Burt Lake State Park
Burt Lake State Park
Burt Lake State Park is located in the quaint little town of Indian River. A small town feel but a perfect location that’s only a short drive (20min) to visit Petoskey, Cheboygan and Mackinac City. Possibilities are endless, with so many places to explore if you want to venture further away. Burt Lake is part of the 40-mile long Inland Waterway which is Michigan’s longest chain of rivers and lake.
Beach
We visited the state park in September, on a quiet day and stayed to watch the amazing sunset on the lake. The beautiful sandy beach is shallow for a long way out, great for families and younger children. Beach has many shells. Depending on the time of year you come, it’s an ideal place to stay when the Great Lakes our still cold and Burt Lake will be warmer. There is a boat launch, old school swing set and slide, volleyball nets, benches and picnic tables with grills nearby.
Campground
Pull through site 113
With over 300 sites, the choices for campsites are either sunny lake front or shaded wooded sites. The campsites are roomy and only a short walk across a stretch of grass to the beach. The lake front spots have a beautiful view of the water, with a convenient location for boat owners. Some of the prime spots are 42 -49, which are a good size, if your goal is to be close to the water. Sunsets are a highlight! Plus the quaint town of Indian River has everything you would need. The camp store is tiny but a good spot to grab ice cream, or head in to town for a sweet treat at Droste’s Chocolates.
Bathrooms are older, but were clean. The West end showers have low water pressure.
* summer 2020 the camp was undergoing some updates and renovations.
Activities Near Indian River
Paddle down the Sturgeon River on a group tubing, rafting or kayaking trip at Big Bear Adventures near the entrance to the park. Provided is a free shuttle with pick up/drop off at the river.* Definitely wear protective footwear. Here you can also rent equipment for the beach or play on the putt putt golf course, bumper boats or ropes course.
Bike the North Central State Trail, a 62 mile bike path, from Gaylord to Makinaw City with Indian River marking the halfway point.
Fishing, rock collecting and mushroom hunting enthusiasts will love this area. September, with it’s rainy wet conditions, was the perfect time to go mushroom hunting.
Assortment of Mushrooms we found while hiking at Agnes S Andreae Preserve
Nearby Attractions
Some highlights of our stay in Indian River were exploring these nearby hikes and attractions which you can read more about on the post below.
Agnes S. Andreae Preserve -Amplify your experience by visiting the natures megaphone as you hike the trails at the preserve.
Cross in the Woods Shrine - View the largest cross in the United States.
Seven Springs Preserve - Numerous hiking
trails.
Oden State Fish Hatchery - explore the visitor center and ponds.
Ocqueoc Falls - Visit the largest waterfall in the Lower Peninsula. In warmer months you can slide down the falls and play in the water.
Gaylord -Call of the Wild is the Gaylord Elk viewing parks. See and hear these majestic beasts, their call is chilling.
Mackinaw Island- Numerous activities can be found in Mackinaw City and on the island. Check out this list of the Top Free and Paid Activities in Mackinaw City.
Nearby Restaurants
C.R.A.V.E Pasta : A restaurant with a cool aesthetic and delicious pasta, pizza and drinks. Try the Salty Dog Pizza uses bacon jam.
Cafe Noka: During your stay visit this family restaurant which serves large filling portions. Open for breakfast and lunch Friday - Sunday from 7:00 am - Noon.
Final Thoughts
With an abundance of outdoor activities and beauty, Burt Lake is bound to be a memorable experience. As you plan your vacation to this beautiful destination in Michigan, make sure to Pin and Save for later and share with a friend. If you found this helpful, follow Discovering Anew for more campground reviews and Michigan adventures. We’re constantly producing new content and strive to create honest reviews to help make planning your next trip easier. From our family to yours…HAPPY CAMPING!
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