Van Riper State Park Campground offers modern and rustic camping options on the shores of Lake Michigamme. The park features 147 sites in the modern campground plus 40 sites in the rustic area, with sites that can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet. Campers can access hiking trails directly from campsites, with some routes providing overlooks of the lake and surrounding forest. The park maintains a beach area with kayak and paddleboard rentals during summer months.
What to do
Explore nearby waterfalls: Canyon Falls, known as Michigan's "Grand Canyon," is located about 30 minutes west of Lake Michigamme. "A 10 minute hike along the river from the parking area to the Canyon falls and gorge. You can hike further in if you wish and discover the rapids area along the river," notes one visitor to Van Riper State Park Campground.
Search for moose sightings: The area around Michigamme is known for moose populations. "Ask the rangers where to go to look for moose," recommends a visitor at Van Riper State Park Campground, suggesting rangers maintain updates on recent sightings in the vicinity.
Kayak on secluded lakes: Craig Lake State Park Campground offers remote paddling experiences on multiple lakes. "For someone who GREATLY values hidden gems where you can get really out and remote, this place is an absolute heavenly oasis," reports a camper. No motors are allowed on the lake, creating a peaceful paddling environment.
Utilize water installations: Lake-based recreational equipment is available at some campgrounds. "They have a water toy park," notes a visitor about Michigamme Shores Campground, mentioning the variety of water features available during summer months.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Craig Lake State Park provides truly remote experiences. "Most sites are accessible ONLY by boat. Beautiful quiet lake," explains a camper. The park offers a combination of boat-in sites and hike-in spots along the North Country Trail.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds in the area cater to families with children. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours. Huge beach with volleyball net," shares a visitor to Van Riper State Park.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites. "The sites are large and clean! Even a park for the kids!" writes one visitor about Van Riper State Park. Another camper at Big Lake State Forest Campground notes, "Way off the beaten path but the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake."
Off-grid experiences: For those seeking glamping close to Michigamme, Michigan with fewer amenities, Craig Lake State Park offers a true wilderness setting. "Access is from 41 turn on the gravel road outside Michigamme coming from the East. Do not recommend coming or going from the access road on the west... it's a VERY bumpy road," cautions one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance bookings. At Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park, "The only down side is that they are by reservation only. No 'walk-in's' if you will," explains a visitor.
Drinking water considerations: Some campgrounds have water restrictions. "There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water," notes a visitor to Van Riper State Park Campground.
Campground popularity: Weekends can be crowded at popular spots. "Stayed on a Wednesday and there was space available but booked solid for weekends. Filled up by 4 pm," reports a visitor to L'Anse Township Park & Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present in the region. "Local black bears," mentions a reviewer about Twin Lakes State Park Campground, indicating campers should practice proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Several campgrounds offer special water attractions. "Great waterfront improvement with a store, kayak and SUP rentals, and inflatable water feature to use for a fee," notes a reviewer about Van Riper State Park. Another mentions, "There were several Large floating climbing structures in the swim area. Kids were having a blast."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain playground facilities. "We were able to grill our food at our camp site then brought it over closer to the beach where we set up in the grassy area. The kids were are to play on the beach or the play ground equipment," shares a visitor who celebrated a birthday party at Van Riper.
Campground activities: Some park hosts organize activities. One Van Riper camper notes, "Games available for campers from the host site as well as dog poop supplies."
Beach options: The region offers numerous swimming opportunities. "The lake was a great temperature and very swimmable," explains one visitor about the waters at Lake Michigamme.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When glamping close to Michigamme, Michigan in an RV, choosing the right site matters. "We stayed in site 92 that is located right next to the restroom/showers. Which was great having young children with us who seem to need to visit the restroom numerous times," shares a visitor to Van Riper State Park Campground.
Campground layout awareness: Some campgrounds have minimal privacy between sites. "Sites are very open and non private," notes one visitor to Van Riper, something to consider when choosing accommodations.
Utility hookups: Full-service sites are available at certain campgrounds. "We found a decent spot last minute. Quiet times are enforced. Right across the road from a lake," explains a visitor to Keyes Lake Campground, which offers electric, water and sewer hookups.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating rough roads. "Not recommended for 2 wheel drive, low clearance vehicles," cautions a visitor to Big Lake State Forest Campground about the entrance road.
