30 Big Knob Forest Campground 

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

This site features some beautiful dune and swale habitat on the north shore of Lake Michigan. Wind and water from the lake and its changing water levels are constantly sculpting and altering this sandy habitat and its vegetation. Visitors may stay at the forest campground or come for a day hike on the Big Knob-Crow Lake Foot Trails.

Wildlife Viewing

There is a high probability of viewing ducks, geese, gulls and terns along the beach and in the small ponds and wetlands behind the first dune. Common loons and bald eagles may be seen here from spring through fall. Historically low water levels as experienced in 2003 change the shoreline, enlarging the beach and reducing water levels in wetlands and ponds. A stand of northern pin oak trees (unique for this area) may be seen along the road about 1/2 mile before the campground entrance. The sand dune habitat of this site is home to many rare and unique plant species, including the Lake Huron tansy, Houghton’s goldenrod, Pitcher’s thistle, and dwarf lake iris. Please do not pick or disturb any of these protected plants that have managed to establish themselves in this fragile and harsh dune environment.