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Map showing campground location near Sanford, Michigan
Camper submitted image from Black Creek State Forest CampgroundView 6 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Sanford, Michigan

Black Creek State Forest Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Forest roads wind through Black Creek State Forest Campground, where campers find a mix of creek-side and secluded sites spread across wooded terrain. This state-managed campground operates from mid-May through mid-September, charging $15 per night plus the Michigan recreation passport fee for new visitors.

The self-registration system requires cash or check payment, with campers selecting their own sites before completing paperwork at numbered posts. Vault toilets with hand sanitizer serve the campground, and lindsay S. notes the facilities stay "clean" with regular DNR check-ins. Sites accommodate big rigs and provide picnic tables, though campers report hearing road traffic throughout much of the day from the nearby highway.

Creek access draws visitors to waterfront spots, while other sites offer more privacy tucked back in the trees. Cell service reaches the campground, and both campfires and alcohol are permitted. The campground allows pets and provides drinking water on-site. For additional camping options in the region, visitors can explore places to camp near Sanford.

The Chippewa Nature Center sits roughly 10 miles away, offering trails and historical exhibits for day trips from the campground.

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Location

Public Campground

Black Creek State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

From town: Go 14 mi SE on Hwy 72.

Coordinates

43.71190003 N
84.39852067 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 7/21/25

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 7/21/25

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the large, well-kept sites and clean facilities as highlights. Traffic noise was a recurring concern that affected the camping experience for some visitors.

l
Reviewed Aug. 25, 2025

Black Creek State Forest Campground

Pull up, grab a registration envelope, look for a spot then part. Fill out the registration. Put one portion of it on the clip at the spot number market, keep another portion then return the completed envelope and $20 cash or check per night plus $19 for Michigan recreation passport (if you don’t already have one). They will mail you the passport, keep receipt for proof. Vault toilets available, some river spots, some secluded spots, clean. Saw DNR in the morning checking on everything.

Site15
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Black Creek State Forest Campground by lindsay S., August 25, 2025
  • Review photo of Black Creek State Forest Campground by lindsay S., August 25, 2025
  • Review photo of Black Creek State Forest Campground by lindsay S., August 25, 2025
J
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2021

Rustic State Forest Campground

Black Creek State Forest Campground has huge sites with shade and sun; clean vault toilets with hand sanitizer; creek views and is very quiet despite a little road noise.  Definitely recommend for someone looking for a mid-Michigan get-away.  

The Chippewa Nature Center is about 10 miles away and has great trails; excellent visitor center and reconstructed 19th century homestead.

SiteSite 17 has a water view and is huge and level
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Black Creek State Forest Campground by Judy , July 11, 2021
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Black Creek State Forest Campground?

Black Creek State Forest Campground offers spacious sites with a mix of shaded and sunny spots. The campground features clean vault toilets equipped with hand sanitizer. Some sites provide views of the creek. Each campsite has a designated marker with a clip for registration. The campground maintains well-kept sites and provides a rustic camping experience while still being accessible. No electricity or running water is available, so campers should come prepared with their own supplies for a self-sufficient stay.

What activities can I do near Black Creek State Forest Campground?

The campground's creek provides opportunities for water-based activities. Nearby, you can visit the Chippewa Nature Center (about 10 miles away) for hiking trails and nature education. The area also has a newly built Senior Center close to the campground. The surrounding forest offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and exploring woodland trails. While the campground itself is quiet, its mid-Michigan location makes it convenient for day trips to other regional attractions. The natural setting is ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway with simple outdoor recreation options.

Where is Black Creek State Forest Campground located in Michigan?

Black Creek State Forest Campground is located in mid-Michigan, making it an accessible getaway for residents from surrounding areas. The campground is situated alongside a creek, providing natural water views. It's positioned near a road, which offers easy access but does create some traffic noise throughout the day. The location is approximately 10 miles from the Chippewa Nature Center. This central Michigan setting makes it convenient for weekend trips while still providing a forest camping experience without having to travel to more remote parts of the state.

Do I need reservations for Black Creek State Forest Campground?

No reservations are required at Black Creek State Forest Campground. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a self-registration system. Upon arrival, grab a registration envelope, find an available site, and then complete the registration form. Place one portion on the clip at your site's number marker and keep another portion for yourself. Return the completed envelope with payment ($20 per night cash or check) to the designated location. Remember that a Michigan Recreation Passport ($19) is also required if you don't already have one.

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