The Rifle River Recreation Area near Alger, Michigan encompasses 4,449 acres of natural landscape in Ogemaw County. Winter temperatures average between 14-29°F, while summer brings mild 55-81°F conditions. The recreation area contains five interconnected lakes and the Rifle River running through forested terrain with trails connecting campsites to natural features at elevations ranging from 800-950 feet.
What to do
Hiking and observation points: Rifle River Recreation Area offers numerous trail options connecting different camping areas. A camper at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground notes, "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." These trails range from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging 4-mile routes through varied terrain.
River activities: The Rifle River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking and tubing. At River View Campground & Canoe Livery, one visitor shared, "Nothing like grabbing a tube a flowing down the river with friends. Camp sits are close and the bathrooms are cleanish." Tube rentals typically cost $15-25 per person with shuttle service included.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes within the recreation area offer fishing access points. According to one angler camping at Spruce Rustic Campground, "There's a access point to Gamble Creek between sites 171 and 173. Ideal for trout anglers." Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campsites throughout the recreation area offer significant privacy. A visitor to Spruce Rustic Campground mentioned, "Small, rustic, remote, clean and quiet. Large and level campsites that are well spaced." Most sites include a fire ring and picnic table.
Lake access: The five lakes within Rifle River Recreation Area each have unique characteristics. A camper at Grousehaven Campground shared, "The lake is absolutely gorgeous and is paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear, my 2.5 y/o daughter loved playing at the beach and the shallow swimming area."
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife observation opportunities. A visitor described their experience: "We were fortunate enough to see mink, beaver, muskrat, loons, eagle, osprey and three swan...so it was a treasure trove for us." Dawn seasons (5:30-7:30am) and dusk (7:30-9:00pm) offer optimal wildlife viewing times.
What you should know
Holiday weekend considerations: Holiday periods can bring different camping experiences. One camper at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground noted, "I camped in one of the rustic campgrounds over a holiday weekend and it got a little too rowdy for my tastes." Consider booking non-holiday weekends for quieter experiences.
Campsite selection tips: Research specific sites before booking. A visitor at Bay City State Park advised, "Make sure to come with an extension cord - one member of our party had their power halfway into their neighbor's site through a bunch of bushes." Many campgrounds provide site-specific photos online to help with selection.
Weather preparedness: Michigan weather can change rapidly. According to one camper, "We left Tawas Point campground and went here. The day use beach bathroom was our first stop...not the cleanest. But the beach was nice as were the trails." Pack layered clothing and rain gear regardless of forecast predictions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer specialized amenities for children. A visitor to Tawas Point State Park shared, "A lot of fun things for kids, lots of adventures. Close to town." Many sites include playgrounds, shallow swimming areas, and junior ranger programs during summer months.
Family-friendly campsites: Some campground sections are better suited for families with children. One reviewer noted, "We were in the lower unit and stayed on site 3. The lake is absolutely gorgeous and is paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear, my 2.5 y/o daughter loved playing at the beach and the shallow swimming area."
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised around water features. A parent advised, "There are communal water spickets generously scattered around the grounds. The bathrooms and showers are very clean. They are closed an hour a day for thourgho cleaning." Most campgrounds post quiet hours from 10pm to 8am to ensure adequate rest for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger RVs. A camper at Northern Bear Paw RV Park shared, "This place is gorgeous. Owners have done a great job with the property. Pine trees left intact. It's sits on the Au Gres River trail to the river with seating, picnic table and fire pit." Sites with full hookups typically cost $35-45 per night.
Hookup considerations: Electric service varies between campgrounds. One RVer mentioned, "Lots of moving around to get your electric hooked up to the shared and oddly placed power poles." Extension cords of 25-50 feet are recommended for some sites where hookups may be positioned inconveniently.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. According to campground information, "River View Campground & Canoe Livery operates from May 1 to October 15" while other facilities may close earlier in fall or open later in spring depending on weather conditions.
