We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19, Crystal Falls, MI

For Michigan residents, the call of the wild, particularly the majestic Upper Peninsula, is a powerful one. It's a place where diverse landscapes meet boundless outdoor opportunities. Among the many unique destinations, We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19, located near Crystal Falls, offers an exceptionally distinct experience. This isn't just a campground; it's part of a much larger, 23,000-acre recreational area managed by We Energies, blending traditional camping with the unexpected charm of a working Texas Longhorn Cattle Ranch. This makes it an incredibly intriguing option for Michiganders looking for more than just a typical campsite.

Wilderness Shores, encompassing various recreation areas including Campground 19, is designed to cater to a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned angler, an avid hunter, a family looking for a unique escape, or someone simply seeking peaceful solitude surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this destination provides a compelling backdrop for your adventures. The blend of managed wilderness with unexpected agritourism elements truly sets it apart, promising a memorable visit that goes beyond the ordinary.

This article is specifically crafted to inform and inspire Michigan locals about We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19. We will provide a comprehensive overview, covering its location and accessibility within the Upper Peninsula, detail the various services and impressive features that are available, and offer clear contact information to help you plan your trip. Our aim is to provide factual, engaging content that helps you discover why this unique campground might be the perfect fit for your next Michigan outdoor escapade.

Location and Accessibility

We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19 is located in Crystal Falls, MI 49920, USA. This places it within Iron County in Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula, a region renowned for its vast forests, abundant lakes, and diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. The entire Wilderness Shores recreation area spans an impressive 23,000 acres across northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, indicating a truly expansive natural environment for visitors.

Access to We Energies Wilderness Shores areas, including Campground 19, is typically straightforward via well-maintained state and county roads leading into Crystal Falls and the surrounding forested lands. While some areas within Wilderness Shores might feel remote due to their sheer size and primitive nature, the core campgrounds are designed to be reachable for various types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers. Crystal Falls itself serves as a convenient nearby community where campers can stock up on supplies or seek additional services if needed, as some areas can be "miles from the nearest doctor," necessitating a well-stocked first-aid kit.

The vastness of the Wilderness Shores property means visitors have unparalleled access to large tracts of land for exploration. For Michigan residents, this means less travel time to a truly immersive wilderness experience, whether coming from other parts of the Upper Peninsula or making the journey from the Lower Peninsula. The region around Crystal Falls is rich with natural beauty and provides a perfect setting for a secluded yet accessible outdoor adventure.

Services Offered

We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19, and the broader Wilderness Shores recreation areas, offer a surprisingly diverse range of services, catering to both primitive campers and those seeking more comfort. Key services include:

Varied Campsite Types: Wilderness Shores offers "5 Types of Campsites to Experience," including Lake View RV Sites, Oak Forest RV Sites, Shoreline Tent Camping, and RV Boondocking/Dispersed Tent Camping. This variety allows campers to choose the level of amenities and solitude that best suits their preferences.
RV Hookups: For RV sites, 20/30/50 Amp Service and double water hookups are provided, ensuring a comfortable stay with electrical power and ample water access.
Private Restrooms and Showers: A significant upgrade from many rustic campgrounds, Wilderness Shores boasts new private bathrooms and showers, offering a level of comfort typically found in more developed parks.
RV Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RVs, allowing for proper disposal of wastewater.
Potable Water: Water is available at each Tent Camping site, in addition to the double water hookups at RV sites. However, for some of the more semi-primitive areas, campers are advised to "bring all your camping needs with you – including your drinking water," suggesting variability.
Picnic Tables, Fire Pits, and Charcoal Grills: Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire pit (fires in fire pits only), and a charcoal grill, enhancing the outdoor cooking and gathering experience.
Fiber WiFi: High-speed fiber WiFi is available for all sites, a notable modern amenity that allows visitors to stay connected even while enjoying the wilderness.
RV Rentals: For those without their own RV, Wilderness Shores offers "top-of-the-line RV rentals, designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible." These spacious RVs can comfortably sleep 8-10 guests.
On-Site Registration and Fees: Camping is available for a fee, with a $15 per night fee for each regular campsite and a $20/night fee for "Premium" sites. All campers must register on-site, completing an envelope with payment for their entire stay.
Length of Stay: The length of stay is limited to 15 days per season/per recreation area to ensure fair access.

These comprehensive services provide a balance of rustic charm and modern convenience, setting We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19 apart as a highly accommodating destination.

