Van Riper is cozied up on the east end of Lake Michigamme, and the views are absolutely gorgeous. Provides accessibility to a nice bike trail & beautiful hiking trail across the highway. We went on a family camping trip and upon initial arrival, I noticed that the sites at the electrical campground are very close together, and there isn’t much space for activities if you don’t want to be in someone else’s site. It seemed like modern camping suburbia with how many campers and RV’s were at this campground. Lots of kids and families running around, as there are parks and trails all around the campground. It was hard to find a place that we could be alone with nature, but otherwise was a very comfortable place to stay. Our site was right across from the restrooms and shower facilities, so the foot and car traffic was a little much for my liking but to be expected. The facilities were well kept and very clean from what we noticed. The rustic campground is where I wished we had camped at. It seemed a little more like “camping” with tents and more of a “roughing it out in the sticks” type vibe. I guess that depends of each persons personal preference on camping itself. Overall, I enjoyed the time spent at Van Riper with family. It is a large yet lovely & charming campground focused on family bonding and making memories.