Council Lake Campsites

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. Council Lake is a 12-acre lake with yellow perch, rock and largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, bullhead and northern pike. Licenses are required to fish in Michigan waters. Council Lake is part of a small chain of lakes and offers excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities, with a short portage that links Council Lake to Bar Lake and the Indian Wild and Scenic River. Non-motorized boats can be used on the lake, however access at the campground is by land only; a boat ramp can be found at adjoining Red Jack Lake. The day-use area is equipped with tables and a pedestal grill, and is near a beach that is perfect for lounging and swimming. There are four campsites at Council Lake for tent and small RV camping, each equipped with a table and a campfire ring, with a maximum of 8 people per site. A pit toilet is located near site 1, but toilet paper is not provided. There is no drinking water: water must be brought in and garbage must be carried out. These four campsites are situated on the quaint 12-acre Council Lake, nestled in a mixed stand of hardwood and pine trees. They are on the southern shores of Council Lake, close to adjoining Red Jack and Scout lakes.