Features / Highlights

We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19 and its surrounding areas offer a truly unique array of features and highlights that enhance the camping experience:

Texas Longhorn Cattle Ranch: This is a standout feature. Wilderness Shores is a "working Texas Longhorn Ranch" with over 750 acres. Visitors can "Join daily Longhorn 'cattle drives,' feed cows, and pet Nigerian Dwarf goats." This agritourism element provides an interactive and memorable experience, particularly for families.
Extensive Lakefront Property: The recreation area boasts "3+ Miles of Lakefront Property" and "Water and Islands to Explore!" This provides ample opportunities for various water-based activities and offers "breathtaking scenery" and "peaceful solitude."
Fishing and Boating Activities: With extensive lake access, the area is perfect for fishing and boating. "Fishing and Boating Activities" are readily available, and "Parking and launching facilities are available at nearly all areas." Kayak rentals are also available, and campers can "fish, kayak, and explore islands on the lake."
Hunting Opportunities: In season, "hunters are welcome to pursue their favorite game," with "Whitetail deer, ruffed grouse, waterfowl and small game animals abound" in the 23,000 acres of public land.
Hiking and Exploration: Campers can "explore trails on high ridges with water on both sides, and loop through the island," providing scenic walking and hiking opportunities through forests and along shorelines.
Winter Activities: For cooler months, "ice fishing and cross-country skiing await visitors," extending the recreational season.
Abundant Wildlife: The vast natural setting is "home to numerous species" for bird-watchers and wildlife observers.
Spacious and Secluded Sites: Despite amenities, the overall design aims for a balance, with RV sites offering spaciousness and tent camping providing opportunities for solitude by the shoreline or within oak forests.
Beautiful Scenery: The overall environment promises "breathtaking Scenery, Peaceful Solitude & Recreation."

These features combine to create a multifaceted outdoor destination that caters to a wide range of interests, from serene relaxation to active adventures, all within a unique ranch setting.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a recreational area managed by We Energies, a utility company, Wilderness Shores Campground 19 operates under a specific fee structure rather than typical commercial "promotions" or "special offers." The pricing is clearly defined: a $15 per night fee for each regular campsite and a $20 per night fee for "Premium" sites. These prices are "subject to change without notice," so it's always best to confirm directly with We Energies. While there aren't traditional discount codes or seasonal sales, the unique agritourism experience and the breadth of available activities, combined with well-maintained facilities (including private restrooms/showers and fiber WiFi), represent the inherent value and "offer" of staying at Wilderness Shores. Any updates on pricing or specific arrangements would typically be communicated through their official website or by direct contact with the Wilderness Shores management.

Contact Information

For We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19, located at Crystal Falls, MI 49920, USA, specific contact information is available directly through We Energies, who manage the Wilderness Shores recreation areas. It's important to note that the provided phone number is specifically for campground information rather than a general We Energies customer service line.

Address: Crystal Falls, MI 49920, USA (This is the general location of the campground within the broader Wilderness Shores area.)
Phone: (906) 779-2519 (This is the dedicated contact number for Wilderness Shores campground information.)

It is always recommended to contact this number or visit the official We Energies Wilderness Shores website (we-energies.com/environment/wilderness-shores) for the most current information regarding campsite availability, specific opening/closing dates (as "Campsite opening varies from year to year, depending on weather, but we typically open by Memorial Day weekend. All sites will be closed on Sept. 30"), any fee changes, and detailed rules and regulations before planning your trip.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19 presents an incredibly suitable and appealing option for Michigan locals, offering a distinctive blend of traditional Upper Peninsula outdoor adventure with unique amenities and experiences. For residents of our state, this campground provides an accessible yet truly immersive escape into nature, distinguishing itself from many other camping destinations.

What makes it particularly attractive for Michiganders is its comprehensive offering. Whether you're a family with kids eager for an interactive and educational experience on a real Texas Longhorn Cattle Ranch, an avid angler or hunter seeking abundant opportunities, or simply someone desiring a comfortable base camp with modern conveniences like private restrooms and fiber WiFi, Wilderness Shores caters to diverse needs. This eliminates the need to "rough it" entirely while still being deeply connected to the wilderness.

The vast 23,000-acre recreational area ensures that there's always something to explore, from extensive lakefront property perfect for fishing and boating to numerous trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. The allowance for ORV use on certain We Energies lands (though prohibited within the campground itself) also caters to a segment of Michigan's outdoor enthusiasts. Furthermore, the commitment to providing accessible yet beautiful natural spaces by We Energies highlights a valuable resource for local communities.

In essence, We Energies Wilderness Shores Campground 19 is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a versatile outdoor hub that embraces the best of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It offers a chance to create lasting memories, whether by participating in a cattle drive, enjoying a peaceful day on the water, or simply relaxing by a campfire under the U.P. stars. For any Michigan local seeking a truly unique, amenity-rich, and adventure-filled camping experience, Wilderness Shores Campground 19 stands out as an exceptional choice.