Wisconsin's Upper Peninsula camping near Ewen, Michigan sits at an average elevation of 1,565 feet, with seasonal temperature swings from 10°F in winter to 75°F in summer. Black River flows through the area, creating waterfront camping opportunities at many sites. Most campgrounds maintain vault toilets rather than full shower facilities, with only the larger parks offering modern amenities.
What to do
Fishing access: River Road RV Park in Ontonagon sits across from the river with multiple fishing docks. "Right across the street is a river. They have a few docks. Just a few blocks from the Ontonagon city marina. Somewhat close to city beaches on Lake Superior," notes Teri I.
Hiking trails: Explore the Escarpment trail near Union Bay Campground, which offers some of Michigan's most scenic terrain. "Make sure to do escarpment trail!" recommends Christine C., who visited in August 2020. The trail runs approximately 4 miles and provides panoramic views of Lake Superior.
Waterfall exploration: Several falls accessible within 30 minutes of Ewen. "We enjoyed the park, had some great hikes along water falls and spending time along the shore of Lake Superior," shares Sam C. about their stay at River Road RV Park while visiting Porcupine Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Alpine Campground offers generous campsites with natural separation. "Spacious and level sites, all mowed grass. Very clean bathrooms with hot showers," reports Aurora S., adding that "Firewood was reasonably priced and a generous amount."
Lakeshore access: Ontonagon Township Park Campground provides beachfront camping with unobstructed Superior views. "We nabbed the last place on the beach side and could see Lake Superior from the site," writes Kevin. "The beach was sandy, the lake-bottom sandy/small pebbles (no aqua-socks needed)."
Wildlife viewing: Sparrow Rapids Campground offers six quiet sites arranged in a loop with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Six good sites, all level. Nicely separated. Outhouse well cared for. No water. Fire rings. Pack in pack out. Stream fishing down the hill," notes Bill F.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Service varies widely between campgrounds. At Sparrow Rapids, "Excellent att coverage" is reported by Jennifer T., while other campgrounds may have minimal or no service available.
Seasonal black flies: Summer months bring persistent insects to the region. "While we were camping the flies were unbearable. Bug spray was no match for the flies, so we were forced to spend most of our time in the screen room," warns Cody S. about their experience at Union Bay Campground.
First-come availability: Sylvania Clark Lake Campground and other sites don't take reservations. "They don't do reservations, but despite having 10+ sites available, they're holding them for people who may never come," reports one frustrated camper about Ontonagon Township Park. Another advises, "You really have to be there, in person by 7AM to wait in line to get a site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several RV campgrounds near Ewen, Michigan offer dedicated play areas. Ontonagon Township Park Campground features "a very nice children's play area, frisbee golf, and accommodations for equestrians," according to Carrie C.
Swimming spots: Find safe beach access at township parks. "The water felt so good, we ran back up and got into trunks to swim. Brisk but totally swimmable," shares Kevin about Ontonagon Township Campground.
Nature activities: Land O' Lakes Nature RV Resort provides an "Adult Playground in Nature" according to Jake C., though note this site "is adults only but doesn't follow the typical 55+ rule and is available for younger adults as well!"
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Many RV campgrounds near Ewen feature grass parking pads with varying levelness. "Our site was grass and had some ruts from previous guests. It sounded like they had a lot of rain earlier in the summer," notes Sam C. about River Road RV Park.
Pull-through logistics: At Alpine Campground, pull-through sites accommodate moderate-sized rigs. "Our pull thru sites where just long enough for our 35' trailer and truck to stay connected," explains Sam C., mentioning sites were "a little un-level but were very spacious."
Seasonal pricing: Borderline RV Park serves as a popular seasonal option. "Great community in the park for summer/early fall living. Numerous lakes nearby for fishing; a boat ramp into the Wisconsin River for canoes/kayaks is just across 45," shares Susan T., who stays April through October.
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