Government Island
USFS · Camping Area · Free
Fast facts
- Cost
- Free
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Camping Area
- Hours
- Open 24 hours/day
- Reservations
- fs.usda.gov
- Coordinates
- 45.9693, -84.3102
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
Government Island is the only public land within the Les Cheneaux chain of islands. it was once home to a Coast Guard construction support site. The Forest Service provides established campsites, most include a fire ring and picnic table. There are two public vault toilets on the Island. Permits and fees are not required for individual family use, however, if you have a group or provide tours requiring a fee, it is required that you contact the Hiawatha National Forest, St. Ignace Ranger District to obtain a free or low-cost permit. Government Island is accessible only by private watercraft, the nearest public launch is in Cederville. No mooring is provided. Watercraft can be beached at several locations on the Island or anchored in the channel.
From the USFS.
Is Government Island free?
Yes. Government Island is free to use. It is managed by the USFS.
How do I get to Government Island?
Government Island is at 45.9693, -84.3102. We do not hold written directions for this one, so navigate to the coordinates.
Nearby
- Search Bay Dispersed Camping Area10.1 mi
- CARP RIVER CAMPGROUND20.2 mi
- Brevoort Dam30.2 mi
- Lake Michigan Campground & Picnic Area31.9 mi
- LAKE MICHIGAN AT ST. IGNACE31.9 mi
- Brevoort Lake Campground & Picnic Area32.0 mi
- BREVOORT LAKE CAMPGROUND32.0 mi
- SOLDIER LAKE37.6 mi
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
