If you’re looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, Lake Gogebic State Park is the perfect spot. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this beautiful state park sits along the largest inland lake in the region—Lake Gogebic. With stunning water views, dense forests, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s an ideal place for camping, fishing, and relaxing in the great outdoors.
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Lake Gogebic State Park Map
A Brief History of Lake Gogebic State Park
Lake Gogebic has long been a cherished spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Native American tribes once used the lake for fishing and travel. As settlers arrived in the late 19th century, the area became known for logging and mining. In 1926, the state of Michigan recognized its natural beauty and turned it into a state park, preserving it for future generations. Today, it remains a favorite getaway for campers, boaters, and nature lovers.
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Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:
- Summer (June – August): Ideal for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. The weather is warm, and the lake is perfect for swimming.
- Fall (September – October): A fantastic time to see the fall foliage as the trees burst into red, orange, and yellow colors.
- Winter (December – February): Great for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. The area gets a good amount of snow, making it a winter wonderland.
- Spring (April – May): A quieter time with blooming wildflowers and wildlife waking up from winter.
Location
Lake Gogebic State Park is located in Gogebic County, Michigan, on the western shore of Lake Gogebic. It’s part of the Upper Peninsula and sits near the town of Marenisco, about 40 miles from Ironwood.
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How to Reach Lake Gogebic State Park
By Car
- From Ironwood, MI: Take US-2 East, then turn north on M-64. It’s about a 45-minute drive.
- From Marquette, MI: Take US-41 South to US-2 West, then turn onto M-64 North. The drive takes around 2.5 hours.
- From Green Bay, WI: Follow US-141 North, then take US-2 West to M-64 North. It takes about 3.5 hours.
By Air
The nearest airport is Gogebic-Iron County Airport (IWD) in Ironwood, MI, about 40 miles away. It has limited regional flights, so most travelers fly into Duluth International Airport (DLH), which is about 130 miles away. From there, you can rent a car and drive to the park.
By Other Means
If you enjoy long road trips, you can take a bus to Ironwood and rent a car to reach the park. There are no direct train services, but the scenic drive through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is worth the extra effort.
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Top Activities in Lake Gogebic State Park
- Camping – The park has over 120 campsites, many of which offer beautiful lake views.
- Fishing – Lake Gogebic is known for walleye, perch, and northern pike. Bring your gear or rent a boat!
- Boating & Kayaking – Enjoy a peaceful ride on the lake with rental options available nearby.
- Hiking – The park itself has scenic trails, and there are more hiking opportunities in the surrounding areas.
- Swimming – The sandy beach area is great for a refreshing dip in the summer.
- Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for eagles, deer, and even black bears!
- Winter Sports – Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing are popular in the colder months.
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Nearby Tourist Attractions
If you want to explore more of the Upper Peninsula, here are some nearby attractions worth visiting:
- Ontonagon County Park: Located about 30 miles away, this park offers more stunning lake views, picnic spots, and fishing opportunities.
- Yondota Falls: A hidden gem in the forest, this beautiful waterfall is a must-see for nature lovers. It’s a short hike to reach it, but the peaceful surroundings make it worth the effort.
- Wolf Mountain: For those who love hiking, Wolf Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Upper Peninsula. It’s a moderate hike but rewards you with a stunning overlook.
- Ironwood Area Historical Society: A great place to learn about the region’s mining and logging history. The museum features exhibits on the early settlers and industries that shaped the area.
- Sensenbrenner Park: This small but charming park in Ironwood is a nice stop for a picnic or a relaxing stroll. It also has historical markers about the town’s past.
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Where to Stay Near Lake Gogebic State Park
If camping isn’t your style, there are plenty of comfortable places to stay nearby:
- Gogebic Lodge: A cozy lakeside lodge offering cabins and boat rentals, perfect for a quiet retreat.
- Bear’s Nine Pines Resort: A family-friendly resort with fully equipped cabins, fishing docks, and a laid-back atmosphere.
- West Shore Resort: Located right on Lake Gogebic, this resort is great for fishing trips and outdoor adventures.
- Our Guest House Cabins: A charming option with rustic-style cabins, ideal for a peaceful getaway with modern comforts.
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Where to Eat and Drink
After a long day of exploring, you’ll want to enjoy some great food. Here are a few spots near Lake Gogebic:
- Finn & Feather Northwoods Cuisine: A cozy restaurant known for its fresh fish, steak, and homestyle meals.
- Earla’s: A small but welcoming diner serving delicious homemade breakfast and lunch options.
- Root Cellar Resort and Dining: A lakeside restaurant offering excellent seafood and American cuisine with a beautiful sunset view.
- AJ’s Lodge and Oven: Famous for its wood-fired pizza, this is a great spot to grab a casual meal with friends and family.
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Final Thoughts on Lake Gogebic State Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Lake Gogebic State Park is a fantastic choice. Whether you love camping, fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, this park offers something for everyone. With nearby attractions, cozy lodging options, and delicious food, your trip to Lake Gogebic will be a memorable adventure.
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FAQs About Lake Gogebic State Park
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Q: Where is Lake Gogebic State Park located?
A: Lake Gogebic State Park is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, in Gogebic County, along the western shore of Lake Gogebic.
Q: What activities can you do at Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Popular activities at Lake Gogebic State Park include camping, fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, and winter sports like snowmobiling and ice fishing.
Q: What is the best time to visit Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Summer is best for camping and water activities, fall for foliage, and winter for snowmobiling and ice fishing at Lake Gogebic State Park.
Q: Are there camping facilities at Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Yes, Lake Gogebic State Park has over 120 campsites, some with electric hookups, plus restrooms, picnic areas, and a boat launch.
Q: How do I get to Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: You can drive to Lake Gogebic State Park via M-64. The nearest airport is in Ironwood, MI, about 40 miles away.
Q: Are there lodging options near Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Yes, nearby options include Gogebic Lodge, Bear’s Nine Pines Resort, West Shore Resort, and Our Guest House Cabins.
Q: What kind of fish can you catch at Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Anglers at Lake Gogebic State Park can catch walleye, perch, northern pike, and smallmouth bass in the lake.
Q: Can you swim in Lake Gogebic?
A: Yes! There’s a designated swimming area at Lake Gogebic State Park, with a sandy beach and clear waters perfect for summer fun.
Q: What are some nearby attractions to Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Visit Ontonagon County Park, Yondota Falls, Wolf Mountain, Ironwood Area Historical Society, and Sensenbrenner Park nearby.
Q: Is Lake Gogebic State Park open year-round?
A: Yes, Lake Gogebic State Park is open year-round, offering different activities in each season, from hiking in summer to snowmobiling in winter.
Q: What is Lake Gogebic known for?
A: Lake Gogebic is known for being the largest inland lake in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, offering excellent fishing, boating, and scenic beauty.
Q: What is the most beautiful Michigan state park?
A: Michigan has many stunning parks, but Lake Gogebic State Park is a top choice for its peaceful lake views, dense forests, and outdoor activities.
Q: Are there showers at Lake Gogebic State Park?
A: Yes, Lake Gogebic State Park has modern restrooms with showers available for campers and visitors staying at the campground.