Map showing campground location near Millersburg, Michigan

Camper submitted image from Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground

Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground

Anglers and paddlers will find direct water access at Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground, where roughly half of the 12 sites provide lakefront positioning. The campground divides into three separate units, with Lake Tomahawk connected to the first section while the third unit sits across from the road leading to nearby Shoepac sinkholes.

Several waterfront sites include their own small beach areas, though these fill quickly during peak season. The lake supports fishing and swimming, with a boat launch connecting to a short trail from the designated beach area. Hand-pump water, picnic tables, fire rings, and maintained pit toilets serve all sites, while a campground host provides on-site assistance—uncommon for state forest facilities. Firewood is available for purchase near the host site.

"Many with direct lake access" characterizes the layout, as Nicole V. notes in her review. The forested setting within Atlanta State Forest Area puts campers close to natural attractions like Oqueoc Falls and hiking trails. Wildlife encounters are frequent—chipmunks show little fear around campsites, while ticks remain abundant throughout the season.

The first-come, first-served campground operates year-round with a 20-foot RV length limit. Campers can explore sites around Atlanta State Forest Area or check nearby Shoepac Lake State Forest Campground for additional options.

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Location

Public Campground

Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Coordinates

45.23198246 N
84.16543827 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 4/3/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 4/3/26
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group
Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Reservable
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 58 min from Traverse City, MI
2 hrs 10 min from Bay City, MI
2 hrs 19 min from Saginaw, MI
2 hrs 20 min from Midland, MI

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the large, private lakefront sites and clean rustic facilities at this first-come, first-served state forest campground. Many mentioned excellent lake access for swimming and fishing, plus proximity to natural attractions.

Nicole V.

Guide

Reviewed May. 27, 2024

Slice of paradise!

This hidden gem has large private sites..many with direct lake access. There is a beach/swim area as well as a small trail from the beach to the boat launch. Good fishing and clean outhouses too!

Site10

Month of VisitMay

(5) View All

James P.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 26, 2021

Perfect Rustic Campground

This first come, first served rustic state campground is perfect for the nature enthusiast. Butting up to Tomahawk Lake and surrounded by the Atlanta State Forest Area, you are close to Oqueoc Falls, hiking trails, and other natural wonders northern Michigan has to offer. Chipmunks are fearless, so keep an eye on your food. Ticks are abundant so check yourself and your group frequently.

Site7

Month of VisitJune

(8) View All

Kate K.

Legend

Reviewed Aug. 20, 2019

Loved the lake👍

This campground was larger than expected and had some very nice lake front sites. It also surprisingly had a campground host, which is rare at state forest campgrounds. There are only about 10 lake front sites, but they were all very nice. A few even had their own beach (but those were taken). The lake itself was gorgeous and had a nice launch for paddling, fishing, and swimming. Campground had all the usual rustic state forest amenities, pit toilets, water pump, picnic tables, and fire rings. I think there might have even been a place to buy firewood near the host.

Rachel K.

Guide

Reviewed May. 7, 2018

Loons and sinkholes

Found this campgrounds while going to the Shoepac sinkholes, it's broken up into 3 units, we stayed at the last unit across from the road to the sinkhole. Only maybe 12 sites and about half with waterfront access to the little lake. Lake tomahawk is attached to the first unit.

Hand pump water, picnic table, fire ring, decently tended outhouse, bring a bandsaw for plenty of wood, and gas station/ but shop not far. We also heard lots of looks in August.

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground located in Michigan?

Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground is located in northern Michigan within the Atlanta State Forest Area. The campground is situated directly on Tomahawk Lake and positioned near several natural attractions. It's close to the Shoepac sinkholes and Oqueoc Falls, with convenient access to numerous hiking trails throughout the surrounding forest. The campground's location makes it an excellent base for exploring the natural wonders northern Michigan has to offer.

Are there photos available of Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground?

Photos of Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground are available on various camping websites and Michigan DNR resources. These images typically showcase the campground's large, private sites, many with direct lake access, as well as the beach/swimming area. Photos often highlight the natural beauty of the surrounding Atlanta State Forest Area, the lakefront views, and the rustic camping setup. For the most current and comprehensive visual overview, check the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website or popular camping platforms where visitors frequently share their camping experiences.

Does Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground experience flooding issues?

There are no indications of flooding issues at Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground. The campground's layout includes elevated sites that provide good drainage, with many positioned along the lakeshore but at a safe distance from potential water level fluctuations. The campground's three distinct units are designed with natural topography in mind, minimizing flooding concerns. Even the waterfront sites appear to maintain appropriate elevation from the lake. For the most current conditions, especially after heavy rain periods, contact the Michigan DNR or the campground host who is typically on-site.

What amenities are available at Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground?

Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground offers rustic camping amenities including hand pump water, pit toilets/outhouses that are well-maintained, and a beach/swimming area. The campground features waterfront access at several sites, with about 10 lake front spots available. There's also a boat launch connected to the beach area by a small trail. The campground is divided into three separate units, with a campground host typically on-site to assist visitors. For those seeking recreational opportunities, the location provides good fishing in Tomahawk Lake.

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Description

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Location

Coordinates

Connectivity

Connectivity

Access

Site Types

Features

For Campers

For Vehicles

Contact

Drive Time

Where is Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground located in Michigan?

Are there photos available of Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground?

Does Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground experience flooding issues?

What amenities are available at Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground?