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Recreation

Trails webpages and information will not be available until May 2025. Thank you for your patience while we work through getting the most updated, accurate information for you during this time.

From vast wildernesses to stunning waterfalls, exploring the Ottawa takes you into a different world. With an average annual snowfall of 200", winter sports enthusiasts will find Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, dogsledding and ice fishing for most months the year.

Lightly used campgrounds and far-flung trails make it easy to find solitude no matter what time of year you visit. Although the forest is home to many furry friends, including bear, coyotes, wolves and deer so you'll never be alone.

With over 500 named lakes and 2,000 miles of rivers and streams it's a fisherman's paradise, from walk-in lakes, streams and rivers, to access to the depths of Lake Superior at Black Harbor Recreation Area.

2025 Fee Free Days

  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: January 20, 2025
  • National Get Outdoors Day: June 14, 2025
  • Juneteenth: June 19, 2025
  • National Public Lands Day: September 27, 2025
  • Veterans Day: November 11, 2025

*Does not apply to camping, OHV, or concession sites.

Free Fishing Weekend

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Free Fishing Weekend dates for 2025 are:

  • Feb. 15 - 16
  • June 7 - 8.

All fishing license fees will be waived for two days.

Know Before You Go

Passes and Permits

Campsite at Bobcat Lake Campground

Maps and Guides

An out of focus map

Contact the Visitor Center

Visitor Center

Safety and Ethics

High Five with Smokey

Showing: 1 - 10 of 50 results

Agate Falls

Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
These scenic waterfalls are nestled under a railroad trestle, adding historical interest to the already picturesque falls. The trail to the falls is not long but is moderately difficult in grade. The…

Ajibikoka Falls

Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
It is not particularly difficult terrain, but you should have a good map and compass. This is quite a long fall, about 40 feet, and the area surrounding it contains quartz outcroppings. This is…

Bass Lake

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Bass Lake is a small lake located just east of Hagerman Lake but don't let the size fool you. There is plenty of good fishing on this lake. 

Black River Harbor Recreation Area

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Water Activities Picnicking Scenic Drives
Known for its spectacular waterfalls, idyllic beaches, scenic hiking trails, and tranquil campground, the Black River Harbor Recreation Area is a popular destination throughout the year. Originating…

Bob Lake Campground

Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning Water Activities Picnicking Hiking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Bob Lake Campground, located in Houghton County, is 18 miles southeast of Ontonagon, MI, in the Ontonagon Ranger District. This campground features a single loop with 17 campsites which are spaced…

Bobcat Lake Campground

Site Open
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Picnicking
Located in Gogebic County, just 3 miles southeast of Marenisco, Mi., on the Bessemer Ranger District in the southern half of the Ottawa National Forest. Bobcat Lake campground features one loop with…

Bond Falls Watefalls

Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
Although not part of the Ottawa National Forest, this beautiful waterfalls is surrounded by the Ottawa National Forest. One of the most popular Upper Peninsula waterfalls. Managed by the U.P. Power…

Brule Lake

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Picnicking
Brule Lake located on the Michigan and Wisconsin border provides excellent fishing with a good variety. This has two boat ramps, one on the north end and one on the south end of the lake.  Also…

Burned Dam Campground

Site Open
Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Outdoor Science and Learning
This rustic campground provides visitors with access to deep woods with fishing and canoeing opportunities on the Middle Branch of the Ontonagon River. This dispersed campground is just a short walk…

Camp Nesbit Environmental Center

Site Open
Nestled in the beautiful northwoods of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Camp Nesbit Environmental Center is the perfect setting for exploring the natural world. Built by the CCC, this residential…