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Map showing campground location near Bitely, Michigan
Camper submitted image from Sawkaw LakeView 15 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near Bitely, Michigan

Sawkaw Lake

6 ReviewsAdd Review

Boaters and anglers find direct lake access at this dispersed camping area within Manistee National Forest. Sawkaw Lake sits alongside Little Half Moon Lake, with multiple camping spots scattered around the shoreline offering views across the water. The area connects to the North Country Trail system for hikers looking to explore the surrounding forest.

Sites here are large but positioned close to each other, though weekday visits often mean having the area to yourself. A new vault toilet serves the camping area, and established fire rings make evening campfires straightforward. Campers can collect firewood from the abundant deadfall in the surrounding woods. Fiona found it offered "lake view and deep forest all around" with "easy access to North Country Trail."

The access road can present navigation challenges, with some visitors reporting unclear signage and difficulty locating the actual camping spots. Recent signage mentions permits may be required, though enforcement appears inconsistent based on visitor reports. Cell service reaches the area, making it accessible for those who need connectivity. For additional camping options in the region, explore campgrounds around Bitely.

This spot works well for campers comfortable with dispersed camping who want lake access and don't mind neighbors during busy periods.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Sawkaw Lake is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

43.76294101 N
85.89773036 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 50 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 50 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Sawkaw Lake needs a permit.

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General Info

Drive Time

Reviews

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5 Stars

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1 Star

67%
17%
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17%

4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the large, scenic lakefront sites and new facilities as major draws. Most found the area peaceful and well-equipped, though one visitor had navigation issues finding proper camping spots.

RThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 29, 2025

Doesn't exist and says "no camping"

We went down the path and it says to make it right when there's no road that goes to the right. We drove three and a half hours to get here and now we've got to figure out where we're going to stay for the night. And the only spot that looked like a campable spot says no camping. There's a stake in the ground that says it.

Month of VisitSeptember
tThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 2, 2025

Small and quiet

Not a lot of privacy between sites, but they are very large so you don’t feel on top of another and having the lake right there was nice

Site8
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by tony N., September 2, 2025
Ileene R.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 1, 2025

Peaceful

There are signs on the sites saying permit required, but no info for that purpose. No one else had them so I stayed. May be ramping up to making it a paid site, toilet is nice. Lake has boat access. There are fire rings and lots of wood to collect. Not tons of trash but I cleaned up some left in fire pit.

Site1
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by Ileene R., September 1, 2025
lThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed May. 15, 2024

Peaceful

Beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around. Might change by Friday.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by lori T., May 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by lori T., May 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by lori T., May 15, 2024
  • (5) View All
Jay D.
Reviewed Jun. 10, 2022

Little Half Moon Lake

Found several spots around Sawkaw Lake, to include Little Half Moon Lake which is right next to it. Nice and quite. Depending on the spot, there could be some people around, but most the most part, it was pretty tranquil. There are even some hike paths around the area.

SiteLittle Half Moon Lake Site
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by Jay D., June 10, 2022
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by Jay D., June 10, 2022
FThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Oct. 8, 2021

It's quite deep in the forest

Was planning on staying at Highbank Campground but it was closed. Thankfully had the Dyrt App to see this spot.

It was a great little dispersed camping spot. Brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around. Easy access to North Country Trail.

Loved it!

SiteSite 7
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by Fiona , October 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by Fiona , October 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Sawkaw Lake by Fiona , October 8, 2021
  • (4) View All
Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Sawkaw Lake Campground?

Sawkaw Lake Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The site features a brand new vault toilet, established fire rings, and spacious campsites with lake views. Sites are generally large, though somewhat close to neighboring campsites. There's ample firewood available to collect throughout the surrounding forest area. While the campground provides essential facilities for comfortable dispersed camping, don't expect developed amenities like electricity, running water, or shower facilities.

What recreational activities can I enjoy at Sawkaw Lake?

Sawkaw Lake offers numerous recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake provides excellent boating access, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Hikers can explore the North Country Trail which is easily accessible from the campground, along with several other hiking paths in the surrounding area. The deep forest setting is perfect for wildlife viewing and nature photography. Little Half Moon Lake is also nearby, providing additional water recreation options. Weekdays typically offer a more tranquil experience for those seeking solitude in nature.

How do I make reservations for Sawkaw Lake Campground?

Sawkaw Lake Campground appears to be transitioning to a permit system. Currently, there are signs indicating permits are required, but the reservation process isn't clearly established. The campground operates primarily as a first-come, first-served dispersed camping area. To ensure availability and understand current permit requirements, contact the local Forest Service office or land management agency before your trip. As management practices may change, verifying the most current reservation information is recommended.

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