HomeMichiganSchoolcraft County

Gemini Lakes

Schoolcraft County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
118.2 acres20 ft deep2 launchesRec Passport requiredIce fishing
Gemini Lakes Access Map 2 launches
Depth Map → 🎣 Fishing Guide → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Gemini Lakes
North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground Boat Launch
Indian Lake State Park · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 3 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground Boat Launch
Indian Lake State Park · Carry-in only ramp, 0 lane
Open Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

North and South Gemini Lakes are connected to each other. The lakes sit in the broader Lake Superior watershed in Schoolcraft County. Cusino Lake is nearby but not directly connected.

Winter & Ice Safety

Gemini Lakes are in the central Upper Peninsula where winters are long and cold, so the lakes likely freeze reliably. Ice fishing is plausible given the pike and walleye population, though no specific ice fishing activity was noted in reviews. Always check ice thickness locally before heading out.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are there campgrounds on Gemini Lakes?
Yes, two state forest campgrounds. North Gemini Lake State Forest Campground has about 10 sites on two loops, and South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground has about 8–9 sites on a smaller loop. Both are rustic — no electric, no showers, vault toilets, and hand-pump water only. Many sites are directly on the lake or have trail access to the water. Cusino Lake State Forest Campground is also nearby.
Is there a boat launch on Gemini Lakes?
Yes, there are two launch points. The North Gemini campground has a boat ramp that accommodates motorized boats. The South Gemini campground has a launch limited to non-motorized watercraft — kayaks, canoes, and small boats. Both are free to use with a valid Recreation Passport.
Can you swim in Gemini Lakes?
You can swim from shore at several campsites that have direct lake access, but there's no designated swimming beach. The lake is quiet enough that swimming is comfortable, especially on the south end where motors aren't allowed.
How do I get to Gemini Lakes?
The lakes are in Schoolcraft County in the central Upper Peninsula, accessed via long dirt roads. Multiple campers warn that Google Maps gives bad directions to the campgrounds — download offline maps or get specific directions before heading out. Cell service is very limited or nonexistent in the area.
How much does it cost to camp at Gemini Lakes?
Sites are $20–22 per night plus an $11 per-night vehicle fee. Given the rustic setup (no electric, no showers, vault toilets), some campers feel this is overpriced, though the lakefront settings and solitude are hard to match elsewhere.
Are there mosquitoes at Gemini Lakes?
Yes — emphatically yes. Campers consistently flag mosquitoes as serious, particularly in summer. Bring Thermacells, DEET-based spray, or your preferred nuclear-grade repellent. The deep woods and water make this prime mosquito habitat.
Can you bring a camper or RV to Gemini Lakes?
Yes, both campgrounds can accommodate trailers and motorhomes — one camper reported fitting a 28-foot motorhome at Site 4 on the south campground. The dirt access roads are manageable for towing, though they're long and remote.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Gemini Lakes sit in the deep woods of Schoolcraft County — a pair of connected lakes accessed via long dirt roads, well off the grid. This is true Upper Peninsula backcountry: no electric hookups, no showers, vault toilets, and hand-pump water. What you get in return is quiet water, lakefront campsites, and surprisingly decent fishing. Campers report catching 18–20" northern pike regularly and pulling legal walleye for shore dinners. Perch and rock bass round out the catch.

Two state forest campgrounds serve the lakes — North Gemini and South Gemini — with roughly 8–10 sites each. Many sites sit directly on the water or have trail access down to the lake, and spacing is generous enough for privacy. The South Gemini campground allows only non-motorized boats, making it dead quiet for kayaking and canoeing. Expect serious mosquitoes in summer — multiple campers emphasize bringing Thermacells and heavy-duty bug spray. Cell service is essentially nonexistent, and Google Maps directions to the campgrounds are notoriously unreliable, so download offline maps or get directions in advance. Despite the rustic setup, sites run $20–22/night plus an $11 vehicle fee, which some campers find steep for what's offered.

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