Rifle River Recreation Area offers varied camping options near Rose City, Michigan, at an elevation of 1,200 feet. The park encompasses 4,450 acres of woodland and multiple lakes with trails connecting different camping areas. Water temperatures in the lakes typically reach 70-75°F during summer months, making them comfortable for swimming from June through early September.
What to do
Hiking exploration: Devoe Lake Rustic Campground provides access to multiple trails for hikers of all skill levels. One camper noted, "Amazing views and great riding for all ages!" The observation tower offers panoramic views accessible via maintained trails throughout the recreation area.
Paddling the waterways: River View Campground & Canoe Livery offers equipment rentals and river access for water activities. "We always go tubing and kayaking. Bathrooms and showers are decent for a campground. Also love that there are a lot of trees to provide shade during the hot days," shared a camper who visits annually.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes throughout the recreation area provide productive fishing spots. At Spruce Rustic Campground, anglers can find special access points: "There's an access point to Gamble Creek between sites 171 and 173. I got my 20' trailer back there no problem," according to one fisherman.
What campers like
Private sites: Devoe Lake Rustic Campground gets high marks for site separation. A visitor mentioned, "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded by trees." Another camper appreciated the distinction between camping types, noting it has "Modern and Rustic, so tents don't need to be in a Zoo of RVs."
Clear water: The lakes throughout the Recreation Area feature exceptional water clarity. A camper at Grousehaven described, "The lake is absolutely gorgeous and is paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear, my 2.5 y/o daughter loved playing at the beach and the shallow swimming area."
Wildlife viewing: The numerous lakes provide habitat for diverse wildlife. One camper reported seeing "mink, beaver, muskrat, loons, eagle, osprey and three swan" during their stay, making the area "a treasure trove" for nature enthusiasts.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking. At Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, a camper noted, "Sites require a reservation either at the office or Online. Not somewhere you can just pay for on spot because it's in the rifle river recreation area."
Bathroom facilities vary: Restroom quality differs between campgrounds in the area. At Spruce Rustic Campground, a visitor reported, "The vault toilets do need some attention," while others found facilities acceptable for rustic camping.
Holiday crowds: Some areas become quite busy during peak times. One camper at Devoe Lake mentioned, "I camped in one of the rustic campgrounds over a holiday weekend and it got a little too rowdy for my tastes."
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Grousehaven Campground offers family-friendly water access. A camper reported, "Extremely family friendly with a nice beach, park, and picnic area. The campground was always well maintained and had some of the cleanest bathrooms and showers of any campground I have stayed at."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Grousehaven noted, "Great for our 'eastern' adventure up north. Sites require a reservation either at the office or Online," highlighting the need for advance planning when traveling with kids.
Winter glamping options: Glamping close to Rose City, Michigan extends into colder months at Luzerne Express Campground & RV. A camper explained, "There is an array of sites available plus RV's and Cabins for rent so winter camping here is a blast."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: For larger RVs, select campgrounds carefully. At Spruce Rustic Campground, a camper with a trailer mentioned, "Small, rustic, remote, clean and quiet. Large and level campsites that are well spaced."
Hookup availability: South Higgins Lake State Park Campground offers full service sites. "Try to get a full hook up site if you can.....no line to dump on your way out!" advised a frequent visitor. Another camper noted, "There are a few sites with full hook-ups," though they can be difficult to reserve.
Water access: Some campgrounds offer convenient water access for boats. A visitor to South Higgins Lake mentioned, "We stayed in the East loop of the campground and were by the boat launch which was very convenient because we could put in and leave our boat in overnight!"
