Pigeon River State Forest Campground, near Vanderbilt, Michigan, is a rustic retreat that offers a peaceful escape into nature. With sites that sit along the river or tucked back in the woods, it’s a great spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

This campground features picnic tables and fire pits at each site, making it easy to gather around the fire after a day of exploring. Visitors have noted the clean vault toilets and a well for drinking water, which adds to the convenience of camping here. As one camper shared, “You can pick sites on the river or back by the woods,” highlighting the variety of options available.

For those who love hiking and biking, the Shingle Mill Pathway runs right through the campground, offering a scenic trail for outdoor adventures. The river is also a hit for activities like fly fishing and floating, but keep an eye on little ones, as the current can be strong. Campers have praised the quiet and secluded atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.

While there are no electric hookups or showers, the natural beauty and well-maintained sites more than make up for it. Just remember to bring all your supplies, as the nearest town is a bit of a drive away. Whether you’re tent camping or bringing an RV, Pigeon River State Forest Campground is a fantastic choice for a back-to-nature experience.

Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

Pigeon River State Forest Campground

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The sites are all great! Camp along the river if you can. Make sure you have all of your supplies before you arrive as the nearest town is 20+ minutes away. Bring a map/gps because there is not cell service. 


Real camping  

I love coming to Pigeon River not only because it is secluded and peaceful, but because there are so many things to do in the area. The Shingle Mill Pathway (a roughly 10 mile loop trail) runs right through the camgrounds which is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking. The river is also great for fly fishing and floating down If you decide to bring a tube. The best place to camp is right on the river which is lovely to fall asleep to at night. Beware of the bugs! Also, there is no cell service. 

Great place to camp, bike, and hike!

I love this area so much! So much to explore and not heavily trafficked at all. NCT runs through the state forest, so dispersed camping all around. There are a few rustic campgrounds, but we usually just stay at one of the dispersed sites because most of them have a sweet set up. Lots of awesome sink holes to swim in, and even elk sightings. If you can manage to find this place, you will love it! 

So pretty here!

The shingle mill pathway in Pigeon River State Forest was a nice, quiet trail. Went on a Thursday in June and saw 1 other person over 2 days. If you hike about 6 miles the first day, you’ll find a nice dispersed campsite on the west side of grass lake. The only problem with this hike was the insane amount of ticks.

Great overnight backpacking

Great campground. Small in overall size for more peaceful, enjoyable quietness. Sites along the River. Clean and well taken care of by DNR. 

Nice Very private location

Me and my son picked one of a few spots on the pigeon river. The river ran along the edge of our site. Highly recommend, but the current is strong so beware if you have little ones. I wouldn’t recommend for 6 and under. 

Quiet and secluded 

You can pick sites on the river or back by the woods. There are vault toilets and a well for water. The Shingle Mill Pathway runs through the campground. Each site comes with fire pit and picnic table. I've seen people tenting and I've seem people with large fifth wheels. Some sites are only big enough for tents but most sites can fit large rvs. 

Photos of Pigeon River State Forest Campground

Real photos from real campers