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Garnet Lake Campground

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Garnet Lake Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (906) 635-5281

Address Park Rd, Naubinway, MI 49762, USA

Website https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=689&type=SFCG

Hours

Garnet Lake Campground Location & Map

MichiganMackinac CountyNaubinwayPark Road

Garnet Lake Campground About

Are you searching for a tranquil escape amidst Michigan's stunning natural beauty? Look no further than Garnet Lake Campground. Tucked away in the serene Upper Peninsula, this hidden gem offers a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Formerly a State Forest Campground, Garnet Lake Campground is now proudly owned and operated by Hudson Township, ensuring a community-focused and well-maintained experience for all visitors. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Garnet Lake Campground, helping local Michigan residents discover their next favorite outdoor destination. From its peaceful setting to its essential amenities, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Garnet Lake Campground is conveniently located at Park Rd, Naubinway, MI 49762, USA. Naubinway is a charming community in the Upper Peninsula, known for its proximity to various natural attractions and its welcoming atmosphere. While the campground offers a sense of seclusion, it's not entirely off the grid. As one visitor noted, it's "Closer to gas and shops but still a ways off the heavily traveled roads," striking an ideal balance between peaceful isolation and practical accessibility. The road leading to and through the campground is part of its unique character, allowing for easy arrival and departure. This balance makes Garnet Lake Campground an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet retreat without sacrificing convenient access to essential supplies. The Upper Peninsula's vast and scenic landscapes provide a beautiful backdrop for this campground, making the journey to Garnet Lake just as enjoyable as the stay itself. Its location provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, from hiking trails to scenic drives, making it a true Michigan wilderness experience.

Garnet Lake Campground, though modest in its offerings, focuses on providing fundamental services that enhance the camping experience. The emphasis here is on simplicity and embracing nature, with key amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

  • Campsites: The campground features 10 spacious campsites, offering ample room for campers to set up and enjoy their surroundings. A couple of these sites boast prime lakeside views, providing a picturesque setting for your outdoor adventure.

  • Outhouses: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and maintenance of the outhouses, with one review highlighting them as "best kept outhouses I’ve ever come across." This attention to detail significantly contributes to a more pleasant camping experience.

  • Firewood: Firewood is available, operating on a donation basis. This thoughtful provision allows campers to enjoy warming campfires and cooking opportunities while contributing to the upkeep of the campground.

  • Lake Access: The small, pretty lake offers opportunities for fishing. While swimming may not be ideal due to silty water and reeds, the sandy beach area provides a pleasant spot to relax by the water's edge.

  • Peaceful Environment: The primary "service" offered here is tranquility. Reviewers consistently mention the quiet and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and unwind.

Garnet Lake Campground truly shines through its distinctive features, which contribute to its appeal as a cherished local spot.

  • Hudson Township Ownership & Operation: The transition from a State Forest Campground to Hudson Township ownership signifies a local commitment to maintaining and improving the campground for the community. This local management often translates to a more personalized and well-cared-for environment.

  • Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: A resounding highlight from visitor reviews is the overwhelming sense of peace and quiet. This makes Garnet Lake an ideal retreat for those looking to escape noise and immerse themselves in nature.

  • Large Campsites: With only 10 sites, each campsite is notably large, providing campers with generous space and privacy. This contrasts with more densely packed campgrounds and allows for a more relaxed and spread-out experience.

  • Lakeside Sites: The availability of a few coveted lakeside sites offers campers direct access to the beautiful Garnet Lake, enhancing the scenic value of their stay.

  • Fishing Opportunities: The small lake is described as "pretty" and "probably good for fishing," making it an attractive destination for anglers seeking a quiet spot to cast a line.

  • Well-Maintained Outhouses: The exceptionally clean outhouses are a consistent point of praise, showcasing a commitment to hygiene and visitor comfort even in a rustic setting.

  • Donation-Based Firewood: The availability of firewood with a suggested donation fosters a sense of community and trust, allowing campers to easily access this essential amenity.

