Camping options surround Alger, Michigan in Arenac and Ogemaw counties, with sites situated between forests, small lakes, and the Rifle River watershed. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with peak season extending from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Fall camping remains popular through mid-October when nighttime temperatures begin to drop below freezing.
What to do
River activities: River View Campground & Canoe Livery in Sterling provides direct access to the Rifle River with tubing and kayaking opportunities. "Family goes there every year. Campground offers many amenities and with the river right on site there is so much to do. We always go tubing and kayaking," notes Jennifer S.
Fishing access: Secord Lake Campground offers convenient lake access for anglers. "The Lakeview Campground is a great spot for water lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy the campground's updated amenities," explains Jake C.
Wooded hiking: Ogemaw County Park features natural trails through wooded areas. "Nice quiet secluded campground in the woods," reports Gary D. The campground sits just off I-75, providing both seclusion and accessibility for travelers.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Northern Bear Paw RV Park receives consistent praise for its natural atmosphere. "It's sits on the Au Gres River trail to the river with seating, picnic table and fire pit. The grounds are immaculate. Very peaceful setting," shares Nellie.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. As Gary D. notes about Ogemaw County Park, "Nice clean baths and showers." Facility maintenance standards vary seasonally, with most sites offering shower buildings from spring through fall.
Spacious riverside sites: River View Campground offers particularly large waterfront options. "The rustic sites along the river in section 'N' were very large and spacious spots," mentions Phil M., though he notes that "Sections L and M seemed to be tightly packed in."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many rv campgrounds near Alger, Michigan close in mid-October. Loranger Pines RV Park operates from April 1 to October 15, with similar schedules across the region. Harrison RV Family Campground runs from April 15 to October 8, according to their listing.
Reservation importance: Summer weekends fill quickly, particularly at river-access sites. As Phil M. experienced at River View, "After following this campground's FB page for years we finally got to visit this summer." Planning several months ahead improves booking chances.
Campground atmosphere variations: Different areas within campgrounds often have distinct character. At River View, "The Group camping side is considered the 'Adult/Party' area. Nobody was crazy out of hand or anything to that nature, just louder music, drinking, etc."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Family-oriented campgrounds provide numerous recreation options. Phil M. notes that River View has "numerous playground areas, volleyball, horseshoes, and even an arcade area."
Shade availability: Camp Withii (now Harrison RV Family Campground) offers wooded sites that provide natural cooling. "It's a quiet and peaceful setting ❤️," according to Donna M., who spent over two weeks at the campground.
Bathroom facilities: Most family campers prioritize clean restrooms and showers. River View Campground maintains their facilities, though Phil noted, "The water was warm immediately, but the push button timer for the shower water made showers kind of annoying."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Several rv campgrounds in the Alger, Michigan area offer improved site surfaces. Outdoor Adventures Mount Pleasant Resort, though slightly further from Alger, provides reliable all-weather parking. "This campground is the best one in their fleet. It is super dog friendly as well," reports Cindy C.
Full hookups: Northern Bear Paw RV Park provides complete services year-round. "An awesome place to stay! Owners are very thoughtful, through, and considerate of the campers," shares Corey L.
Extended stay options: Several campgrounds accommodate longer visits. Donna M. reports about Camp Withii, "I have been here for over 2 weeks now and I am absolutely loving it! The Camp Hosts are delightful and helpful."
