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Access Site MI

Forest Lake Campground

Cleveland Cliffs Basin

Source: michigan_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Dixon, MI
County: Alger County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 46.30498808, -86.86890762
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Forest Lake Campground provides a boat launch and day-use area on the south shore of Cleveland Cliffs Basin (also known as Au Train Lake), located about 10 miles southwest of Munising in Alger County. This is a reliable access point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters looking to explore the lake. The campground itself is reservable through Recreation.gov and features campsites situated right on the water's edge, making it convenient for multi-day paddling trips.

**Practical Information for Paddlers:** The lake offers miles of paddling opportunity and is popular with anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Be aware that the basin contains numerous tree stumps and underwater obstructions—exercise caution when navigating, particularly in shallower areas. The quiet, protected setting makes it suitable for family outings and recreational paddling year-round. The day-use area makes this accessible even for those not camping overnight.

**Getting There:** From the town of AuTrain, travel south on Forest Service Road H03 for approximately 4 miles, then east on Forest Road 2276 for 1 mile, then north on Forest Service Road for another mile to reach the campground. Additional camping options are available at nearby Hovey Lake and Au Train Lake Campground if Forest Lake is full.
Federal Facility Information
Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Located at the south end of AuTrain Lake, this campground is favored by anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The quiet setting is great for family trips, and visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities year-round, all less than a day's drive from major urban areas of Michigan and Wisconsin.Recreation
The large size of the lake provides miles of prime water skiing, boating,...

Overview
Located at the south end of AuTrain Lake, this campground is favored by anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The quiet setting is great for family trips, and visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities year-round, all less than a day's drive from major urban areas of Michigan and Wisconsin.Recreation
The large size of the lake provides miles of prime water skiing, boating, swimming and fishing. Anglers can expect a healthy catch of bass and a variety of perch. Canoeing is also popular on AuTrain Lake and the nearby AuTrain River, which meanders into Lake Superior.

The campground also provides access to the popular two-mile Songbird interpretive trail, which winds through forest and field, along bog and lakeshore, and is popular for birding.

A wildlife viewing platform is available at neighboring Buck Bay and Buck Bay Creek.Facilities
The campground offers dozens of large, wooded campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

A boat ramp is available at the parking area of the campground, and the lot offers plenty of space for turning and parking. Boat rentals are available in AuTrain.Natural Features
AuTrain Lake is located in the upper peninsula of Michigan, between three of the Great Lakes. It sits amid rolling hills forested with pine and aspen trees, as well as large open and tree-covered wetlands.
Nearby Attractions
The city of AuTrain, located on the shores of Lake Superior, is about 5 miles from the campground.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (906) 379-5791.

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Nearby Campgrounds (2 within 10 miles)
Hovey Lake Campsites
On-site
Au Train Lake Campground
On-site Reservable