Swan Lake Campsites of Hiawatha National Forest in Wetmore, MI is a heavenly retreat for horse enthusiasts. This picturesque campsite spans over 52 acres and is nestled within the serene Pine Marten Run Trail. The Pine Marten Run Trail offers a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. All four campsites are located on the non-motorized trail which means that you can relish the tranquility of nature without any disturbance.
The Swan Lake Campsites is a sought-after destination among wilderness enthusiasts, making it competitive to get a permit to camp at the location. However, the experience of camping at Swan Lake is worth the effort. The campsite offers three primitive toilets but no drinking water, so bringing water and other essentials on the camping trip is important. The Swan Lake Campsites have excellent swimming areas which provide a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Moreover, Swan Lake is also an excellent fishing destination for large and smallmouth bass, bluegills, and pumpkin seeds. The lake offers a good fishery which is an added bonus for campers who enjoy fishing. The lake area surrounding the campsite is breathtaking and makes for a serene spot to enjoy some quiet time.
Swan Lake Campsites is also a horse-friendly campground making it an ideal location for horseback riders. Horseback riding is a great way to explore the scenic trails that Pine Marten Run has to offer. The campsite also comes equipped with unimproved boat access at site #1, which has ample turn-around and parking space for your convenience. The boat access at other sites is by carry-in only.
Lastly, the campsite is idyllic for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. The Pine Marten Run Trail offers horseback riders a chance to immerse themselves in an enchanted forest with densely packed trees, abundant wildlife, and serene lake views. If you're looking for a calm and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Swan Lake Campsites of Hiawatha National Forest in Wetmore, MI is the perfect destination.
Swan Lake Campsites offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Primitive campsites
- Horseback riding trails
- Primitive toilets
- Swimming areas
- Grills/Fire Ring
- Privacy
- Horse Hitching Post
Policies:
- Reservations through Columbus Day. No services/no reservations/no fees after that time Columbus Day through May 15.
- Check-in Time: 2 pm; Check-out Time: 11 am
- Camping at Swan Lake is by reservation only. Walk-ins are not allowed. These sites may be reserved for up to 14 days. Reservations are made on our national recreation reservation system. To check the availability of the campsites or to make a reservation, call 877-444-6777 or go to www.recreation.gov.
- Horse camping: All straw, hay, feed, and manure must be raked up and hauled home.
- Horses must be properly tethered in designated areas
- You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit to this campground.
Notes: Trailers are not recommended at this site because the ground is not level. There is a primitive toilet located on the southwest side of the lake that serves sites #2, #3, and #4.
Natural Features
Swan Lake is the most popular lake in the designated campsite program, so getting a permit to camp here can be quite competitive. All four campsites are located on the non-motorized Pine Marten Run Trail and horse camping is allowed.
- Site 1 is located on a small hill overlooking the west shore of the lake and is isolated from the other three campsites on the lake. This site is 60 ft x 30 ft, and is suitable for one family. Trailers are NOT recommended unless they are set up in the parking area at the base of the knoll. The public boat launch to the lake is located near this site, so campers may have boaters accessing the lake.
- Site 2 is on the southwest side of the lake and is 65 ft x 50 ft. This site is level and suitable for two families and small trailers. Turnaround space is very limited.
- Site 3 is a nice level area, 65 ft x 35 ft, that can accommodate two families and trailers.
- Site 4 is 80 ft x 70 ft and suitable for two families.
- Sites 3 and 4 are adjacent to one another and can be reserved together to accommodate larger groups.
Cost Details:
- The camping fee is $8 per night per site. Federal Recreation Passes (Golden/America the Beautiful) are accepted.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
HIAWATHA NATIONAL FOREST - Bay de Noc - Grand Island National Recreation Trail
SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE - Islands Lookout via Alligator Hill Trail
MARINETTE, WISCONSIN - Bagley Fishing Pier
FLORENCE, WISCONSIN - Dorthy Fox Forest (East Entrance)
Swan Lake Campsites does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Swan Lake Campsites for more information