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Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

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Within Atlanta State Forest Area, Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground provides drive-in access to forested sites managed by MIDNR Forest Resources Division. The campground accommodates RVs up to 20 feet and operates from April through October, featuring basic amenities including restrooms, picnic tables, and trash service.

Sites allow campfires and welcome pets, with one camper noting the clean restrooms and quiet atmosphere. The location serves as a base for exploring places to camp around Alpena or accessing nearby alternatives like Thunder Bay RV Park & Campground for those wanting additional services.

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Map & DirectionsThunder Bay River State Forest Campground is located in Michigan near Alpena

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Located 9 miles SW of Alpena.

Coordinates

45.01933723 N
83.5565204 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 6/10/26

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
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 6/10/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

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1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 1, 2016

Campers Cove

Thunder Bay is amazing, and I'd never been on the MI side and it was peaceful and beautiful! Campers Cove was also a canoe livery, so you can take out a boat for the day right at your site! Indoor pool (helpful at Thunder Bay) and lots of extras like mini golf. Clean restrooms. Friendly staff.

  • Review photo of Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground by Erin H., August 1, 2016
  • Review photo of Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground by Erin H., August 1, 2016
  • Review photo of Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground by Erin H., August 1, 2016
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Showing results 1-1 of 1 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground located in Michigan?

Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground is located on the Michigan side of Thunder Bay. The campground sits alongside the Thunder Bay River, offering peaceful surroundings and beautiful natural scenery. This state forest campground provides access to the waterways of northern Michigan and serves as an excellent base for exploring the Thunder Bay region and its recreational opportunities.

What amenities are available at Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground?

Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground offers several amenities for visitors. The campground features direct river access, making it convenient for water activities. Campers Cove, located at the campground, provides canoe rentals so you can enjoy time on the water right from your campsite. Additional facilities include clean restrooms and recreational activities like mini golf. The campground also boasts an indoor swimming pool, which can be particularly valuable considering Thunder Bay's weather conditions.

Where is Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground located in Michigan?

Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground is located on the Michigan side of Thunder Bay. The campground sits alongside the Thunder Bay River, offering peaceful surroundings and beautiful natural scenery. This state forest campground provides access to the waterways of northern Michigan and serves as an excellent base for exploring the Thunder Bay region and its recreational opportunities.

What amenities are available at Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground?

Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground offers several amenities for visitors. The campground features direct river access, making it convenient for water activities. Campers Cove, located at the campground, provides canoe rentals so you can enjoy time on the water right from your campsite. Additional facilities include clean restrooms and recreational activities like mini golf. The campground also boasts an indoor swimming pool, which can be particularly valuable considering Thunder Bay's weather conditions.

Are reservations required for Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground?

While specific reservation policies aren't detailed, many Michigan State Forest Campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground, it's advisable to contact the campground directly or check with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for current reservation requirements. During peak summer season or holidays, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. For the most up-to-date information, contact the campground or check the Michigan DNR website before your trip.

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