About Burt Lake State Park
Burt Lake State Park has anchored the southeast corner of Burt Lake since 1921, near Indian River in the northern Lower Peninsula. Burt Lake is a 27-square-mile recreational lake and a key link in the 38-mile Inland Waterway, a chain of lakes and rivers that lets boaters travel from Crooked Lake all the way to Mullett Lake without touching a Great Lake.
The modern campground is one of the state's largest, with 306 sites offering either 20/30-amp or 50-amp service throughout, plus a sanitation station, mini cabin, and group-use area. EV fast-charging stations are also available on-site.
Things to Do
The park has 2,000 feet of sandy shoreline with a shallow, designated swim area — a rarity along this stretch of the Inland Waterway. Burt Lake is popular for walleye fishing, and a paved path connects the park to the North Central State Trail for biking and hiking. The park's location also makes it a practical base for day trips to Mackinac Island, Tahquamenon Falls, and other regional attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is peak season for swimming, boating, and the Inland Waterway's full chain of lakes. Fall brings quieter camping and good walleye fishing as water temperatures drop.
Reservation Tips
Burt Lake's size means it books up less aggressively than smaller northern parks, but summer weekends near the swim beach still go first. Reserve through MiDNRReservations.com within the 6-month window.
Getting There
The park sits just off I-75 at Indian River, about 25 minutes south of the Mackinac Bridge and a natural stop for anyone heading toward the Straits.