One of the most appealing aspects of Garnet Lake Campground is its incredible affordability, which can be considered its standing promotion. The fee for a night's stay is only $10. This exceptionally low rate makes Garnet Lake Campground an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly option for individuals and families seeking an authentic Michigan camping experience without breaking the bank. This everyday low price acts as a constant special offer, inviting more people to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Upper Peninsula. While there are no specific seasonal discounts or multi-night stay promotions advertised, the consistent low fee makes it a highly attractive choice year-round for those looking for value. The donation-based firewood further enhances the value proposition, allowing campers to manage their expenses while still enjoying all the traditional elements of a campfire.

For inquiries or to plan your visit, you can reach Garnet Lake Campground using the following contact information:

  • Address: Park Rd, Naubinway, MI 49762, USA

  • Phone: (906) 635-5281

  • Mobile Phone: +1 906-635-5281

Given that the campground is now owned and operated by Hudson Township, these contact details are likely to connect you with local township offices or designated park management who can provide the most current information regarding availability, regulations, and any other specific questions you might have about your stay. It's always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak season, to confirm site availability and any operational updates.

Garnet Lake Campground is an ideal destination for Michigan locals seeking a genuine, peaceful, and affordable outdoor experience. Its transition to Hudson Township ownership underscores a community commitment to preserving this natural haven for residents. For those living in Michigan, particularly in the Upper Peninsula and surrounding areas, Garnet Lake offers a convenient escape that feels a world away from urban life. The quiet atmosphere, large campsites, and the simple beauty of the small lake provide a much-needed respite. Whether you're an avid angler looking for a serene fishing spot, a family seeking a budget-friendly weekend getaway, or simply someone yearning for the tranquility of nature, Garnet Lake Campground delivers. The glowing reviews about its cleanliness and peacefulness attest to its suitability for anyone looking to recharge. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, enjoy a campfire under the stars, and appreciate the serene wilderness that Michigan is famous for, all without traveling far from home or spending a fortune. Garnet Lake Campground truly is a perfect local gem, offering a taste of authentic Michigan camping that encourages repeat visits and becomes a cherished part of your outdoor traditions. Its focus on providing a simple yet fulfilling camping experience makes it a suitable and sustainable option for residents looking to regularly enjoy the natural beauty of their home state.

Customer Reviews

4.0
48 reviews
B
Boho Mamó
Sep 22, 2021

Formerly a State Forest Campground, it is now owned & operated by Hudson Township. The road actually passes right through the campground. The lake is small and pretty, probably good for fishing, but not sure about swimming. The beach area is sandy but the water looks a little silty and has some reeds. Campsites are big but there's only 10 sites, a couple are lakeside. Very peaceful visit! Fee is only $10 a night!

M
Mike Reddy
Aug 01, 2023

Traveled across the UP last year trying to locate a perfect location. FOUND IT!! Quiet. Closer to gas and shops but still a ways off the heavily traveled roads. Fire wood(please make $ donation) best kept outhouses I’ve ever come across…I’ll be back in a couple months!!

G
Greg Krueger
Sep 17, 2023

Typical campsites here are very open to neighboring sites with minimal vegetation between them to provide privacy. Some newly-developed campsites on the far end of the campground provide better privacy and direct lake access. Lake appears swimmable, though the campground lacks a formal beach. Facilities are clean and well-maintained.

m
madalyn
Aug 09, 2023

stayed there for a week and trains went by at 3, 4, and 6 AM on different nights. sandhill cranes also woke me up every morning at 6AM, can’t really blame them though (: . not very clear signage, so i kept driving down the dirt road it’s on for a ways because it’s not clear where the campsites end. it had free firewood (with donations i believe, not sure as i didn’t use any) and the spots were a decent size. some were on a bit of a slope, especially ones by the lake unfortunately. nice clean restrooms, the less modern ones smelled better as i’m assuming they get used less. on the surrounding roads/trails near the bathrooms, there are huge blackberry and raspberry patches!

A
Amber Withrow
Oct 17, 2021

We primarily rustic camp, and this one is the favorite. Large lots, beautiful shallow lake, and even cutely decorated outhouses. A highlight was spending time observing a bald eagle.