Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground

The big lake is just big enough. We kayaked multiple times. Caught plenty of panfish and pike. Largies too. The sites are far enough apart to feel private but you can still see the people next to you. Lots of trees between campsites (we use hammock tents). Most sites have access to water and there’s a boat launch if needed. The dock is pretty huge too. Stargazing at night is awesome, of course. I’ve been back 6 times and going again this weekend…it has become a fave of ours.

Such a beautiful place, perfect for camping. It operates via honor box - you just register and leave money in a special box. Maybe I was lucky, but it was super quiet when we stopped there - maybe 2 or 3 other cars. The stars are so bright at night! I only wish we planned our trip better and bound stay there longer.

I brought my 9-year-old son here for his first camping trip. It was perfect for that. Good sized sites for tent camping. They all have a picnic table and fire pit. Dock was cool for fishing and stargazing at night.

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Big and Little Leverentz Lakes, Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground offers a delightful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated in Lake County, merely 2.7 miles east of Baldwin, this campground is a haven for paddlers, hikers, and fishing aficionados. Managed by the Baldwin Field Office, it promises a range of activities to make your stay memorable.

This rustic campground is divided into two sections, with sites 1-11 overlooking Big Leverentz Lake and sites 12-18 bordering Little Leverentz Lake. Both sections provide access to the Sheep Ranch Pathway, perfect for hikers eager to explore the area's natural beauty. However, fishing takes the spotlight here, as both lakes are home to an array of fish species including bass, bluegill, pike, perch, and crappie. And if you're up for more angling adventures, the Pere Marquette River is conveniently located five miles south.

Boating enthusiasts will be thrilled by the concrete plank boat launch on Big Leverentz Lake, complemented by a floating T-dock for fishing. Little Leverentz Lake features a small wooden dock, offering another serene spot for anglers.

The campground is equipped to cater to various camping preferences, with sites suitable for tents and small trailers. Some spots can even accommodate larger 30-foot trailers or vehicles. Camping stays are limited to a maximum of 15 days, ensuring a steady flow of nature enthusiasts. Essential amenities like vault toilets and potable water from a hand-pump well enhance the camping experience.

Traveling to the campground is convenient, with its location just 2.7 miles east of Baldwin via US-10 and Forest Drive. As with many state forest campgrounds, sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, eliminating the hassle of reservations. Whether you're into paddlesports, hiking, or fishing, Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground invites you to unwind in the midst of Michigan's scenic beauty. It's an outdoor paradise waiting to be explored, where the serenity of lakeside camping meets the thrill of outdoor adventures.

Amazing views in a camp ground seemingly tucked away from time. Big camp sites with very few others around. Bring something good to read!!

Even when the state park campgrounds are overflowing, the state forest campgrounds usually have room. They are first-come, first-served and we were at Leverentz Lake (near Baldwin) all Independence Day weekend with empty spots around us. If you're looking for a good boondocking spot on a small lake that offers some structure compared to just setting up in the woods, this might be an idea for you to consider. Sites are large enough for some bigger rigs, although the campground road is narrow and trees may make maneuvering tricky for very large rigs. The lake was great for kayaking to see wildlife and the cell service on Verizon and Google Fi was decent. Vault toilets and a hand pump for some fresh cold water are provided, along with a boat ramp and a fishing pier.

Beautiful in the fall. Dock is a bit old but thats okay just watch where you walk. The end forks off and if you go to the left it sinks a bit. Not horribly. Lots of trails. Gas station close. Good sized camping spots. Very friendly people. Took our dog. She loved barking at the squirrels. The fish are smart.. I did manage to catch a young sunfish. Nothing too exciting. I personally had more luck with worms than lures. Good luck and good camping.

Just happened upon this campground with my daughter & we loved it. Just a small campground with a pretty lake view. Fair amount of privacy & very quiet. Nice well-marked paths as well . We didn’t fish, but it seems to attract lots of people that do fish. Outhouses reasonably clean. Would definitely come back. Only complaint was that the firepits were full of ash.

Great rustic DNR state campground, lake, ramp, nice dock to fish from. This week the good size bluegill were biting, lots of nice stringers being taken. 18 camping lots, 3 miles from Baldwin. Enjoy the fun & BE HAPPY.

This is a very clean and picturesque place. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. We just stayed this past weekend and parked both campers ( 5th wheel and pull behind) in the same site. We are definitely going back. My son proposed to my future daughter-in-law this weekend too💞

Hidden gem near Baldwin I was never aware of until recently. Typical near rustic type camping. Nice location. Great for base in exploring area. Recommended

Stayed here Saturday night over 4th of July weekend. Hardly anyone here. Lots of room and privacy from other campers. Bathrooms not bad.

Nice big camp sites. Fairly decent toilets. Not a bad place to camp.

I like this place it's very peacefull not alot of people good fishing clean

always have an amazing time camping out here with my family

This place is gorgeous and just outside Baldwin is super convenient.

Nice, quiet place to camp.

Beautiful scenery with boat access and swimming

Nice wooded ara but bugs are bad

Great place to camp fish and hiking