It's a bittersweet moment for campers and nature enthusiasts in Alger County, as the Forest Lake State Forest Campground is set to permanently shut its gates after this weekend's Memorial Day celebrations. According to a recent announcement on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, come June 9, the beloved spot will no longer welcome outdoor adventurers.
The closure comes on the heels of an ownership change that saw the bank take over the property due to foreclosure, effectively pulling the plug on public recreation. The DNR had struck a deal to manage the campground for a cool 70 years, through changing hands and fluctuating water levels. But now, to not continue these traditions seems almost like a betrayal of a community accustomed to disconnecting in the woods and reconnecting with wildlife.
"We’ve had an agreement in place to operate the facility for 70 years, through several dam ownership changes," Eric Cowing, district supervisor for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, lamented in a statement by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Unfortunately, due to recent foreclosure, we will no longer be able to continue providing camping, boating, and other recreation opportunities at Forest Lake."
All is not lost, however, as there are still heaps of ways for rugged outdoorsy types to relish in the region's natural wonders. The DNR's website is a trove of information on alternative camping spots and recreational activities near the now-defunct campground. Patrons can check it out for a guide to continue their open-air adventures without missing a beat. Nearby facilities like AuTrain Lake Campground and Superior Time Resort & Campground are prepped to welcome displaced campers with open arms and paddle boats ready.
