Avery Lake State Forest Campground

For those of us in Michigan looking for a genuine escape into nature, away from the constant buzz of modern life, Avery Lake State Forest Campground offers a truly refreshing experience. Nestled in the heart of Montmorency County, this rustic gem provides the quintessential "up north" Michigan camping adventure. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, recharge, and reconnect with the natural beauty that our state is so famous for. Whether you’re an avid angler, a family looking for a peaceful retreat, or simply someone yearning for quiet solitude under a starlit sky, Avery Lake State Forest Campground is a destination worth exploring.

Avery Lake State Forest Campground is conveniently located at 6036 Avery Lake Rd, Atlanta, MI 49709, USA. While it offers a secluded and remote feel, it's easily accessible for Michigan residents. Situated approximately nine miles southwest of Atlanta, via County Road 487 and Avery Lake Road, the campground is well-placed for those seeking to immerse themselves in Michigan's expansive state forests. The town of Atlanta, known as the "Elk Capital of the World," provides a charming gateway to this wilderness area, offering a taste of local culture before you dive into your outdoor adventure. It's about halfway between Gaylord and Alpena, making it a manageable drive for many across the Lower Peninsula.

One of the unique aspects of Avery Lake is its commitment to providing an "off the grid" experience. This means that while you're enjoying the serenity of the wilderness, you'll find limited to no cell service or Wi-Fi. For many, this is a highlight, allowing for a true digital detox and a deeper connection with your surroundings and companions. The roads leading to the campground are well-maintained, though you can expect some gravel portions as you approach the more remote areas, adding to the sense of adventure without compromising accessibility.

• Rustic Campsites: Avery Lake State Forest Campground provides 16 campsites, designed primarily for tents and small trailers. Ten of these sites can accommodate vehicles or trailers up to 40 feet in length, while three are walk-in sites specifically for tents, offering an even more secluded experience.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for campers' convenience, ensuring basic sanitation facilities are on hand.

• Potable Water: A hand-pump well provides access to potable water, essential for drinking and cooking during your stay.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, perfect for enjoying outdoor meals and traditional campfires under the Michigan sky.

• Boat Launch: A hard-surface boat launch is available on Avery Lake, accommodating medium watercraft such as fishing boats, canoes, and kayaks. This makes it easy for visitors to get out on the water and explore the lake's 320 acres.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure, though it’s always important to keep them leashed and follow responsible pet owner guidelines.

• Exceptional Fishing: Avery Lake is renowned among local anglers for its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is home to a variety of species including perch, bass (smallmouth and largemouth), pike, bluegill, and walleye. Many visitors have reported good catches, making it a prime spot for both seasoned and novice fishermen. The clear, deep waters are a draw for those seeking a productive day on the lake.

• Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: As a state forest campground, Avery Lake offers a truly rustic and uncrowded environment. It's often described by visitors as "quiet" and "low key," rarely getting busy. This makes it an ideal spot for those who truly want to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of nature without the distractions of larger, more developed campgrounds.

• Beautiful Lake for Swimming and Boating: Avery Lake itself is a stunning feature, with clear, clean waters perfect for swimming, especially during Michigan's warmer months. Its 320 acres provide ample space for paddling, kayaking, and exploring by boat. Some walk-in sites even offer direct beach access, allowing for immediate enjoyment of the lake's shoreline.

• Opportunities for Exploration: Beyond the lake, the surrounding state forest offers numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring. There are miles of state forest roads nearby, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous off-road vehicle (ORV) ride, though ORV use is restricted within the campground itself. The presence of nearby equestrian trails also adds to the diverse recreational options in the area.

• Nature Immersion: Visitors consistently praise the natural beauty of the campground, noting its large, wooded sites and the feeling of being "deep in the woods." The absence of significant light pollution makes for incredible stargazing, and the wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, offering a genuine escape from urban noise.

As a State Forest Campground managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Avery Lake State Forest Campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means there are no advance reservations for campsites. While there aren't specific "promotions" in the commercial sense, the allure of a readily available, serene, and affordable camping experience is a constant offering. The current campsite fee is $20 per night, in addition to the required Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas. This passport supports the maintenance and improvements of these natural treasures across Michigan. Visitors are advised to check the Michigan DNR website or contact the campground directly for the most up-to-date information on fees and any potential temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.

For inquiries and further details about Avery Lake State Forest Campground, you can reach out to the Atlanta Management Unit, which oversees this rustic camping area.

Address: 6036 Avery Lake Rd, Atlanta, MI 49709, USA

Phone: (989) 785-4388

Mobile Phone: +1 989-785-4388

Avery Lake State Forest Campground stands out as an ideal destination for Michigan locals seeking an authentic and tranquil outdoor experience. Its rustic charm, combined with the pristine beauty of Avery Lake and the surrounding state forest, offers a much-needed respite from daily life. For those living across Michigan, it's a manageable drive to a place where cell service fades, and the sounds of nature take over. This "off the grid" aspect is not a drawback, but a key selling point, allowing Michiganders to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural world.

The excellent fishing, boat launch, and the clear waters of Avery Lake provide ample opportunities for water-based recreation, while the numerous state forest roads invite exploration on foot or by ORV. The positive customer reviews highlight the peaceful ambiance and the beauty of the lake, with many expressing a desire to return for more relaxation and fishing. As one satisfied camper noted, it’s a "beautiful spot to camp and just relax away from it all." The affordability and first-come, first-served availability also make it a spontaneous and accessible option for a weekend getaway or a longer wilderness retreat. In essence, Avery Lake State Forest Campground offers Michigan residents a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and a genuine opportunity to experience the peace and quiet of Michigan's stunning northern outdoors.