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Best Campgrounds near Iron River, MI

449 Reviews

Camping near Iron River, Michigan encompasses a mix of state parks, national forest sites, and township campgrounds nestled within the Upper Peninsula's forested landscape. The area is anchored by Lake Ottawa Campground in Ottawa National Forest, just 10-15 minutes from Iron River, and Bewabic State Park in nearby Crystal Falls, which features spacious, secluded sites. Bates Township Park offers tent and cabin camping options on Sunset Lake, while Pentoga Park Campground provides full-hookup sites for RVs. The region sits within Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, characterized by numerous lakes, dense forests, and proximity to the Wisconsin border, making it a gateway to both states' outdoor recreation areas.

Most campgrounds in the Iron River area operate seasonally from May through September or October, with limited winter camping options. Bewabic State Park is one of the few facilities open year-round. According to one visitor, "In mid-October, we woke up to full-on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season." Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with Lake Ottawa Campground offering decent reception while Bewabic State Park has limited connectivity available only at certain locations within the park. Many forest service campgrounds have vault toilets and hand-pumped water, but lack shower facilities. Reservations are recommended for summer weekends, particularly for lakeside sites which are highly sought after.

Water recreation forms the centerpiece of camping in the Iron River region. Lake Ottawa features sandy beaches ideal for swimming, with clear water allowing visibility up to 20 feet deep. Fishing is popular, with smallmouth bass catch-and-release regulations helping manage the crayfish population. Many campgrounds offer boat launches, fishing piers, and water access. Hiking trails connect to the North Country Trail which winds through the area, providing opportunities for day hikes or section backpacking. ATV trails are accessible from several campgrounds, with the 160-mile Blue Ox trail system nearby. The region's minimal light pollution makes it excellent for stargazing and potential Northern Lights viewing during the right conditions.

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Best Camping Sites Near Iron River, Michigan (154)

    1. Bewabic State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Alpha, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 875-3324

    "This was one of our favourite campgrounds in Michigan sites were far apart in secluded great brewery nearby."

    "The site was very nice and had buffers all around, with only a neighbor to one side. We chose 61 because on the map it appeared close to the bathrooms and park."

    2. Pentoga Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Alpha, MI
    7 miles
    Website

    "The campground is within walking distance to beautiful Chicagoan Lake. Onsite laundry and small camp store. Not a lot of privacy in the campground. Most people are in RV's so that's not an issue."

    "They have a decent playground and camp store, the beach is great for swimming and the lake for fishing.  They have a dock to jump off about 50' out, and another with a diving board about 200' out. "

    3. Lake Ottawa Campground — Ottawa National Forest

    3 Reviews
    Iron River, MI
    6 miles
    +1 (906) 396-5428

    $22 / night

    "Lake Ottawa is our go to campground!! We go whenever we can. We even got married in the park over 20 years ago!"

    4. Franklin Lake

    14 Reviews
    Three Lakes, WI
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 479-2827

    $15 - $25 / night

    "I've camped at Franklin Lake many times now. It is a gorgeous campground that is literally in the middle of nowhere, and I love it. Loons are always on the lake. The water is crystal clear."

    "Maybe because our site is only a yard away from the water, and with ample living space for multiple tents and a vehicle. A fire ring and a picnic table. A set of vault toilets nearby."

    5. Paint River Hills Campground

    6 Reviews
    Crystal Falls, MI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 875-4977

    $20 - $25 / night

    "Beautiful walking trail along river. Quiet. Campsite for tents and RV. Call for directions lol The gps takes you to the old back entrance."

    "The ORV Route is right outside the campground entrance and you can ride to the trail. You can also get ice and gas at the gas station in town by taking the alley. We stayed again in 2020 in Our RV."

    6. Bates Township Park

    1 Review
    Iron River, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 265-2787

    "Close to the lake. Grass and gravel. Restroom share with the park/boat launch area. I would definitely stay here again. If there was a drawback would be sites have some slope toward lake."

    7. Lake Ottawa NF Campground

    1 Review
    Iron River, MI
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4724

    8. Chipmunk Rapids

    4 Reviews
    Long Lake, WI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 362-1300

    "Easy access to trails and area lakes. Could canoe the river if you want. Very quiet."

    9. Paint River Forks NF Campground

    3 Reviews
    Iron River, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 358-4724

    10. Brule River Campground

    2 Reviews
    Iron River, MI
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (715) 479-6407

    "But this time I opten in for the 200meter walk in site and I pitched a tent. The site was very large with a firepit, bench, and picnic table. I also cant forget to mention right on the river."

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Recent Camping Photos near Iron River, MI

131 Photos of 154 Iron River Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Iron River, MI

449 Reviews of 154 Iron River Campgrounds

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Laurel Lake Campground — Chequamegon Nicolet NF

    Another Excellent Camp-out at Campground 2 Laurel Lake

    Dark and quiet at night time. The site would be a perfect canoe landing, the water is within a few yards. The campground has three spacious sites, while the Campground 1 in the lake has eight. A vault toilet and clean water well. The autumn weather is bright and fresh!

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Season's Best at Franklin Lake

    We have had an excellent camp-out this year here. Maybe because our site is only a yard away from the water, and with ample living space for multiple tents and a vehicle. A fire ring and a picnic table. A set of vault toilets nearby. We didn't expect to find flushing toilets in a campground anywhere, but, we have a choice here to drive up further and use the facility. The wood forest is nicely maintained. Falling off branches are taken care of off the roads right away. And, that's all we care about in enjoying the outdoors this year.

