Badger Campground

Hello, fellow Michiganders who cherish the true essence of wilderness camping! If your ideal escape involves the peaceful tranquility of the Upper Peninsula, nights illuminated by starlight, and days spent immersed in nature without the frills of modern amenities, then Badger Campground near Watersmeet, Michigan, is a spot you absolutely need to know about. Nestled on a hillside with scenic views of Crooked Lake, this rustic campground within the vast Ottawa National Forest offers a back-to-basics experience that resonates deeply with those of us who appreciate Michigan's untamed beauty. It's a place where you can truly unplug, embrace the sounds of the forest, and reconnect with the simple joys of outdoor living.

For us, the residents of Michigan, the Upper Peninsula is a unique treasure, and discovering hidden gems like Badger Campground reinforces why we love living here. While it's important to prepare for the elements, including the infamous U.P. mosquitoes and biting flies as noted by fellow campers, the reward is a genuine and affordable wilderness experience. This campground is part of the Ottawa National Forest's direct management, meaning it maintains a rustic charm without the higher fees often associated with private concessions. Its first-come, first-served policy, and even free camping during the off-season, offer unparalleled flexibility for spontaneous adventures, whether you're chasing the vibrant fall colors or seeking solitude in the quieter months. It’s a wonderful opportunity to truly embrace the wild side of Michigan, making it an ideal choice for tent campers, motorcycle campers, or anyone seeking a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Badger Campground is located within the Ottawa National Forest near Watersmeet, MI 49969, USA. More specifically, it is situated on a hillside overlooking Crooked Lake, one of the many beautiful bodies of water in this part of Michigan's western Upper Peninsula. Its placement deep within the National Forest underscores its rustic and secluded nature.

Access to Badger Campground involves navigating forest service roads, which are generally well-maintained but may vary in condition depending on the season and recent weather. From the town of Watersmeet, you would typically head south on US-45, then turn onto a designated forest road that leads to the campground. While a specific detailed route beyond the general address (Watersmeet, MI 49969) is not widely published for this rustic site, visitors should anticipate well-marked signage within the Ottawa National Forest guiding them to the campground once they are in the vicinity of Watersmeet. Its proximity to Crooked Lake is a key draw, offering immediate access to a scenic water body. For those seeking supplies, the town of Watersmeet, while small, offers basic necessities like gas stations where firewood can often be found, as highlighted by a previous visitor. This balance of being immersed in nature yet having a nearby town for essentials makes it a convenient choice for a rustic experience.

As a rustic campground operated by the U.S. Forest Service within the Ottawa National Forest, Badger Campground provides basic, essential services designed for a traditional, self-sufficient camping experience. Expectations should be set accordingly, as it is not equipped with modern amenities like electricity or running water at individual sites.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground offers a limited number of designated rustic campsites. These sites are typically clearings suitable for tent camping, or small RVs, and come equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table.

• Vault Toilets: Pit toilets (outhouses), referred to as "latrines" in the provided reviews, are available within the campground. While basic, reviewers note that these facilities are generally kept clean and well-maintained.

• No Potable Water: Unlike some other campgrounds, Badger Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, or be prepared to filter/treat water from natural sources like Crooked Lake.

• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at any of the campsites, reinforcing its rustic designation. Campers must be fully self-sufficient.

• First-Come, First-Served: Sites at Badger Campground are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means no advance reservations are taken; campers simply arrive and claim an open site.

• Affordable Fees: During the peak season (typically May through September), a modest fee is charged for overnight stays. However, a significant benefit is that camping is often free during the off-season (October through April) when services like water are not provided.

This minimalist approach ensures that the focus remains on the natural environment and provides an authentic wilderness feel.

Badger Campground, though rustic, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a cherished spot for those who visit the Watersmeet area of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

• Scenic Lake Views: A major draw, as highlighted by a reviewer, is that "many sites right on the lake" with a "view of Crooked Lake." Waking up to these serene lake vistas is a truly memorable part of the experience.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: The campground is consistently described as "small, clean, basic, quiet." While a "very small amount of road noise" may be present, it generally offers a tranquil escape, ideal for those seeking solitude and a break from busy environments.

• Ideal for Rustic Camping: Its basic amenities (fire rings and pit toilets only) cater perfectly to tent campers, motorcycle campers, and those with small, self-contained RVs who prefer a minimalist approach to camping and appreciate a more authentic wilderness feel.

• Affordable Camping & Senior Discounts: The modest fees during the season and the option for free camping during the off-season make it a highly budget-friendly option. Senior discounts, as mentioned in a review, further enhance its accessibility.

• Excellent for Fall Colors: One reviewer specifically points out that "you may even have the place to yourself during peak fall colors," making it an exceptional spot to witness Michigan's vibrant autumn foliage in peaceful solitude.

• Proximity to Crooked Lake: Beyond the views, the campground's proximity to Crooked Lake allows for easy access for fishing, paddling (canoe, kayak), and general enjoyment of the water. While the main swimming beach isn't directly adjacent, a very nice one is just a short drive away on the same lake.

• Friendly Host: A "real nice guy" as a host contributes positively to the camping experience, adding a welcoming touch to the rustic setting.

For inquiries regarding Badger Campground, including information on its seasonal operation, fees, or general conditions, it is best to contact the appropriate U.S. Forest Service Ranger District that oversees this area of the Ottawa National Forest.

Address: F S 8500, Marenisco, MI 49947, USA (While the campground is near Watersmeet, this specific address refers to a Forest Service road that often leads to such campgrounds. For broader contact, refer to the Ranger District.)

Phone: (906) 932-1330 (This is the phone number for the Bessemer Ranger District, which manages campgrounds in the Marenisco/Watersmeet area of the Ottawa National Forest. This would be the best point of contact for information about Badger Campground.)

(Note: As a first-come, first-served campground, direct reservations are not typically made via phone for individual sites.)

In conclusion, Badger Campground in Watersmeet, Michigan, offers a distinct and highly suitable camping experience for us, the local residents of Michigan, particularly those drawn to the rugged charm of the Upper Peninsula. While its rustic nature means campers must be self-sufficient (and pack plenty of DEET for the mosquitoes and biting flies!), the benefits far outweigh the minor inconveniences. The opportunity to camp directly on a hillside overlooking Crooked Lake, in a small, quiet, and clean environment, is a unique draw.

For Michiganders, this means an affordable and authentic wilderness escape is readily available, whether for a spontaneous weekend getaway or a longer, more contemplative retreat. The "first-come, first-served" policy and potential for free off-season camping make it highly accessible and budget-friendly. It's a place where the focus is truly on connecting with nature, enjoying the serene lake, and experiencing the untouched beauty of the Ottawa National Forest. For those seeking a genuine, uncommercialized camping adventure in Michigan's U.P., Badger Campground is an excellent and highly recommended choice, promising peace, natural beauty, and a chance to truly unwind.