Brevort Lakes

By Mikel B. Classen

Lakes are abundant in the Upper Peninsula, but the natural beauty and serenity of the two Brevort Lakes set them apart from others.  Tucked away in the woods near the Lake Michigan shore and only a few miles down the road west of St. Ignace and the Mackinaw Straits, they provide the visitor a taste of the deep woods experience without the hassle of the crowds of the area or a long trail to get there.  If in desperate need of a serious, relaxing getaway, visiting the Brevort Lakes area could be the answer.

The two, Little and Big Lake Brevort, also known as the Brevoort Lake Recreation Area; are located near the town of Brevort, on U.S. 2.  The area is filled with attractions for the traveler and has historical significance. The Brevort Lakes provide an inexpensive and pleasant base camp for trips to the Straits or the Soo.

Little Lake Brevort

The smaller of the two, Little Lake Brevort, lies on the northeast side of the town of Brevort.  This quiet, serene lake is nestled in a secluded hollow, a peaceful, restive camping area.

The campground is reached by turning off U.S. 2 at the town of Brevort, a well-marked turn.  Travel north one mile and turn right.  Follow the road one more mile, and the entrance is on the right, easily visible.

The 20 campsites are cut into an aromatic, thick cedar grove.  The road then circles down to the lakeshore and public access.  Bubbling among the cedars is an artesian well with delicious, ice-cold water.  This sheltered spot is ideal for fishing, canoeing, and row-boating.  For hikers and backpackers, an excellent hiking trail runs in either direction from the camp around the lake for 2.5 miles. A walk to the top of the ridge reveals a panoramic view of the lake.  The hiking here is especially nice.

This campground experiences minimal use. Most is by fishermen, so the surrounding area remains unworn and scenic, maintaining a wilderness feel.  If fishing is a priority, don’t pass up the opportunity here.  The Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains the campground and keeps the lake well-stocked with most Michigan warm-water fish.

Regardless of your favorite outdoor activity, you’ll enjoy camping at Little Lake Brevort.

For more information check out the DNR webpage:

http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=691&type=SFCG

Big Lake Brevort

Located five miles east of Brevort is Brevoort Lake Recreation Area on Big Brevort Lake.(Yes it is spelled both ways)  The entrance off U.S. 2 is easy to find.  This campground is built and maintained by the U.S. Forest Service and is one of the nicest in the U.P.  A full-facility campground, showers, running water and hookups are provided.  About seventy sites are heavily used at times, but usually there are vacancies.  This campground, too, is situated in a scenic spot on a beautiful lake which is dotted by camps and cottages.

Fishing is popular as are water sports like skiing and sailboarding.  Restrictions on motor size may apply, so check with the U.S. Forest Service if you’re not sure.

Big Lake Brevort Campground is ideal for all family members, especially those who don’t enjoy roughing it.  Among the well-kept, clean modern facilities is a playground for children.  A nature trail meanders through the wilderness, offering photo shots of varied habitats.  Only a mile away rests a stretch of Lake Michigan beach open to the public for swimming.

For more information go to the USFS website

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/hiawatha/recarea/?recid=13292

The next time a weekend is available for a mini-vacation, consider Brevort Lakes for fun and relaxation.  It’s easy to find and close to supplies.  The town of Brevort and surrounding area contain many stores and tourist attractions.  The rates are inexpensive making this a most economical way to see local attractions. Visit this premium area of the U.P. — and enjoy!

Content copyright . Mikel Classen. All rights reserved.