Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground

For Michiganders seeking a genuine escape into nature, Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground in Baldwin offers a quintessential rustic camping experience. Tucked away within the beautiful Huron-Manistee National Forests, this campground provides a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate the tranquility of a lakeside setting without the crowds and extensive amenities of larger, more developed parks. It’s a place where the sounds of the forest and the lapping of water on the shore replace the noise of everyday life, inviting campers to unwind and reconnect with the natural world.

Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground is celebrated by its regulars for its spacious and private sites, which, even when the campground is full, maintain a sense of seclusion. This commitment to a serene atmosphere, coupled with direct access to two beautiful lakes – Big Leverentz and Little Leverentz – makes it a beloved destination for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of northern Michigan. If your idea of camping involves starry nights, campfires, and peaceful days on the water, Leverentz Lake is a destination that continually draws campers back for more.

Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground is conveniently located in Baldwin, MI 49304, specifically situated off US Highway 10 West of Baldwin. This prime location places it deep within the scenic Huron-Manistee National Forests, a vast area renowned for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and extensive recreational opportunities. The campground itself is unique, as it’s split into two distinct sections, with campsites bordering both Big Leverentz Lake and the smaller Little Leverentz Lake.

Its accessibility makes it a manageable drive from many parts of Michigan, allowing for weekend getaways or longer, more immersive stays. Despite its rustic feel, the campground is reachable by drive-in, with some sites even accommodating small trailers up to 30 feet, while others are walk-in friendly. The proximity to Baldwin provides a convenient hub for any last-minute supplies, groceries, or gas, balancing the remote feel with practical access to necessities. The surrounding area in Lake County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a network of trails and various other natural attractions within a short drive.

• Rustic Campsites: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground offers 18 rustic campsites in total, with 11 sites on Big Leverentz Lake and 7 on Little Leverentz Lake. These sites are designed for tent and small trailer use, offering a natural and undeveloped setting.

• Spacious and Private Sites: A consistent highlight from campers is the generous size and privacy of the individual campsites. They are often described as being "far enough apart to feel private" with "lots of trees between campsites," even allowing for hammock tents.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, complete with a grate, providing essential amenities for cooking and enjoying traditional campfires.

• Vault Toilets: For sanitation, the campground provides clean and well-maintained vault toilets in both the Big and Little Leverentz Lake sections.

• Hand Pump for Drinking Water: Potable water is available from a hand pump well, typically located near the entrance or central to the campground sections. Campers should be prepared to pump their own water.

• Boat Launch: On Big Leverentz Lake, there is a concrete plank boat launch, suitable for boats on trailers. Little Leverentz Lake offers a smaller, dirt access point, better suited for hand-carrying small boats or kayaks.

• Trash Collection: Trash collection facilities are available on both sides of the campground.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground, allowing Michiganders to bring their furry companions along for the adventure, though standard state forest rules regarding leashing and waste disposal apply.

• Year-Round Camping: The rustic campground is open all year, though seasonal roads may not be plowed in winter. The hand pump for water is removed during colder months, so winter campers must bring all their own water.

• Lakeside Camping on Big and Little Leverentz Lakes: The primary draw is the direct access to two beautiful inland lakes, offering opportunities for paddling, fishing, and enjoying serene waterfront views. Many sites have direct water access or lake views.

• Excellent Fishing: Both Leverentz Lakes are highly regarded for fishing, with campers regularly catching panfish (bluegill, perch, crappie), largemouth bass, and northern pike. The presence of a boat launch on Big Leverentz Lake makes it easy for boat anglers.

• Paddling Paradise: The lakes are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Their size is often described as "just big enough" for enjoyable and repeated excursions, providing a peaceful paddling experience.

• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite being a state forest campground, Leverentz Lake maintains a reputation for being quiet and peaceful, even when full. The natural spacing of sites and surrounding forest contribute to this serene environment.

• Direct Access to Sheep Ranch Pathway: The campground provides direct access to the Sheep Ranch Pathway, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding pine forests. Backpacking (dispersed camping) is also allowed along the pathway, provided it's at least one mile from the campground.

• Stunning Stargazing: Away from urban light pollution, the campground offers incredible opportunities for stargazing on clear nights, a truly memorable experience for many campers.

• Beautiful Scenery, Especially in Fall: The natural landscape surrounding the lakes is very scenic, and many visitors highlight the particularly stunning fall colors, making it an ideal autumn camping destination.

As a Michigan State Forest Campground, Leverentz Lake operates under the fee structure set by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This means it typically does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the same way a private campground might. Instead, the focus is on affordable, accessible camping for all.

Campers will need a Recreation Passport for vehicle entry, in addition to the nightly camping fee (which is generally quite reasonable for rustic sites, often around $20 per night). These fees contribute to the maintenance of state parks, recreation areas, and state forest campgrounds across Michigan. While there aren't seasonal discounts or package deals, the inherent value of a peaceful, well-maintained state forest campground at a consistent, low price is a significant draw for many Michigan residents. It's always best to check the Michigan DNR website or call the Baldwin Field Office (the managing office) for the most current fee information and any specific regulations.

For direct inquiries regarding Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground, including current conditions, specific site details, or to confirm amenities, the best contact is the managing DNR office:

Baldwin Field Office (Michigan DNR)

Address: 231-775-9727 (General Baldwin Field Office phone number, which covers this campground)

Phone: (231) 775-9727

(Note: While the address listed for the campground is Baldwin, MI, the primary contact for detailed information and management is typically the local DNR field office.)

It is recommended to call the Baldwin Field Office for the most up-to-date information, especially concerning site availability (as state forest campgrounds are often first-come, first-served) and any seasonal considerations.

For Michigan residents, Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground offers an ideal camping retreat that perfectly captures the essence of our state's natural beauty and commitment to accessible outdoor recreation. Its location in Baldwin, nestled within the vast Huron-Manistee National Forests, makes it a convenient and relatively quick escape for many, allowing locals to maximize their time in nature rather than on the road.

The core suitability for Michiganders lies in its authentic rustic experience. This campground caters to those who appreciate privacy, peace, and quiet, valuing spacious, well-treed sites over extensive commercial amenities. The opportunity to directly access two beautiful lakes for fishing and paddling is a significant draw, providing endless hours of enjoyment on the water. The consistent positive reviews from fellow Michiganders about the "big enough" lakes for kayaking, the plentiful fish, and the feeling of seclusion even when the campground is full, speak volumes about its appeal.

Furthermore, its direct connection to the Sheep Ranch Pathway appeals to hikers and those who enjoy exploring the forest on foot. The simplicity of vault toilets and a hand pump for water is a small trade-off for the affordability and the profound sense of calm that this state forest campground provides. For families, individuals, or couples seeking a genuine, unplugged Michigan camping adventure where the focus is on natural beauty, fishing, paddling, and starry nights, Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground has become a cherished favorite, offering a consistently wonderful escape right here in our own backyard.