RV campgrounds near Iron River, Michigan sit within the rugged western Upper Peninsula at elevations ranging from 1,500-1,800 feet. The region features mixed hardwood forests, numerous lakes, and the Paint and Iron Rivers running through the area. Campsites typically open from May through October, with limited winter camping options due to heavy snowfall that often exceeds 150 inches annually.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pelican Nest RV Resort and Campground provides direct access to fishing spots. "Lynn and Ray camp hosts are fantastic! Less than $200 for a full week w/ electric. 2 restroom/showers kept spotless. Overlooking the swimming beach. Highly recommended!" reports Jason D.
ATV trail access: Morgan Lake Campground serves as a base for off-road enthusiasts. "This campground is out there. With sites right next to the lake, you're sure to enjoy some of Wisconsin's beautiful north woods," notes Brandon L. The campground connects to local ATV trails with "4+ miles of good gravel roads to arrive at the campground. We passed more atv's than cars."
Lake recreation: Camping near Franklin Lake offers water-based activities with pristine conditions. "The water is crystal clear and there's a beach that can be used if you don't have a lake site," explains Hannah I. "You can swim off of the lake sites if you have one, otherwise there's a really nice beach at the beginning of the campground. Boats are allowed on the lake."
What campers like
Site privacy: Franklin Lake gets high marks for secluded camping spots. "Private sites, great beach, beautiful buildings built by the CCC. There is even a small nature center. My family loves the nature trail that takes us through bogs and past maiden hair ferns," writes Kay K. Another camper adds it's "a gorgeous campground that is literally in the middle of nowhere, and I love it."
Seasonal advantages: Paint River Hills Campground offers an extended camping season into late fall. "We arrived late since we had spent the day on Mackinac Island, but the camp host was nice enough to touch base with us while on the road and make sure everything was ready for our arrival. Due to the early freezing weather, water and sewer had been unexpectedly, but understandably, disconnected."
Cost value: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Paint River Hills pricing. "Great campground 20$ a nite with electric and water!!!!!Some have sewer. Beautiful walking trail along river. Quiet. Campsite for tents and RV," notes Brian H.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. At Borderline RV Park, many seasonal campers report adequate service, but at Franklin Lake, "Cell service is awful, you can get service sort of by the lake depending on your provider, but don't count on it."
Seasonal openings: Most RV campgrounds in Iron River, Michigan operate on limited seasonal schedules. Borderline RV Park operates "May 1 - Oct 31," while others like Pelican Nest RV Resort run "Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend" only.
Primitive facilities: Some campgrounds offer basic amenities. Morgan Lake has "Vault toilets and water are available" while others like Paint River Hills Campground provide "a bathroom building with 3 stalls and two showers(women) and hot water."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Bewabic State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming. "Beach area is very nice," reports Pat H. Another visitor notes, "the lake was beautiful and there people out boating on it."
Playground options: Bewabic State Park provides recreation facilities beyond water activities. "Nice beach and lake. hiking trails and playground," mentions Brandon B., making it suitable for families with children of different ages.
Wildlife viewing: Franklin Lake offers opportunities to spot native species. "Loons are always on the lake. The water is crystal clear. The beach is great, but if you have a site on the lake you can walk in and swim right there! Amount other wildlife bear are in the area."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites throughout the region may require equipment for leveling. Paint River Hills Campground features "4 pull through sites with full hook-ups;$25 a night. 50/20 amps, high water pressure."
Winter considerations: Most RV parks close during winter months. One exception is Bewabic State Park Campground which operates year-round, though with limited services. "There is a dump station there. It was quiet at night and dark and you could see the star!"
Campsite selection: At Franklin Lake, "You can get campsites on the lake, or you could get more secluded sites further back into the woods." This allows RVers to choose based on their preference for lakefront access or more privacy.