  • Nancy May The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Laurel Lake Campground — Chequamegon Nicolet NF

    Laurel Lake Campground

    We don't have any RVs, no RV's cleaning and dumping facility required. It's good enough with its regular and standard trash disposal site. The wood forest is nicely maintained. I have no fear of falling timbers or branches at all times. And, the nicest thing about the campground is the few square-footages of level and compacted square on each site, ready to spread your tent on it. It's great! 👍

  • Lindsey R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Baraga State Park Campground

    Noisy spot

    Decided to drive north to stay on Keweenaw Bay. The only thing you couldn't tell is that the State Park was right on the road. Literally. No site is quiet. Traffic goes all day and all night. Park was curiously mostly full with families and ither campers set up fir the weekend?. Clearly a popular spot. Very clean bathrooms and showers a lovely Park Ranger.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Van Riper State Park Campground

    Electrical hookups, about $35 per night

    Very expensive, but what can you do with a useless storm that doesn't go away?

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Franklin Lake

    Excellent sandy beach

    Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns. With a boat one can visit an island that once had a cabin. The best swimming is on a sandbar directly across from the beach.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Scott Lake

    Remote site on quiet lake

    The campsite is on a gravel road. There is access to a small lake. Across the road is a nice boardwalk to another lake. The Wilderness Headwaters trail is also close.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Indian Lake

    Single site on small lake

    The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. It’s intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area. Many hiking opportunities are nearby.

  • Kay K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site

    Amazing find

    This is a huge campsite on a dead end road. The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there. There is a sandy beach on a small lake full of fish. The Sam Cambell trail is right next door, it’s a nice walk to another tiny lake.

Guide to Iron River

Camping near Iron River, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to suit different preferences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the lake or a more social atmosphere, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area is rich in hiking trails and lakes. Campers can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking. One visitor at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground mentioned, "We had the park mostly to ourselves... Facilities were pretty standard state park fair."
  • Visit local attractions: Check out nearby waterfalls and state parks. A reviewer at Bond Falls Campground said, "Beautiful spots, friendly staff, clean toilet and trash can at each site. Will definitely return."
  • Enjoy water activities: Many campgrounds have access to lakes for swimming and boating. A camper at Silver Lake Resort noted, "The campground is on the water and only a few minutes away from the dunes!"

What campers like:

  • Quiet surroundings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. One visitor at Sparrow Rapids Campground shared, "Quiet, no frills campground by a river out in the woods."
  • Clean facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Bewabic State Park Campground said, "Superb plumbing facilities... clean and private rooms for each stall."
  • Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A camper at Baraga State Park Campground remarked, "Hosts were very friendly and informative."

What you should know:

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Baraga State Park Campground mentioned, "I can hear my neighbors talking at their campsite from mine."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A reviewer at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground noted, "Dump station was fine and suited our needs."
  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Campers should be prepared for bugs, especially near water. One camper at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground said, "Lot mosquitoes but you're in woods, will come back we loved it."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A family at Clear Lake Campground mentioned, "Great park with lots of different types of sites however they are fairly close together."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Governor Thompson State Park Campground said, "This park is big, with lots of trails, clean bathrooms, water access, and great campsites."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A visitor at Silver Lake Resort noted, "The trees provide great shade, but also attract mosquitos."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site before booking. A reviewer at Lake Gogebic State Park Campground mentioned, "Easy in and out with our 28’ pull behind."
  • Look for electric hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with electric hookups for convenience. A camper at Van Riper State Park Campground said, "Decent restroom/shower building."
  • Be aware of road noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Baraga State Park Campground noted, "The noise from hwy 41... is noticeable yet not a dealbreaker."

Camping near Iron River, Michigan, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Iron River, MI?

The best campgrounds near Iron River include Pentoga Park Campground near Crystal Falls, offering reservable sites with water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly spaces. Big Lake State Forest Campground is another excellent option, providing a simple, unelectrified camping experience with good privacy between sites for just $15 per night. For those willing to venture slightly further, West Bass Lake features newly installed showers and flush bathrooms as of 2024, while Van Riper State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities including a large playground and beach access. The region's campgrounds typically feature beautiful lakeside settings, hiking opportunities, and the classic North Woods experience.

What camping options are available in Iron River, Michigan?

Iron River offers diverse camping options within the surrounding area. Paint River Forks NF Campground provides a more rustic experience with toilet facilities and boat-in access, ideal for anglers. For those seeking more amenities, Lake Ottawa Campground — Ottawa National Forest features flushing toilets, running water, and sandy beaches perfect for swimming. The area also offers Bates Township Park for simpler camping needs with water access. Whether you prefer state forest campgrounds, national forest sites, or local parks, Iron River's camping options accommodate both tent and RV campers with varying levels of amenities and natural settings.

How far are Iron River campgrounds from Iron Mountain, MI?

Iron River campgrounds are approximately 30-45 minutes from Iron Mountain, MI, with the exact distance varying by location. Bewabic State Park Campground, located between the two cities, is about 20 miles from Iron Mountain and offers a convenient midway option. Michigamme Shores Campground, while not offering much privacy, provides full hook-ups right off the highway for RV travelers making the journey. The drive between Iron River and Iron Mountain follows US Highway 2, a scenic route through Michigan's Upper Peninsula forests. Most campgrounds in the area are accessible within a 25-35 mile drive from Iron Mountain, making day trips between the locations practical for campers.

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