Monocle Lake

One of Michigan’s top lakeside camping destinations is Monocle Lake Campground. If you’re looking for the perfect place to escape the bustle of the city and the stress of daily life, you’ve found it! The campground is located in the wilderness of Hiawatha National Forest, and this amazing setting gives you the opportunity to totally immerse yourself in nature — you can relax and enjoy views of the lake or venture out and explore the forest’s many hiking trails. Monocle Lake Campground is also pet-friendly, so your canine companion can accompany you throughout your stay!

The campground has 27 sites that are open for overnight camping or day use. The nightly fee for a site is $16, and the fee for day use is $5. Sites can accommodate up to eight campers, and they are equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings with grills. You also have access to drinking water, a picnic area, and a boat ramp at the campground.

Monocle Lake is a great place to enjoy aquatic activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. However, due to boat traffic during peak periods, guests note that the fishing isn't as plentiful when the campground is busy. Though dogs are prohibited from swimming at most campgrounds, Monocle Lake seems to have a relaxed attitude toward canine swimmers. While some guests let their dogs swim freely, we advise keeping your pal on-leash when exploring the water.

There is also a 14.5-mile trail next to the lake that you can explore. For more hiking options, you can head to some of the other great trails in the area. Trout Pond to Maple Hill Trail is a popular, dog-friendly trail that's pawfect for furry friends looking for a challenge. This moderate trail spans about 8.5 miles past babbling brooks and small hills. For a slightly easier hike, check out Mission Hill Trail. It runs just under four miles and also welcomes furry friends on-leash. You’ll have some views of the lake at the beginning of your hike, and as you proceed, you’ll go deeper into the forest.

Your dog should remain on-leash throughout your stay at Monocle Lake Campground. Please clean up after your pooch to keep this wagtastic spot dog-friendly for years to come!