Peterson Bridge Campground is located on the Pine River in Michigan’s Manistee National Forest. The location on the river makes it ideal for canoeists and those looking to experience the adventure of this swift moving river.
Recreation
With access to the river so close, floating the Pine River is a popular activity at Peterson Bridge. Several locations near the campground offer canoe rentals. Supporting outstanding trout fishing, the Pine River is also a “Blue Ribbon” cold-water fishery. For State Fishing Regulations consult the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, website http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/.
Facilities
The facility offers several tent sites which are walk-in only. Those tent sites on the river bank can also be accessed from the river.
In addition, the facility offers RV sites with many of the sites at this facility offering shade and seclusion.
Natural Features
The Pine River is well known as one of the most outstanding canoeing and trout fishing rivers in the Midwest. The river gradient is 7% and, depending upon the season, offers the fasted average flow of any river in lower Michigan. The lower 26 miles of the Pine River have been designated a National Wild and Scenic River.
ADA Access: N
This national forest campground is right along the river. A hiking trail goes right from camp. In fact there is also a day use parking area. Peterson bridge is big and crosses right outside camp.
The road in camp twists and turns providing a wonderful layout. Campsites are spread apart and are facing all different ways. There were a lot to choose from when we stopped in on a Thursday. It's nice to have paved campsites in a national forest camp. It wasn't raining when we were here but we still appreciated the pavement.
The Manistee River Trail is not far away either - perfect for day hiking or an a weekend backpack. This is a great spot to spend some time.
We stayed at the Peterson bridge as part of a kayak trip down the pine river. The tent sites near the river have pit toilets and a water pump available. Up near the camper sites there are flushing toilets and bathrooms with sinks but no showers. During our stay a bear wandered through the camp.
I can’t speak into much about the RV campsite but they looked nice; they had concrete slabs to park on.
This campground is absolutely gorgeous, clean, well kept and each site area of pitching is nesseled into the woods while having easy access to vehicle. Therr is a restroom every 4 campsites. You are far away from other campers and you have the grounds crew who have that kind Michigan feel. The only downside is no showers. But there is walking access to the river! Easy access for kayaks! absolutely quiet, no animal issues, no bugs besides daddy long legs.