Emily Lake State Forest Campground Camping Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Emily Lake State Forest Campground, located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (not Illinois), offers 12 rustic, first-come, first-served campsites—no reservations or permits required.
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Summary
Fees apply (typically around $15/night). The campground features pit toilets, hand-pump water, fire rings, picnic tables, and no hookups, making it ideal for tent campers and small RVs. Nestled in a quiet, forested setting along scenic Emily Lake, it offers a peaceful, remote vibe perfect for fishing, paddling, and unplugging. Nearby attractions include Ottawa National Forest and hiking trails. Best visited in summer or early fall for mild weather and beautiful foliage. Note: No dispersed camping is permitted within the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations |
|---|---|
Emily Lake State Forest Campground
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Emily Lake State Forest
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Courtney Lake
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Courtney Lake Campground
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Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sturgeon River Near Alston
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358cfs |
Ontonagon River Near Rockland
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1100cfs |
Sturgeon River Near Sidnaw
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227cfs |
Silver River Near L'Anse
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156cfs |
Trap Rock River Near Lake Linden
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86cfs |
Bond Falls Canal Near Paulding
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91cfs |
Camping Essential Practices
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.
Related Links
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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TWIN LAKES 0.2 SW
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0" |
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BARAGA 7NW
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0" |
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PAINESDALE
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0" |
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NOHRSC ONTONAGON 1.8 ESE
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0" |
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NOHRSC ATLANTIC MINE 3.9 NW
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0" |
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JACOBSVILLE
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0" |
Campground Lane Elm River Township