Clear Lake-Modern Campground

Clear Lake State Park

Address

Phone

800-447-2757

Approximate Size

(Acres)

Recreation Passport

Required

Trail Length

Trail Head

Camp Sites/Fees

(178)

Make a Reservation

More Information

The planned park enhancements to upgrade water distribution, the toilet and shower building and sanitation station have been postponed. The campground will now close Aug. 4 for the remainder of the 2025 season. As a result, camping reservations between Feb. 21 to Aug. 3 will become available in the reservation system at 8 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. The Tiny Elk Cabin is not impacted. These projects are made possible thanks to a proposed $4.65M in federal relief funding from Gov. Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan.

The modern campground is divided into two loops, the upper and lower loops, with several pull-through sites. The sites vary in size, are shaded by oaks and pines, and are within view of Clear Lake. The campground has its own designated swimming beach and a boating access site. Recycling is available.

This park allows the operation of an ORV between the campground and nearby ORV trails. Riders can access the Atlanta ORV route and the Michigan Cross Country Cycle Trail from the park. An ORV trailhead parking lot is located across from the park’s contact station.

About the Area

View Online Visitor's Guide

The park is located in the Mackinaw State Forest, which is comprises the northern eight counties of the Lower Peninsula. Deer, elk, turkey and small game are plentiful. Elk can often be seen and heard throughout the area in the early morning and evening, especially during the spring and fall.

Rain or shine, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary creates lasting memories! Explore interactive exhibits or embark on a glass-bottom boat tour over shipwrecks. Visit Visit thunderbay.noaa.gov.

Activities (Display as List)

ORV Trails/Routes

ORV Trails/Routes: The park is one of just a few state parks that allow the operation of an ORV between the campground and nearby ORV trails. Riders can access the Atlanta ORV route and the Michigan Cross Country Cycle Trail from the park. An ORV trailhead parking lot is located across from the park’s contact station.

Swimming

Swimming: A campers-only designated swim area is in the campground.

Winter Camping

Winter Camping: The campground is open year-round; however, there are no open bathrooms/showers or running water October through April. Potable water is available at headquarters.