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Van Riper State Park

The best camping in Van Riper State Park, MI

Discover Van Riper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

The best camping in Van Riper State Park, MI

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Van Riper Campground

0.3mi from Van Riper State Park · 190 sites · Tents, RVs · In Van Riper State Park

Loves water, will camp? Cool

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Van Riper State Park adventure.

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Stories from the community

Dan

2 weeks ago

6 nights at Bear Tree Homestead

Wonderfully beautiful cabin and property. A true homestead with cows, chickens, ducks, and a sauna. I will be recommending this place to as many people as possible. Can hike from cabin to Lake Superior on the North Country Trail! Phenomenal, very close to Marquette, but a feeling of great seclusion.

Lisa

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Lake Superior Beach Perfection

This site had amazing views of Lake Superior to the east and some tributaries to the west. It was just as described. Would definitely go back.

Connor

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gentle Breeze Camping

The shower was amazing as it was around 30° with windchill! Waking up near the lake is a bonus, you can catch a good sunrise and sunset here. This is my second time here and I am sure not the last.

Adriana

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

Shawn was super friendly and very helpful. The camping spot was absolutely gorgeous and secluded.

Phil

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lake Superior Beach Perfection

The view of sunrise was very impressive would definitely stay again the campsite was clean as well as porta potty traffic was very minimal

Liz

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

This was our second stay at the Orchard House, and it was every bit as magical as the first! Jill continues to be the perfect host — warm, attentive, and full of thoughtful touches (including another batch of her amazing homemade cookies!). The house itself is absolutely enchanting, from its cozy, well-appointed rooms to the peaceful property that feels like a true escape from the world. We loved being so close to the Hogback trailhead — it makes for the perfect day hike before coming back to unwind in such a serene setting. We can’t wait to return and try out the new sauna on our next visit! If you’re considering a stay at the Orchard House, don’t hesitate — it’s the kind of place that fills your soul and leaves you with memories you’ll want to relive again and again.

Benjamin

October 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

We had a fantastic stay here! The cabin was awesome- nice and cozy, while having good space. The land was amazing- a beautiful river & lake nearby. The host was fantastic as well, and it was lovely learning about the surrounding area from her!

Andrew Scott

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bear Tree Homestead

From the moment we arrived at the Pond Cabin, everything we experienced exceeded our expectations. The cabin itself was cute, cozy, and very clean. It had a lot more kitchen and camping supplies than we expected. Loved the layout. It comfortably slept three adults and two dogs. The woods surrounding it and the pond are very beautiful and serene. No road sounds or artificial light, just peaceful nature and the quaint farmhouse. We were welcomed by our gracious hosts and their dogs who made us feel very at home, were so friendly, and made great recommendations for hikes and experiences. The hike to Hogback mountain is a must. The view from the top and fall colors were just breathtaking and you can walk there right from the cabin! We spent most of a day hiking the NCT and were just blown away by the trails and views. None of us knew how great the traditional Finnish sauna and cold plunge (into the crystal clear spring fed pond?!?) would relax and rejuvenate us. Wow! Also worth mentioning it’s an easy, very pretty drive to Pictured Rocks. You can do it all. All I can say is we will definitely be back and would recommend it to anyone who’s looking for what must be the ultimate UP experience.

Becca

October 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Blueberry fields campground

My husband and I camped at Tom’s for one night and enjoyed it. We had the place to ourselves and the quiet, private, and secluded environment was exactly what we were looking for. Camp here if you’re not in need of electric, water, or sanitation and you can handle things not being as maintained as your standard campground. Thanks Tom!

Zachary

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Heritage Hills

Thank you to Joni & Phil for hosting us at such an amazing location. Our second time staying with them and it has been nothing but amazing. A beautiful place to stay with gorgeous scenery and many trails right in your backyard. Highly recommended to anyone visiting the Ishpeming/Marquette area!

