Camp Seven Lake Campground Manistique, MI

by John Rodgers / Monday, May 26, 2025 / Published in Michigan Paid, Paid or Permit Camping

Camp Seven Lake
Campground in Manistique, MI

ADDRESS
Campground Road Manistique, MI 46.057133, -86.548622 Elevation: 771′
MANAGEMENT
Public – Forest Service 906-428-5800 This is a FREE campsite.

Camp Seven Lake Campground

AMENITIES:	ACTIVITIES:
Drinking Water Restrooms	Boating Fishing Swimming

About This Location

Seven Lake Campground in Manistique, MI, is a solid pick if you’re looking to unwind in nature and try some outdoor activities. It’s tucked beside a 60-acre lake—perfect for swimming, fishing, or just floating around in a boat. The place feels peaceful, and you can get to the water or nearby trails without much effort.

You’ll see options for both tents and RVs, so it doesn’t matter if you’re roughing it or rolling in with a big trailer. This campground makes it pretty easy to get away from things, whether you want a quiet weekend or a family trip with a little adventure.

Getting there isn’t complicated, and you’ll find what you need for a basic camping trip. If you’re thinking about exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Seven Lake Campground deserves a spot on your list.

Key Takeaways

Swim, fish, and boat on the 60-acre lake.
Tent and RV campers both have a place here.
Access is straightforward, and the vibe is laid-back.

Free Campsites Near Seven Lake Campground

If you want to boondock near Manistique, MI, Camp Seven Lake Campground in Hiawatha National Forest is a solid choice. The area feels remote—definitely not your typical packed campground.

Boondocking here means you won’t have hookups for water or power, so you’ll need to bring what you need. The campground sits close to Camp Seven Lake (about 60 acres), and you can get out on the water or cast a line.

The forest around the lake gives you plenty of room to wander. Hike some trails, or just hang out and listen to the wind in the trees. It’s a good spot if you’re after a rustic, no-frills camping experience.

Boondocking highlights at Camp Seven Lake:

No electrical, water, or sewer hookups
Direct access to a 60-acre lake
Hiking trails in the Hiawatha National Forest
Not far from Manistique if you need supplies

You’ll find the campground about 20 miles from Garden Corners and fairly close to Manistique, so you’re not completely cut off from civilization.

Try to stick to Leave No Trace principles while you’re here. It really does help keep the forest and lake in good shape for everyone.

Things To Do

At Seven Lake Campground, you’ve got a handful of ways to stay busy outside. The lake is great for swimming, boating, and fishing—you might reel in some bluegill or even a brook trout if you’re lucky.

If you’re into hiking, check out the nearby nature trail. It winds through the woods, and you might spot some wildlife if you’re quiet enough.

There’s a picnic area with tables, a campfire circle, and a grill. Not a bad place for lunch, especially if you’re with friends or family.

If you want to branch out, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior aren’t too far away. Both are worth the drive if you want bigger water and more dramatic views.

And if you’re up for a mini road trip, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is close enough for a day’s outing. Those colorful cliffs are something else.

When the day winds down, grab a spot by the lake and watch the sunset. The sky and water put on a show you don’t really get in the city.

10 Camp Seven Lake Campground Manistique, MI

Directions

To get to Seven Lake Campground near Manistique, MI, you’ll start out heading north on Highway 13. After about 8.4 miles, take a right onto County Road 442 (CR 442).

Keep going east on CR 442 for 7.8 miles. Watch for the campground road on your left—it heads north and takes you straight to the campground.

If you’re coming from the Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway, you’ll hook up with Highway 13 near Manistique, then follow the same route: north on 13, east on CR 442.

Road signs can be a little sparse, so keep your eyes peeled. Take it slow on CR 442; it’s easy to miss the turn if you’re not paying attention.

The area’s pretty quiet and surrounded by forest. Make sure you’ve got enough gas and whatever supplies you need before you head out. Most of the drive is on paved roads, so you don’t need a special vehicle.

Punch the address into your GPS if you can—Camp Seven Lake is a good landmark as you get close.

Vehicle Access

You’ll reach Seven Lake Campground by driving east on M-94 from Manistique, then following the forest service roads that lead right to Campground Road.

The roads are gravel but manageable for most vehicles. Still, you’ll want to drive carefully, especially after rain or snow—things can get slick or muddy fast.

The campground handles big rigs just fine. RVs and trailers up to 50 or 60 feet can fit into the sites without much trouble.

Each campsite comes with its own parking spot. Just remember, there’s a fee per vehicle for both day use and overnight stays, so double-check the current rates before you show up.

If you’re bringing a boat, there’s a public access boat launch less than a mile from the campsites. Dragging your boat across the woods isn’t necessary.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

At Camp Seven Lake Campground, you can roll in with your RV or camping trailer. Sites accommodate vehicles up to 60 feet—plenty of room for most setups.

A lot of the sites have electric hookups, which is handy if you need to plug in, but not every spot has this, so check before you book.

You’ll find vault toilets for bathroom needs. They’re basic—no running water or showers here.

Bring your own water or fill up at the water stations. Water’s available, but you’ll want to top off your tank when you get a chance.

If tent camping’s more your style, there are shaded, private spots tucked into the woods. You get a decent amount of space and some peace from your neighbors.

The driveways are long, and the sites are spaced out, so you won’t feel crammed in. Some spots—especially in the Bay View Campground area—have nice lake views.

Fees are per night, and you can choose single or double family sites. Bring what you need; amenities are intentionally minimal to keep the place feeling wild.

The campground opens from mid-May to early October. Plan your trip around that window.

Paid Or Permit Sites

Seven Lake Campground in Manistique charges a nightly fee—usually $12 or less, so it’s not going to break the bank. That money goes into keeping the campground and its facilities up and running.

You can reserve your site ahead of time, up to six months in advance. It’s a good idea, especially during the busy season (May to October), and even more so if you’re showing up with a big RV or trailer.

There are a few different site types, including spots for RVs up to 39 feet. Each one puts you close to the lake and within reach of the basics, like restrooms and drinking water.

If you’re thinking about Manistique Lakeshore Campground, the rules are pretty similar. Both places require a permit or fee, so be ready to pay before you set up.

Check the latest permit prices and availability online before you go. Saves you from any last-minute headaches.