 2. It has a sand base and is recommneded for small boats and trailers only. Facilities There is NO drinking water provided at this site. There is a primitive toilet shared by both sites Lake Name: Mowe Lake Number of Sites: 2 Max Number of People Per Site: 8 (for both sites) Toilets: Yes Boat Access: Carry in Lake Size (acres): 25 Natural Features There are two campsites located on Mowe Lake, each with their own set of characteristics: Site 1 is located in a semi-open area bordered by hardwood trees. It is 60 ft. x 40 ft and suitable for one family and trailer. Site 2 is similar to site 1 in layout, but slightly smaller in size. It is suitable for one family and trailer. The access road to these sites is narrow, but capable of handling moderate sized vehicles and trailers. Contact Info For local information, please call (906) 474-6442 or call (906) 387-2512 for general information. Nearby Attractions There are a number of horse, bike, and hiking trails within minutes of several of the sites. In over a mile from these campsites, visitors can expect to find: bait shops, general and grocery stores, gas, a pay phone, trailheads, a fishing pier, biking, and kayak/canoe rentals. Gasoline, groceries, fishing and camping supplies, boat rentals, ice, MDNR, licenses, deli and restaurants are available ap
How to Get There
From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River), drive north 19 miles on Highway 13 to CR 440. Turn right (east) and drive 3.5 miles to FR 2209. Turn right (southeast) on 2209 at the Big Springs North Trailhead and drive 0.4 mile to FR 8104. Turn right (west) and drive about 0.6 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
- 👕
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
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 Mowe Lake Campsites
Heading to Mowe 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 Mowe Lake Campsites?
No central reservation system listed for Mowe Lake Campsites. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273339) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Mowe Lake Campsites?
From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River), drive north 19 miles on Highway 13 to CR 440. Turn right (east) and drive 3.5 miles to FR 2209. Turn right (southeast) on 2209 at the Big Springs North Trailhead and drive 0.4 mile to FR 8104. Turn right (west) and drive about 0.6 mile to the campsites.
How do I contact Mowe Lake Campsites?
You can reach the park at phone: 906-474-6442 OR 906-387-2512.
References & Official Resources