Chris

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Heritage Hills

Fantastic little spot. The homestead was great with having power and a nice cozy setup. A real treat was waking up in the morning and seen the horse is grazing around us. The house were super friendly and great to talk to. Location wise it was perfect proximity to mountain bike trails everywhere. Especially close to the LSPR rally briefing.

Rick

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Heritage Hills

Everything was great! Easy to access. Everything worked as expected. Great location. Will probably be back next year.

Jonathan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Possum Creek Campground

So close to Marquette but so peacefully remote. Would absolutely stay again. So many excellent tent camping. Appreciate that this land was available.

Lorraine

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Constellation Farmstead

We loved the farm, it was great to see the everyday needs of the animals in a beautiful country setring. AJ was so helpful and welcoming. Madi makes awesome GF bread! Overall a great experience and location to visit the Keweenaw peninsula.

Amanda

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Heritage Hills

We loved our stay at Hole 1 very much! It was so quiet and peaceful. Portajohn was super clean. Hosts were very kind. Did a small walk from our campsite but could have spent more time to explore the trails around it because the fall colors were beautiful.

Cynthia

October 2025

18 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Heritage Hills

Great location and bring your mountain bikes! Joni and Phil were very welcoming. The sights were private and spacious. We were in our camper van and had plenty of room next to a fire pit and picnic table. Would definitely stay again and recommend to anyone. What we didn’t know about was all the wonderful bike trails adjacent to the property. We did have our mountain bike and took advantage of.

Scrambling up Hogback (10 minutes from the campsite)

Jayme

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

The Garden site at Possum Creek was perfect. It was gorgeous with the stream and Hogback right there. The site itself was nicely cleared yet tucked in. Shawn was a great host...friendly, helpful yet respectful of our wanting to find a little stillness. His directions about points of interest were spot on, including the rock-solid brew pub! Will certainly come back.

Dennis

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Possum Creek Campground

Loved the location! Just far enough into the wilderness to have the right "feel", yet close enough to town for anything Marquette offers. Warm, comfortable cabin with a wonderful, old northwoods character and rustic charm. Wish we could have stayed for a week.

Christian

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gentle Breeze Camping

Thank you Michael for a beautiful view of Sandy Lake!! The only thing I would change with our stay would be to update the toilet situation via install a toilet with water that’s plumbed into a drain field etc. The sauna was cool :) 🐻

Terri

October 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heritage Hills

Such a beautiful property with walking trails throughout. The fall colors were at peak and it was lovely & peaceful. Phil and Joni were wonderful hosts -- the kind of people that makes your stay even better. Both were very kind and fun to chat with. I mustn't forget to mention their sweet dogs. The little one, Becky, was my little guy's new best friend. And Silver - what a gentle soul. The beautiful black Collie is a bit stand-offish, but she finally let me pet her. If you're lucky, the two horses will visit you at your campsite. Heritage Hills is truly a gem. 💕

Top-rated campgrounds

Bear Tree Homestead

100%

(423)

25mi from Van Riper State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI

Bear Tree Homestead is nestled among the cliffs and ravines which drains the south face of Hogback Mountain located in Marquette Township Michigan. Hogback Mountain is one of the larger rock formations in the Huron Range, a surprisingly rugged, and diverse region of low mountains carved by glaciers. Each cabin is hand-built of log and stone using traditional Scandinavian building tools and techniques. The cabins have access to the pond, use of the canoe, a private fire pit, picnic table, charcoal grill and privy. Inside the cabins is a functional kitchen with dishes, flatware, pots and pans, so you can prepare meals onsite. Cabins also have table and chairs as well soft chairs/sofa sitting area, bookshelves with a variety of books, board games and puzzles, and covered porch in case of rain. Our buildings, gardens, and pastures are integrated into the forested landscape and are not your typical homestead. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, collect fresh eggs (when they are laying), lay in the hammock, listen to the sounds of nature and the barnyard or take an adventure hike, bike ride, snowshoe, or ski right out the door. One of the most wonderful things we have to offer is the accessibility to thousands of protected acres surrounding us and the trails that bisect them. The property is on the North Country Trail, just over a Noquemanon Trail Network Forestville trailhead where access to year round recreation awaits. Hogback Mountain is just up the trail from the cabin with spectacular views of forest, mountains and lake superior. We are located 8 miles from downtown Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula where there are many great restaurants, shops, and brewpubs. However, once you drive into Bear Tree Homestead and settle in you will not want to leave.

