Coolwater on the Pine River Campground, near Welston, Michigan, is a welcoming place for campers looking to unwind and enjoy nature. With spacious sites that offer a mix of shade and open areas, it’s perfect for setting up tents or parking RVs.

This campground is known for its friendly atmosphere and accommodating owners. Visitors have highlighted the clean facilities, including decent restrooms and hot showers, which make it a comfortable choice for families and groups. One camper mentioned, “It’s a nice break from dispersed camping, hot showers and friendly people.”

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the campground is close to the Pine River, making it a great base for canoeing and exploring nearby trails. Campers have also enjoyed the scenic views, especially from the group sites overlooking the pond. As one reviewer noted, “We were at one of the big group sites overlooking the pond. Very affordable with water and electricity.”

If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that weekends can get lively, while weekdays offer a quieter experience. Whether you’re here for a family gathering or a weekend escape with friends, Coolwater on the Pine River Campground provides a cozy and enjoyable camping experience.

Coolwater on the Pine River Campground

Searching for the best camping near South Branch, MI? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—South Branch is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near South Branch, reviewed by campers like you.

South Branch

The Best Camping Near South Branch, Michigan

Camping at its best!!

This campground is very nice and peaceful (especially during the day when most campers are off canoeing.) I think seeing it was in the middle of the National Forest, I assumed there would be a lot to do, but from what I can tell it’s mostly a campground for people who want to canoe in the area. We did not, so there wasn’t much to explore by foot other than the campground itself. We were able to walk to the river, but from what we saw (the office was closed our first full day there) there weren’t any other trails accessible from the campgrounds. I’d recommend planning your trip and daily activities ahead of time. Our cell service was non-existent which was a great way to disconnect, but difficult when not knowing the area well. We made the best of it, and still had fun walking around the site during the day and enjoying the view from our campsite. 

Nice, peaceful campground. 

This is a nice campground although there's a big sign at the entrance discouraging loud music. 

NO LOUD MUSIC

We enjoyed our time here, sites are bigger with lots of trees/shade. Nice views, bathrooms will be a bit rustic for some. But we loved the area and space the campground provides. The worms dropping from the trees were crazy.

Very nice camping

Been going to Coolwater for four years now on an annual group trip, and see no end in sight. 

The owner, Geri, is amazing. Firewood and ice sold on site for good prices. Decent restrooms and showers with pit toilets around if needed. Large shaded sites and AMAZING people visiting each year. The campground asks no loud music and full quiet after 12, but we always have a rowdy group and it’s been fine so long as nobody gets disruptive. There’s a canoe launch we sometimes use for our two day trips. Several cool beaches and things to do nearby. 

Overall 10/10, would always recommend Coolwater. I look forward to it every single year. 

My Happy Place

Kids and grandkids joined us for fall camping. New spot for us. Closer to home. Absolutely gorgeous surroundings. Great hiking. One family had over 70 pumpkins carved and set up a trail. Impressive night walk. New owners. Like 8 days. Very accommodating. Plan to make this our fall family camping spot. 


Great fall camp spot

We have been staying here since 2010 and usually book a larger lot with a big group. We try to make annual trips on the pine river and this has been our place to stay each time. 

Great campground for groups 

We really enjoyed our weekend here. We were at one of the big group sites overlooking the pond. Very affordable with water and electricity.

A few trails to walk around the property, and not far to Manistee (bakery downtown is the best in the state).

Will definitely be coming back here.

Big grassy sites overlooking the pond

The new owners have only had this place for about 8 months. In the two days I've been here I've seen groups of people come and go. The weekends seem to be a little heavy on the partying. The weekdays are super quiet. Definitely a vibe here for everyone. I will say if you're looking for free, offer to do some work for the owner. I sat at a log splitter for 2 hours and I was rewarded with a free spot and some snacks. Again, super nice owners, I'll definitely stop here again. It's a nice break from dispersed camping, hot showers and friendly people. 

Photos of Coolwater on the Pine River Campground

Real photos from real campers