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Water Activities

With so much water in and around the forest, there are ample opportunities to enjoy the lakes and rivers on the Hiawatha National Forest! Check us out for water activities!

The Hiawatha National Forest, located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is home to many miles of flowing water, including several designated National Wild and Scenic Rivers. Canoeing and kayaking are favorite pastimes of local area residents and visitors alike. Note that not all rivers are conducive for canoeing or kayaking as they are narrow or have many fallen trees.

Boating - Motorized

Motorized boats are allowed on several of our lakes and rivers. Boat ramps and/or launching piers are located at some of our sites.

Boating - Non-Motorized

Canoeing or non-motorized boats are allowed at several of our lakes and rivers.

Swimming

There are many lakes on the Hiawatha National Forest for your enjoyment.  Lifeguards are not present. Children should be accompanied in the water by an adult at all times.

Search for Water Activities Opportunities

Showing: 1 - 10 of 57 results

Au Train Lake Campground

Site Closed
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Picnicking Hiking
Au Train Lake is the largest inland lake in the area. It is an 830 acre lake with a maximum depth of 30 feet and an average depth of 12 feet The large size of this lake provides miles of prime water…

Bass Lake Campsites

Site Open
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
This enormous, 290 acre lake features one campsite on its western shore and an improved boat launch on its eastern shore, approximately 4 miles away. Known for its excellent fishing, Bass Lake…

Bay View Campground

Site Closed
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities Picnicking
Camp along the shores of Lake Superior - "By the shores of Gitche Gumee, by the Shining Big-Sea-Waters" - the greatest single body of fresh water in the world. Miles of sandy beach and beautiful…

Bear Lake Campsites

Site Open
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
This gorgeous 21 acre lake is nestled down among paper birch, aspen and oak and features one campsite high upon a hill overlooking the lake. A carry-in boat launch is intended to prevent over fishing…

Bermuda Campsite on Grand Island

Site Closed
Water Activities
Some of the highlights of Grand Island, a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area (NRA) include:Massive 300-foot wave-cut sandstone cliffs13,500 acres of lush forestBeaches of fine…

Big Pine Picnic Area

Site Open
Picnicking Outdoor Science and Learning Water Activities
Big Pine Picnic Area, along the shoreline of Lake Superior (the greatest body of freshwater in the world), is one of the most awesome places and a must-see on your next trip to the Hiawatha National…

Brevoort Lake Campground

Site Closed
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Picnicking
Brevoort Lake Campground is a tent, RV and trailer-friendly campground that stretches onto a peninsula dividing Boedne Bay from the rest of Brevoort Lake. View available campsites or make a…

Camp 7 Lake Campground

Site Closed
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Picnicking
Camp 7 Lake is a 60-acre lake that offers swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as camping and picnicking. A nature trail is nearby. The excellent location, beautiful setting, and many activities…

Carr Lake Campsites

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities
Campers will typically find seclusion and privacy at this small, 16 acre lake. The campsite is fairly roomy (70 ft. by 40 ft), grassy and suitable for 2 families. Access to the lake is by carry-in…

Channel Marker Campsite on Grand Island

Site Closed
Water Activities
Some of the highlights of Grand Island, a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area (NRA) include:Massive 300-foot wave-cut sandstone cliffs13,500 acres of lush forestBeaches of fine…

Last updated March 6th, 2025