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Craig Lake

Branch County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
1 launchRec Passport required
Craig Lake Access Map 1 launch
🎣 Fishing Guide → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Craig Lake
Craig Lake Boat Launch
Jackson Field Office · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 9 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

Craig Lake State Park contains several interconnected lakes accessible by foot or paddle. The park sits in the Upper Peninsula's Lake Superior watershed in Baraga County, adjacent to the McCormick Wilderness. The North Country Trail passes through the park, connecting it to a broader trail network spanning the UP.

Winter & Ice Safety

Craig Lake freezes in winter and winter camping is possible, though access via the rough two-track roads becomes even more difficult with snow. Ice fishing is feasible but you're deep in backcountry with no cell service and no nearby services — come fully self-sufficient and prepared for UP winter conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to Craig Lake?
You'll drive several miles on rough two-track dirt roads with large rocks and limited clearance. 4WD or a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended — reviewers in full-size trucks still report bottoming out. Nelligan Lake Road is considered the easier approach; Nestoria Road is significantly rougher. Plan 20-30 minutes just for the dirt road portion. From the parking area, you still need to hike or paddle to reach the lake and campsites.
Is there a boat launch on Craig Lake?
There is a boat launch area, but getting a boat to it requires navigating those rough access roads. The launch is basic and best suited for canoes, kayaks, and small boats. One reviewer noted it's accessible for pontoon use, but parking is tight and maneuvering larger trailers is difficult. Some reviewers mention it's a significant walk from the main parking lot to the launch.
Can you camp at Craig Lake?
Yes, but it's extremely rustic. All campsites are hike-in or paddle-in — there's no drive-up camping. Most sites have no tables, grills, running water, or standard latrines. There are roughly 20+ numbered sites around the lake. The park also offers a small cabin and a yurt, but these book up fast — reserve at least 6 months in advance. Nearby Waffle Farm Campgrounds offers a less rugged alternative.
How long is the hike around Craig Lake?
The loop trail around Craig Lake is approximately 8 miles. It follows a service road for the first portion, then transitions to trail. There's a suspension bridge near the midpoint. The trail connects to the North Country Trail, which you can follow toward McCormick Wilderness for a longer trek. Spur trails also lead to other lakes within the park.
Is there cell phone service at Craig Lake?
Essentially none. Multiple reviewers confirm very limited to zero cell service throughout the park. Plan accordingly — bring paper maps, tell someone your itinerary, and don't count on being able to call for help.
Can you swim in Craig Lake?
Yes. Reviewers mention swimming and describe the lake as calm and peaceful. There are no designated swimming beaches — it's a natural shoreline — but the water is accessible from campsites and shoreline areas.
Can you canoe or kayak on Craig Lake?
Absolutely — paddling is one of the best ways to experience the lake. Many campsites are designed for paddle-in access. The lake is calm, scenic, and dotted with small pine-covered islands. Multiple reviewers describe the paddling as exceptional. You can also paddle to other lakes within the park system.
Where is Craig Lake State Park?
Craig Lake State Park is in Baraga County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It's about 30 minutes from the nearest highway on rough dirt roads. The park covers 9,732 acres and is considered the most remote state park in Michigan.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Craig Lake sits inside Craig Lake State Park — 9,732 acres of wilderness in Baraga County in the Upper Peninsula, widely called the most remote state park in Michigan. Getting here is an adventure in itself: several miles of rough two-track roads with jagged rocks and minimal clearance, requiring 4WD or at least a high-clearance vehicle. The lake itself is only accessible by foot or paddle, with hike-in and paddle-in campsites scattered around the shoreline. The 8-mile loop trail around Craig Lake features a suspension bridge at the midpoint and connects to the North Country Trail and the adjacent McCormick Wilderness.

This is true backcountry — no cell service, no running water, no tables at most sites, and dark enough skies for serious stargazing. The park contains several lakes beyond Craig, all fishable and all requiring effort to reach. Fishing reviews are mixed ("great" to "slow") but the remoteness means low pressure. Cabins and a yurt are available but book months in advance. Paddling is exceptional — calm, quiet water with pine-dotted islands. Winter camping happens here too, though access is even more challenging with snow. If you want solitude and don't mind earning it, Craig Lake delivers something almost no other Michigan state park can.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment

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