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.

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Recreation Opportunities

Boating - Motorized (34)

Boating - Non-Motorized (35)

Swimming (47)

Showing: 11 - 20 of 57 results

Chicago Lake Campsites

Site Open

Even though Chicago Lake (188 acres) is a busy lake you can still see and hear loons. Four campsites and an improved boat launch can be found on Chicago Lake, all clustered around its north end. Site…

Clear Lake Campsite

Site Open

This site is located on the east side of Clear Lake at the boat launch access site.

Colwell Lake Campground

Site Closed

Colwell lake is 145 acres with an excellent swimming beach and boat access. Camping, fishing, picnicking and hiking are other popular recreation activities at Colwell Lake. Renovated in 1993, the…

Cookson Lake Campsites

Site Open

Cookson Lake is a 35 acre lake with two small islands. There are five primitive campsites located in a large open field on the south shore of the lake. No drinking water is available. A public boat…

Corner Lake Campground

Site Closed

Corner Lake is a 100 acre lake that offers camping, fishing, boating and a small swimming area for young children.

Council Lake Campsites

Site Open

The four primitive campsites are located in a mixed stand of hardwood and beech trees on the south shore of Council Lake. There is fishing in Council Lake for yellow perch, rock bass, bluegill,…

Crooked Lake Campsites

Site Open

Although there is only one campsite on Crooked Lake, the lake is busy with a private resort and many private homes and cabins dotting its lengthy shoreline. Anglers will find good fishing for…

Driftwood Campsite on Grand Island

Site Closed

Grand Island, a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area (NRA), boasts massive 300-foot wave-cut sandstone cliffs; 13,500 acres of lush forest; beaches of fine sand; winter ice caves; and…

Duck Lake Campsite on Grand Island

Site Closed

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…

East Lake Campsites

Site Open

Three primitive campsites are located on the 53 acre East Lake. East Lake has fishing for largemouth bass, perch, bluegill and bullheads. There is no drinking water at this location. A boat access is…