Lake Superior Beach Perfection

96%

(101)

45mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lake Linden, MI

What more do you need than a private camping site and your 125' of your own pristine Lake Superior beachfront access? Well, there is the need of a fire ring so we added that, too! Everything else you will to bring to enjoy the million dollar views. Oh, and on the opposite side of the camping site is quiet slough which is great for smooth water paddling and exploring. Down the gravel road about 1/3 miles are logging roads to hike, bike and explore. OHV trails are a couple miles away but check local maps for detailed information. Intentionally being minimalists beyond a fire ring and picnic table, there is a port-a-john (of humble means) to make your stay comfortable. You will need to bring your own firewood if you desire a campfire.

Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

98%

(89)

25mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · L'anse, MI

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby.

Northern Lights & Firefly Nights

48mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · RV · Rock, MI

This is a fun, solar-lit RV "Glamping" site for up to a 30 ft self-contained w/toilet camper; site is located in Rock, MI. Max 4 campers. The RV site makes a great homebase if you are adventure seeking in the central Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Rock is 34 miles from Escanaba and 46 miles from Marquette. Both cities offer great restaurants, unique breweries, art galleries, hiking, biking, and kayaking rivers and lakes. The site is approx. 5 mi away from access to the Escanaba River for kayaking/tubing/trout fishing (you need your own equipment). Ride your utv right from the site taking the county roads/2 rut roads out to the river for a nice ride or have fun playing in the mud right after the rain:) Play at your own risk! There is a convenience store for gas, beer, wine, food and the necessities located 4 miles away; along with a local restaurant/bar. The RV site offers a unique experience with all of its solar lighting to glamp up your camping experience in the woods. Take the time to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoor firefly dining, take a nature walk, a nap in a hammock, do outdoor yoga, listen to the birds and/or maybe you'll get a glimpse of the "Northern Lights". Rest, relax and rejuvenate. Wifi is sketchy. A pet is allowed on a leash; other dog is on property. Pickup dog waste. Outdoor Amenities: An outdoor kitchen fully stocked w/cooking gear: tri-pod grilling, utensils, pots and pans. Small table-top herb garden to add to your cooking experience. Outdoor Dining by solar lighting; "Firefly Night" Dining. Firepit and sitting/chair area (with the add-on option of magical, colorful flame packets and s’more kits w/Yooper bars from Sayklly’s Candies). Firewood available for purchase on-site. Hammock pod w/2 hammocks. Layering is essential for comfort outdoors. Campfire must be kept in fire ring. Do not leave fire unattended. Can forage for firewood on the ground; NO cutting/breaking off of trees allowed. Fire ring should not be used as a garbage pit. Trash receptacle can be found in the site. Fire ring is cleaned after each visitor; a $20 fee will be charged for glass, cans or nails found in the fire ring. NO firearms, air guns, bb guns, sling shots, or fireworks. NO parties or events. 911 or St Francis Hospital (906)786-5707(Escanaba)

Constellation Farmstead

96%

(39)

39mi from Van Riper State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pelkie, MI

