Nestled in the heart of Shingleton, Michigan, Cusino Lake State Forest Campground is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape. This campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, exceptional facilities, and a peaceful environment that makes it a must-visit destination for campers and RV enthusiasts alike.
With six spacious campsites, each situated along the water with sandy entry points, Cusino Lake State Forest Campground is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying the serene surroundings. The campground is known for its well-maintained facilities, including clean bathrooms, new fire rings, and sturdy picnic tables. The absence of light pollution makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, while the quiet atmosphere ensures a truly relaxing experience.
One of the standout features of this campground is its dedicated caretaker, affectionately referred to as "Ranger Rick" by visitors. His meticulous attention to detail and friendly demeanor have earned high praise from campers. He even provides maps of the area to help visitors explore the nearby attractions.
While the lake may not be ideal for swimming, it offers excellent fishing opportunities. The campground is also conveniently located near dirt roads, making it accessible yet remote enough to feel like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, visitors should be prepared for aggressive mosquitoes during the summer months and bring appropriate repellent.
Here’s what some happy campers have to say about their experience:
Whether you're an avid camper or just looking for a quiet retreat in nature, Cusino Lake State Forest Campground promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your gear, leave nothing but footprints, and take nothing but memories from this beautiful slice of Michigan wilderness.
RV water hookup
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Good for kids
On-site parking
It was peaceful, gorgeous, and empty. We were the only people camping all weekend and it was great! All of the sites (6 total) are on water with sandy entry points (great for the kayaks). We met the kind gentleman who takes care of this park - and others in the area - who was amazing and even gave us maps of the area. Nice picnic tables, new fire rings, and did I mention that this state forest campground has the cleanest, least smelly, best maintained bathroom that I've ever been to?! We've been to a lot of campgrounds and this one... 10/10 will pee here again! Typically, I take my chances with nature behind an outhouse due to the smell being something maggots would gag about but not this place! "Ranger Rick" as we decided we would call him - after not getting his name - does a great job and should be training others on how it's done. Mosquitoes were quite aggressive, but the summertime perfume for northern Michigan (Deet) seemed to keep them away. The stars and the silence at night are something else entirely up here. So don't go to this state forest campground, it's terrible, you won't have a good time, it's honestly probably haunted, definitely where Sasquatch lives... leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures (and maybe a couple of wildflowers to press at home) ✌️
Loved this campsite. 5 campsites very quite, no light pollution, no cell service, dirt roads, lake not the best for swimming but good for fishing, has one vaulted toilet and a pump. Love this place.
Best campground ever. So little and cute, clean, nice forest, beautiful lake. And the STARS😍
Loved the tranquility and amount of space per camping spaces. The stars at night are spectacular ✨️
Extremely cute 🥰 and peaceful
I love this place very quiet and beautiful lake.