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The dwarf lake iris is a rare and beautiful wildflower found in the sand
dune habitats of The Big Knob Forest area. PLEASE DO NOT PICK! Photo: MI
DNR
This site features some beautiful dune and
swale habitat on the north shore
of Lake Michigan.
Wind and water from the lake and its changing water levels are constantly
sculpting and altering this sandy habitat and its vegetation. Visitors
may stay at the forest campground or come for a day hike on the Big
Knob-Crow Lake Foot Trails.
Wildlife
Viewing
There is a high probability of viewing
ducks, geese, gulls and terns along the beach and in the small ponds and
wetlands behind the first dune. Common loons and bald eagles may be seen
here from spring through fall. Historically low water levels as
experienced in 2003 change the shoreline, enlarging the beach and
reducing water levels in wetlands and ponds. A stand of northern pin oak
trees (unique for this area) may be seen along the road about 1/2 mile
before the campground entrance. The sand dune habitat of this site is
home to many rare and unique plant species, including the Lake Huron tansy, Houghton’s goldenrod, Pitcher’s
thistle, and dwarf lake iris. Please do not pick or disturb any of these
protected plants that have managed to establish themselves in this
fragile and harsh dune environment.
Directions
From Naubinway, drive west on US-2
about 7.5 miles to signs for Big Knob State Forest Campground on the left
(south) side of the road. After turning left, the Big Knob-Crow Lake Foot
Trail is 4.5 miles and the campground is 6 miles down the road.
Ownership: Michigan
Department of Natural Resources, Sault Ste. Marie Management Unit, Naubinway Field Office, (906) 293-5131
Restrooms – 6 pit
toilets at state forest campground. Trails – Marsh Lake
Trail starts at campground, 1.5 miles in length, easy; Crow Lake Trail -
2.5 miles in length, easy; Big Knob Trail, 0.25 mile to top of the knob
with an overlook
to KnobLake, moderate. Both trails start
about 4.5 miles south of US-2. Picnic – tables
available with fire ring. Camping – 23 camp
sites, nightly fee required. ($10 per night 2003). Drinking water –
hand pump near the picnic area. Fishing - trout
fishing in streams in the area. Hunting - small and
big game outside of the campground safety zone.
Wildlife
Viewing 
