Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground Introduce
For local residents in Northern Michigan seeking a tranquil and scenic "camping near me" experience, Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground, located on Shoepac Lake Rd, Onaway, MI 49765, USA, offers a potentially idyllic retreat. Reachable at (989) 785-4251 or +1 989-785-4251, this state forest campground, based on the available customer reviews, boasts a beautiful and secluded environment with unique features that set it apart. If you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature with lake access and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground is worth exploring.
One reviewer, while mentioning they haven't camped at Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground, confirms the area's natural beauty, stating, "Beautiful area. We have never camped here but have hiked and driven our SXS in the area." This suggests that the surroundings offer scenic landscapes suitable for various outdoor activities such as hiking and off-road vehicle (SXS) adventures. For local users who enjoy exploring nature through these means, the campground's location within a beautiful area is a significant draw.
Another reviewer provides more specific and enthusiastic feedback about the camping experience itself, describing the campground as a "gem" and urging others to keep it a secret: "Shhh. Don't tell everybody what a gem this place is." This sentiment underscores the special nature of the location, suggesting it offers a unique and highly desirable camping experience. The reviewer highlights its secluded nature, noting that it is "a bit off the beaten path," which is often a major appeal for those seeking a peaceful and less crowded camping destination away from the hustle and bustle. For local users prioritizing tranquility and immersion in nature, this seclusion is a significant advantage.
A key feature that distinguishes Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground is its lakefront setting. The reviewer mentions that "most of the campsites face the lake," offering campers the opportunity to enjoy beautiful lake views directly from their sites. Waking up to the sight of the lake and having easy access to the water enhances the camping experience, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for your stay. Lakefront camping is often highly sought after, and this campground seems to deliver on that front for many of its sites.
Adding to its appeal is the presence of a "beach," a feature that the reviewer notes "not many State campgrounds can offer." A beach provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing by the water's edge. This amenity makes Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground particularly attractive for families and anyone who enjoys water-based activities as part of their camping trip. The "Bonus!" exclamation further emphasizes the value of this relatively rare feature among state campgrounds.
The reviewer also reveals a unique and somewhat adventurous feature: "There's also a hidden swimmin' hole with a sandy bottom and tiny beach if you wanna go skinny dipping :)!" This suggests the presence of a more secluded and perhaps less formal swimming area within the vicinity of the campground, offering a more natural and private swimming experience. While the hint of "skinny dipping" adds a playful note, the existence of a sandy-bottomed swimming hole with a small beach indicates another option for enjoying the water beyond the main beach area.
As Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground is a state forest campground, it likely offers a range of standard amenities typically found in such facilities. These might include vault toilets, potable water sources, picnic tables, and fire rings at each campsite. However, state forest campgrounds often have a more rustic feel compared to state parks, with fewer developed amenities. Local users considering a stay should be prepared for a more nature-focused experience with potentially more basic facilities.
The reviews do not provide specific details about the number or types of campsites available, whether there are any electrical hookups, or the accessibility for RVs. Local users planning a trip should inquire about these details when contacting the campground. Similarly, information about reservation procedures, fees, and any specific rules or regulations for the campground would be essential for planning a visit.
Given the positive feedback emphasizing the beauty, seclusion, lakefront campsites, beach, and even a hidden swimming hole, Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground appears to be a hidden gem for local users seeking a "camping near me" experience that prioritizes natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. The proximity to hiking and ORV trails further enhances its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
To make the most of a potential camping trip to Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground, local residents should contact them directly at (989) 785-4251 or +1 989-785-4251. Inquire about campsite availability, the amenities offered at each site, the location of the beach and the hidden swimming hole, any regulations regarding hiking and ORV use in the area, and the reservation process. Understanding the specific features and rules will ensure a well-prepared and enjoyable "camping near me" experience at this beautiful and secluded lakeside campground.
Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground Photos









Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground Location
Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground
Shoepac Lake Rd, Onaway, MI 49765, USA
Tomahawk Lake State Forest CampgroundShoepac Lake Rd
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Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground Reviews
Beautiful area. We have never camped here but have hiked and driven our SXS in the area.
Feb 24, 2025 · Jesse PowellShhh. Don't tell everybody what a gem this place is. Secluded and a bit off the beaten path, most of the campsites face the lake. It also has a beach, which not many State campgrounds can offer. Bonus!There's also a hidden swimmin' hole with a sandy bottom and tiny beach if you wanna go skinny dipping :)!
Sep 17, 2021 · Mark WasiakSome very nice sites on the lake. Bathrooms are very clean. Never very crowded.
Sep 06, 2019 · JKU VenturesGreat campground on the shore of Tomahawk lake. Sites are decent sized and many are right on the lake. We bring our kayaks and paddle right from our site. I haven't tried fishing there yet, but we've seen numerous cases of fish rising in the evening.This campground is also ORV friendly with access to many many miles of ORV trails, routes and county (gravel) roads.
Jun 28, 2022 · Mike Hills (g33k247)Oh my gosh what can I say. This is such a nice place to camp. Went there for a week this summer. The beach was always empty which I do not know why. It's very small but the water is great. The sites are pretty nice sized and there are several different sections to camp at. Plenty of spaces but they do fill up in peak season for good reason.
Sep 27, 2020 · Shannon Hypio
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