Bob Lake Rd
Trout Creek, MI

The 22 campgrounds of the Ottawa National Forest offer a wide spectrum of camping experiences with many sites located on a lake. All campgrounds are accessible by road and most service both tent and trailer campers. Most sites are first-come-first-serve so plan ahead to arrive early.

Bruce Crossing, MI

Snow melt and rain make spring a great time to visit these waterfalls. Viewing them is enjoyable year round, even in winter. Some are easily accessible, while others require planning ahead for a hike, so be sure to research prior to visiting.

Forest Rd 922
Nisula, MI

The Ottawa National Forest has more than 196 miles of hiking trails to enjoy. A favorite hike is Silver Mountain which is an isolated basalt dome that was the interior of a volcanic vent. It has spectacular view of Prickett Lake Backwaters and a majority of the Sturgeon River Gorge wilderness and surrounding forested countryside. The trail is steep with staircases leading to the summit and the hike takes about 45 minutes. Silver Mountain is also a favorite spot for rock climbers.

Don’t forget your fishing pole as Lake Gogebic has walleye, smallmouth bass, jumbo perch, and pike! Lake Gogebic is also a great place to make your base camp while exploring all the Ottawa National Forest has to offer.

Bruce Crossing, MI

The terrain and vegetation of the Ottawa National Forest provide a home to many species of wildlife. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars as it is best practice not to approach wildlife and to keep your distance.

Watersmeet, MI

Sylvania Wilderness Area in Ottawa National Forest is a great place to go and be in nature. The old growth forest is the perfect place to backcountry camp and the various lakes are packed full of wildlife and trophy fish! Rental gear is available at the local outfitter.

Sidnaw, MI

The Sturgeon River Gorge is a beautiful place to add to your Upper Peninsula fall color tour. Bears Den Overlook provides a 180 degree view out over the entire Sturgeon River Gorge. Keep your eyes open and watch for eagles soaring high above the gorge.

Baraga County, MI

The 16,861 acre McCormick Wilderness Area is one of the many wilderness areas of the Ottawa National Forest. It can get pretty wet during early spring and late winter so be prepared to hike with waterproof footwear.