Directions
From the intersection of US-2 and M-117 just south of Engadine, head west 1.5 miles to Big Knob Road and turn south (left). Follow the signs to the Big Knob State Forest Campground 6 miles down the dirt road. Here you will find the Crow Lake, Big Knob, and Marsh Lake Pathways and State Forest Campground. A recreation passport is required for entry and one can be purchased at the self-guided kiosk if necessary.
Big Knob State Forest Campground
Naubinway - St. Ignace
Birding Information
As you drive from US-2 along Big Knob Road to the campground go slow and check the treetops for red-eyed vireos and ovenbirds in the dense hardwoods. Ruffed grouse may be seen on side trails where there is a lot of aspen. Broad-winged hawks may be seen perched along the sides of the road. As you get closer to the campground at the end of the road northern waterthrush, belted kingfisher and migrating warblers may be seen in the wooded swamps and tree lines closer to the lakeshore. A spotting scope or binoculars could prove useful once on the Lake Michigan shoreline to look for loons, scoters and diving ducks.
Area Information
Big Knob is a high point on a forested sand dune providing excellent views. Big Knob State Forest Campground is at the end of Big Knob Road and is a rustic campground open year-round on a first come first serve basis with pit toilets and hand pump water stations. The road to the campground is not plowed during the winter and pit toilets and water pumps are likewise disabled in winter.
Bathrooms
Pit Toilets
Parking
Yes
Road Birding
Yes
Hiking Trails
Yes: Crow Lake, Big Knob, and Marsh Lake Pathways have trail heads along the road into the campground, including one at the campground parking lot.
Viewing Platform
No
Winter Access
No