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Big Lake State Forest Campground Upper
Big Lake State Forest Campground Upper
Nestled on the east shore of Big Lake, this rustic campground offers 15 tent and small trailer sites. Enjoy direct access to the Baraga Plains ORV Trail and excellent fall waterfowl hunting in the Baraga Plains State Waterfowl Management Area, a well as paddling and fishing opportunities.
The campground is located 9.2 miles north of Covington via M-28 West, West Plains Road and Big Lake Road.
Amenities & activities
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At a glance
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Detailed view
Boat launch
Fishing
Hunting
ORV scramble area
ORV trails or routes
Paddling
Rustic sites
Vault toilet
Water access
Boat launch
There's a small concrete ramp suitable for small boats, canoes and kayaks.
Fishing
Perch, crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass can be caught in Big Lake.
Hunting
This campground provides access to state land open to hunting. Firearm hunting is not allowed within 450 feet of an occupied dwelling.
ORV trails or routes
The operation of an ORV and snowmobile between the campground and nearby trails is allowed. Baraga Plains ORV Trail is located 1.5 miles west of the campground and offers 28 miles of cycle/ATV trail.
Paddling
Big Lake provides excellent paddling opportunities for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. There is carry-in access within the campground.
Rustic sites
Vault toilet
Water access
This rustic campground is located on Big Lake.
What to expect, finding a site
These rustic campgrounds offer stunning river and lakefront settings, perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling. Here's what you can expect:
- No reservations. Sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- There are vault toilets.
- Potable (drinking) water is available from a hand-pump well.
- No electrical available.
- Overnight fees ($20 for most sites) and registration procedures are posted at the information kiosk at each campground.
- Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay.
- One camping unit and six people are allowed per site.
Area map
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Interactive map
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Printable PDF map
Rates, dates and more
Recreation Passport required
A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds.
Operating dates and amenities
View state forest campground rates. operating dates & amenities
State forest campground info
Find more info on state forest campgrounds.