Campgrounds near Alger, Michigan offer a variety of experiences from rustic woodland sites to developed resorts with river access. The region features several small inland lakes and the popular Rifle River which cuts through the sandy terrain typical of Michigan's northeastern Lower Peninsula. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 55°F to 85°F, with July and August being the busiest camping periods when water activities dominate the recreational scene.
What to do
Hiking at observation tower: At Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, visitors can climb an observation tower for panoramic views. "The overlook tower is definitely worth the hike and there's a hidden surprise at the same location for those who know where to look," notes one Devoe Lake visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing multiple lakes: The Rifle River Recreation Area contains five distinct lakes, each with different characteristics. "One of the greatest beauties and draws of this area is the five lakes within the Recreation Area...Devoe Lake, Grebe Lake, Jewitt Lake, Grousehaven Lake and Lodge Lake. Each is unique, offering different sights and sounds," explains a camper.
Wildlife viewing: The wetland areas around Pinconning County Park offer excellent wildlife watching opportunities. "The coolest thing about this campground was the boardwalk it winds back through the woods and marsh and has a lot of raised Outlook platforms to view the scenery," shares one reviewer.
ATV and ORV trails: Multiple campgrounds provide direct access to off-road vehicle trails. "Fairly large state forest rustic campground, relatively clean toilets and a water pump. The trailhead is maybe 1/8th of a mile down the only road in and trails were fun on the bike," reports a visitor about Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the riverfront and lakefront options at several campgrounds. "The rustic sites along the river in section 'N' were very large and spacious spots," notes a camper at River View Campground & Canoe Livery.
Multi-day floating trips: The Rifle River supports various lengths of float trips. "Going up for the weekend with a group of friends and floating down the river in tubes/canoes/kayaks and drinking your day away!" explains a camper about the popular activity at Rifle River Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes and the river provide fishing options. "My friend did catch a handful of bluegill," reports a visitor at Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground, while another mentions, "You can't keep the bluegills and sunfish off your hook" at Grebe Lake in the Rifle River Recreation Area.
Shade during summer: The wooded campgrounds provide relief during hot months. "Also love that there are a lot of trees to provide shade during the hot days," writes a visitor about River View Campground.
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some visitors have noted issues with the water. "The water is not clean however, and if you find yourself floating down and feel the liquid courage kicking in telling you to climb a 100ft rock wall—DON'T. Our last trip my boyfriend fell from the top and contracted a flesh eating bacteria," warns a camper at Rifle River Campground.
Weekend noise levels: Several campgrounds designate separate areas for families and social gatherings. "Everyone seemed to abide by the noise curfews around 11 pm and it seemed rather quiet through the night given the amount of campers around," reports a River View visitor, while also noting, "The Group camping side is considered the 'Adult/Party' area."
Topography challenges: Not all sites are level, which can affect comfort. "While the views of the river are great from the majority of sites, the entire campground is on a hill. There are few - if any - level areas to camp, and very few hammock-friendly trees," explains a visitor about Rifle River Campground.
Mosquito populations: Be prepared for insects, especially in wooded areas. "The lake looks nice, but the campground is very buggy. So many mosquitos it is hard to sit outside," warns an Ambrose Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-designated areas: Some campgrounds separate family camping from more social areas. "The family area looked very nice," notes a Secord Lake Campground reviewer about the family-friendly sections.
Multiple playgrounds available: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There were numerous playground areas, volleyball, horseshoes, and even an arcade area," reports a River View Campground visitor.
Shallow swimming areas: For those with young children, certain beaches offer safer water play. "The beach is shallow and great for young kids, we camped over memorial weekend and water was nice even then," shares a Pinconning County Park visitor.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers can spot wildlife around camp. "I've also woken up to families of deer feeding in the sites next to me more than once," writes an Ambrose Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Paved site availability: Some campgrounds offer more stable parking options. "Our site had a paved pad and patio. You definitely want to try and get one of these sites," advises a Pinconning Park visitor.
Varied hookup options: Services differ significantly between campgrounds. "We camped in what was called a 'rustic' site. Which really meant that it was a lawn in the middle of the campground with no hookups," explains a Rifle River Campground visitor about one of the best places to camp near Alger, Michigan.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide dump facilities on-site. "Spacious, pit toilets, no dump," notes a camper at Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground, important information for RVers planning longer stays.
Leveling challenges: The hilly terrain can make setting up difficult. "There are few - if any - level areas to camp," warns a Rifle River Campground visitor about the topography that affects RV parking.
