11 Bob Lake Campground 

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

Photo: David Kenyon, MI DNR

A Forest Service campground (fees apply for camping) and the Beaver Lodge Interpretive Trail on this site help visitors explore and experience forest and wetland wildlife. Pick up a trail brochure at the campground trailhead or at the Ranger District Office in Ontonagon. Interpretive signs are posted along the trail at interesting points. A portion of this trail is marked with blue diamond markers that designate a short access trail leading to the North Country National Scenic Trail that runs from New York to North Dakota. Contact the Forest Service or the Ontonagon Ranger District for more information on the North Country Trail.

Wildlife Viewing

Many kinds of wildlife inhabit this site year-round, but the best months for viewing them are May through July. During most winters, the site can be accessed by snowmobile. It’s just a short distance from a popular snowmobile route. In summer, watch for beavers, muskrats, and mink in the wetland areas. Lucky viewers might catch a glimpse of the fisher, a large member of the weasel family. Many kinds of waterfowl also live in the wetlands, including mallards, black ducks, wood ducks, and grebes. Sandhill cranes and loons are seen here occasionally. White-tailed deer are commonly seen in the area. On a few occasions, viewers have caught sight of gray wolves and black bears in the area. The lake is a popular site for fishing. Songbirds are very active in the wooded area around the lake, especially in the spring. Watch and listen for forest birds such as woodpeckers, wood thrushes, and ovenbirds. Tip: a night's stay at the campground and an early rise may be very rewarding. Early morning is usually the best time to view many animals.

Portions of this are open to public hunting. Contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for affected seasons and locations.