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Cedar River North State Forest Campground

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Eight miles down an old logging road, Cedar River North State Forest Campground sits along the Cedar River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, managed by the state as part of the broader state forest system. Mosquitoes are plentiful. Most of the 14 sites front the river directly, several include horse pens, and the road is passable for most vehicles including campers. Crowd levels run low, amenities include a fresh water spigot and ADA-accessible picnic tables at every site, and a kayak launch gives anglers direct access to bass fishing. Coyotes are audible across the river in the early morning. Off-road activity from nearby mudding trails generates occasional noise, though reviewers describe it as manageable. Those wanting a developed alternative can look at J.W. Wells State Park Campground, or browse campsites near Stephenson for other options in the area.

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Map & DirectionsCedar River North State Forest Campground is located in Michigan near Stephenson

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

45.50210664 N
87.39702167 W

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Connectivity

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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 6/12/25
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    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 6/12/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Cedar River North State Forest Campground

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4.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2025

Quite, tranquil

Great little State Forest campground that follows the river. Very few people, extremely quiet, private sites. Road is slightly bumpy but completely fine for almost any vehicle to go down. Mosquitoes are plentiful

Site14
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2018

Highly recommended

This place is awesome. It's 8 miles down an old logging trail but it's worth the drive. There is no electricity but they have a fresh water spigot. There are 14 campsites, half of which have horse pens, most of the sites are river front on the Cedar River, and 2 sets a trails,one which is an equestrian trail that doubles as ski trails in winter. There is a kayak launch and the river is a great place for catching bass. Every site has at least one handicap accessible picnic table and a small fire pit. Most of the sites are big enough to fit a camper. There is a set of mudding trails across the river with easy access, the sounds are not too loud. The campground is usually empty or close to it. The mudders do come visit the grounds for the bathrooms, otherwise it's pretty quiet. There is a bunch of wildlife, you can hear birds and squirrels chattering, coyotes call to each other in the early in the morning across the river, and lots of little critters scurrying about. Dogs are welcome. There is a gas station/Mart on the highway before the turnoff that sells fire wood and other items you may need while camping

Site14
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Cedar River North State Forest Campground by Lauren B., August 2, 2018
  • Review photo of Cedar River North State Forest Campground by Lauren B., August 2, 2018
  • Review photo of Cedar River North State Forest Campground by Lauren B., August 2, 2018
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Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Cedar River North State Forest Campground?

Cedar River North State Forest Campground offers 14 rustic campsites, approximately half of which feature horse pens for equestrian campers. Many sites provide direct riverfront access to the Cedar River. The campground has a fresh water spigot for drinking water, but no electricity. Two sets of trails are available for hiking and horseback riding, with one specifically designated for equestrian use. Expect primitive camping with minimal facilities in a quiet, natural setting.

How does Cedar River North State Forest Campground compare to JW Wells State Park Campground?

Cedar River North is significantly more rustic and remote than JW Wells State Park. Cedar River offers a primitive camping experience with no electricity, just 14 sites, and is accessed via an 8-mile logging trail. It's extremely quiet with riverfront sites and excellent privacy. In contrast, JW Wells State Park typically offers more developed facilities, potentially including electrical hookups and more modern amenities. Cedar River North is ideal for those seeking solitude, horseback riding opportunities, and a true wilderness experience, while JW Wells would better suit campers wanting more conveniences and easier access.

Where is Cedar River North State Forest Campground located in Michigan?

Cedar River North State Forest Campground is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, accessible via an 8-mile drive down an old logging trail. The campground is situated alongside the scenic Cedar River, offering waterfront sites in a remote setting. While the access road may be slightly bumpy, it's generally navigable for most vehicles. The secluded location contributes to the campground's peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.

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