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Van Etten Lake State Forest Campground

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Van Etten Lake State Forest Campground

Overlooking Van Etten Lake, near Wurtsmith Air Force Base, this rustic campground offers 49 versatile sites for tents, small trailers and large trailers. Campers will enjoy fishing on the 1,320-acre lake. Sites 36-46 have direct lake access via footpaths, and a picturesque walking path lines the water's edge. A boating access site is in the campground. Sites 12, 38 and 48 are accessible.

The campground is located near the Iron Belle Trail, which can be accessed south of the campground via F41 and River Road.

The campground is located 4.5 miles northwest of Oscoda via US-23 and F-41.

Advisory

MDHHS has issued consumption guidelines for fish with elevated PFOS levels and an advisory to avoid swallowing foam for Van Etten Lake as high levels of PFAS may be present. Find consumption guidelines for fish with elevated PFOS levels.

Amenities & activities

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Biking

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Boat launch

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Fishing

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Hunting

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ORV trails or routes

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Paddling

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Rustic sites

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Snowmobiling

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Vault toilet

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Water access

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Biking

The campground is located near the Iron Belle Trail, which can be accessed south of the campground via F41 and River Road.

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Boat launch

A boating access stie is located in the south side of the campground.

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Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity on Van Etten Lake where perch, walleye, pike, and bass can be caught.

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Hunting

This campground provides access to state land open to hunting. Firearm hunting is not allowed within 450 feet of an occupied dwelling.

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ORV trails or routes

Old State House ORV Trailhead is 5.5 miles southwest of Van Etten campground. ORVs and snowmobiles are prohibited in the campground.

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Paddling

Paddling is a popular activity in the lake.

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Rustic sites

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Snowmobiling

Old State House trailhead is 5.5 miles southwest of Van Etten campground. ORVs and snowmobiles are prohibited in the campground.

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Vault toilet

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Water access

This rustic campground is located on Van Etten Lake.

Area map

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.

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Recreate Responsibly

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Camping rules

Guidelines for camping in a state forest.

Photos