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Facilities
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Signs & Maps
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Nature
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Established Camping

Carp River Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Carp River Campground, near St. Ignace, Michigan, is a cozy spot that offers a rustic camping experience surrounded by nature. With spacious sites that provide a good amount of privacy, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

This campground features clean vault toilets and a potable water pump nearby, making it convenient for campers. Visitors have mentioned that the sites are nicely shaded, which adds to the peaceful atmosphere. One camper noted, “Our site was nicely shaded. Quiet.”

If you’re into fishing, you’ll appreciate the easy access to the Carp River, where you can cast a line and enjoy the serene surroundings. The campground is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

While some campers have pointed out a few potholes on the road, the overall vibe is welcoming and laid-back. Whether you’re planning a quick stop or a longer stay, Carp River Campground is a solid choice for a nature-filled getaway.

Fee Info

Check in time is anytime after 2 pm. Early arrivals will be charged for the previous day.

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Location

Carp River Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

4664 Mackinac Trail, St Ignace Michigan 49781 From the intersection of US-2 and I-75, drive north on I-75 to exit 352. Turn right on County Road 123, then turn left on Mackinac Trail/Highway 63. Drive north approximately five miles, turn left onto FR 3445 and drive a quarter mile to the campground.

Coordinates

46.0330556 N
84.7191667 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 3, 2025

Relaxing, peaceful, quiet

We were looking for a campground around Mackinac Island and found this little gem. Our camp host was lovely, and the sites were spacious and well-kept. We were one of 3 groups in the entire campground, so it was a quiet stay with little interaction with others. We took a nice stroll over the bridge and through the pine forests. Close enough to gas stations and grocery stores, but still quiet.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by haley L., June 3, 2025
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by haley L., June 3, 2025
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by haley L., June 3, 2025
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2024

Cozy campground

We really enjoyed this small, cozy campground. The sites are nicely spaced out for privacy. We stayed in site #15. It was very spacious and right near the bathrooms. Our only complaints are that there were some potholes in the road that could be filled in, and the mosquitoes were horrendous. No amount of bug spray or tiki candles helped. We will definitely be staying at this campground again the next time we visit the area.

Site15
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Elizabeth Y., July 14, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 11, 2021

Nice, rustic campground

Stayed September 30, 2021.

Clean campsite on river.  Vault toilet clean.  Level.  Stairs down to river, possible fishing.  Our site was nicely shaded.  Quiet.  Camp host sold firewood.

Site6
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Lyle B., October 11, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2021

Nice nature setting for a waypoint when camping across the UP

I liked the camp setting. Unfortunately for us, we didn't get the chance to explore much. A big storm blew in right after we scouted out the camp. Severe weather was forecasted for the rest of the night, so we opted not to stay in a tent during the storms. 

Would definitely come back our next time through the UP though.

Site13
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Neil T., August 31, 2021
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Neil T., August 31, 2021
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Neil T., August 31, 2021
  • (13) View All
Reviewed Aug. 10, 2020

This is what you learn to love

This is the best rustic campground you’ll find. Pit toilets, water down the way, fire rings and picnic tables. Good distance between site and clean!!! Love this place!!! Easy access to carp river. Some site back up to river edge. I stayed at 14 which is quiet and is an amazing site.

  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Brian N., August 10, 2020
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Brian N., August 10, 2020
  • Review photo of Carp River Campground by Brian N., August 10, 2020
  • (6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Carp River Campground?

Carp River Campground offers basic rustic amenities including pit toilets (vault toilets), fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Water is available down the way from the campsites, though not directly at each site. The campground is clean and well-maintained with good spacing between sites for privacy. Some sites back up directly to the Carp River, with stairs providing access to the water for fishing opportunities. A camp host is on-site and sells firewood for campers' convenience. The fee is $20 per night for this primitive campground.

Can RVs access and stay at Carp River Campground?

Carp River Campground is a primitive campground that can accommodate smaller RVs, though it's not designed specifically as an RV park. The access road has some potholes that could present challenges for larger rigs. Since this is a rustic campground, there are no hookups available (no water, electric, or sewer connections). Sites are nicely spaced apart, providing adequate room for smaller recreational vehicles. Before arriving with an RV, it's advisable to contact the campground directly to confirm current access conditions and site suitability for your specific vehicle size.

Are there photos of Carp River Campground to view before visiting?

Yes, photos of Carp River Campground are available online. These images show the spacious, shaded campsites, some of which back up to the Carp River. Photos also display the rustic nature of the campground, including the fire rings, picnic tables, and surrounding natural environment. To view the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the campground's official listing on Michigan DNR's website or camping platforms like The Dyrt where visitors frequently share their campsite photos.

Where is Carp River Campground located near St. Ignace, Michigan?

Carp River Campground is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula near St. Ignace. It sits along the Carp River, providing a peaceful setting with water access. The campground is positioned close enough to Mackinac Island to serve as a convenient base for visitors exploring the island. Its secluded location offers a quiet alternative to the busier campgrounds directly in St. Ignace while still providing reasonable access to area attractions. The small, cozy nature of the campground makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a more natural camping experience in the St. Ignace region.