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State Park
Nichols Lake South Campground
Manistee National Forest · Bitely, MI
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State parks set their own rules and reservation systems. Fire bans, road closures, and operating dates change seasonally — check the state park website before traveling.
Pricing
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Official sources & verification
Managed by State Park
Reserve or permit
- Reserve on Recreation.gov
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- Address:Bitely, MI
About
Overview
Located on the south side of Nichols Lake, the campground and surrounding area offer excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, picnicking, hiking, camping, or just relaxing.
Recreation
Fishing and boating are popular activities at Nichols Lake. There is a paved boat launch at the campground. This site is one of the locations on the National Forest's for Kids Fishing Day Events for Michigan's Free Fishing Day in early June. Ice fishing is also popular in the winter. Swimming areas are marked with buoys, but there are no lifeguards. The North Country National Scenic Trail goes through the site near the boat ramp, providing good hiking opportunities.
Facilities
Nichols Lake has 29 family sites on paved spurs. Drinking water, flush toilets, and showers are provided. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. A wood ramp and stairs lead down to the lake from the campground. A short path along the lake provides access for fishing.
Natural Features
At 160 acres, Nichols Lake offers shore, pier, and boat fishing. Typical fish species available include bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, black crappie, and northern pike. There is a swimming beach and accessible fishing pier available.
Those wishing to enjoy the day at Nichols Lake will find a day use area located on the north side of the lake.
Nearby Attractions
The North Country Trail covers 4,600 miles from Crown Point, NY, to Lake Sakakawea State Park, ND. The segment that includes Nichols Lake has beautiful sections for both the advanced and weekend hikers. The nearest towns are Woodland, Bitely, and Brohman, about two miles to the south.
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Amenities
Showers
Flush Toilets
Potable Water
Firewood
Accessible
Picnic Tables
Fire Rings
Trash Service
Cell Service
Pet Policy
Pets allowed on leash
Campground Rules
- Campfires generally permitted — verify current fire restrictions before lighting
In this park
Trails at Manistee National Forest
Within ~30 miles
Trails near Nichols Lake South Campground
Trail
Leaf Lake and Condon Lake via North Country Trail
Michigan
7.4 mi948 ftgain
Difficult
Trail
Birch Grove Connector Trail and North Country Trail Loop
Michigan
7.5 mi669 ftgain
Difficult
Trail
Pere Marquette River Float
Michigan
14.5 mi814 ftgain
Easy
Trail
North Country Trail - M20 to Echo Dr
Michigan
7.1 mi541 ftgain
Easy
Trail
Pine Forest Pathway
Michigan
1.3 mi98 ftgain
Easy
Trail
Hungerford Lake Recreation Area Cross Country Ski Trails
Michigan
3.3 mi289 ftgain
Moderate
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