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Constellation Farmstead. We are a multi-faceted agritourism destination combining farming, homesteading and leisure. We are located in a quaint and quiet area of the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We currently have camping space available both for tents and camping with an RV. For animals we currently have 3 pigs, 12 chickens, a handful of ducks and 8 of the softest rabbits you will ever meet. We also have a husky named Lakota who is always on leash with us as well as 2 cats, one of which spends much of his time outside. Our hiking trails are open, and markers are being added. You are welcome to hike through our property on your own or we are always happy to join. Our disc golf course will be open with t pads and baskets once the ground is firm enough to get everything set up! In the years to come, our beautiful barn will become a venue for weddings as well as a suite and rentable rooms where you can stay. We’ll also be continuing to grow our family farm, orchard and of course our growing array of animals for you to visit. For guests we also have a community fire pit in our yard and host fires most nights that we have guests. We also have a sauna that we heat up many nights so feel to let us know if these things interest you.

Da Sugarbush on Stanley Lake

96%

(28)

47mi from Van Riper State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Iron River, MI

You'll be camping on our Stanley lake sugarbush property. Lakefront sites have power and water - are located in a grassy clearing on the shores of Stanley Lake. ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGING OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES ON PROPERTY!! Primitive sites are amongst the maple trees of our sugarbush operation, within walking distance of the lake. These sites do not yet have water or electricity, but water is available from spigots at the lake clearing. Stanley lake is just shy of 400 acres, known for walleye and bass. It is an all sports lake with no limited wake hours. Feel free to roam our woods - you will notice the blue maple lines come to an end at our east and west property lines, as well as a no trespassing sign on the lake clearing to the west line. Deer here are plentiful, and you can often get them to eat from your hand, provided you have apples. Iron county has a tremendous ORV/snowmobile trail system. You can drive your machine right from our property to the trails. There are two golf courses in the area, as well as a vast bicycle trail system. Ski Brule ski hills and sporting clay operation are a few miles from the property. Countless acres of public land for recreation!

Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

98%

(192)

22mi from Van Riper State Park · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Marquette, MI

Your host property is 13 acres between the Yellow Dog River, and Bear Lake, with frontage on both. The Yellow Dog River is a legendary trout stream, and many artists have found that the river satisfies their need for the wild. There are two cabin sites available, One overlooking Bear Lake with sunset views, and the other a cabin that was moved to the property in 1999 to preserve it. Both sites share amenities such as the outhouse, communal fire pit and water, but the cabins are not in close proximity so everyone has their privacy. They are both rustic cabins having no running water, or electricity. A futon with mattress cover is provided in each cabin along with a table and chairs. See the individual site descriptions for more details. We are 20 miles (app) north of Marquette, which is my home town. It is a destination for bikers, skiiers, and outdoor rec folk! There are so many things to see and do in Marquette, so make sure to plan enough time to check out the town! Also, just six miles to our north is historic Big Bay. A lumber town back in the day, it is full of history. Check out the Thunder Bay Inn, where parts of Anatomy of a Murder, starring Jimmy Stewart and Lee Remick were filmed. Don't miss going to the Lumberjack to see where the actual murder took place, either! You will find good eats and perhaps even some live music at either establishment. You'll also find everything you need in the way of groceries, and gas at Cram's General Store, where there's also a laundromat. Burns landing just north of the marina has the historic Burns family home renovated in a park setting, and a public beach access to mighty Lake Superior. This park has picnic tables and grills, and even a handicap accessible outhouse and trail to the lake. Yellow Dog falls is a short drive on Co. Road 510, and on the way be sure to climb Thomas Rock overlook. There are new bike trails if you're into that as well! Stay awhile. You'll be glad you did! We strive to offer peace and serenity to our guests, and love to share these woods with those needing tranquility and respite from a busy world. In this sensitive environmental area, we have only two sites to keep traffic down, enhance our visitors experience, and to protect the wildlife here. Unplug with us, eh!

Heritage Hills

100%

(369)

16mi from Van Riper State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Ishpeming, MI

Heritage Hills isn't called Heritage Hills for nothing! It's situated on 21 acres of what was the original Wawonowin Country Club, a 9-hole golf course that was built in the early 1800s and then closed in the mid 1960s. And now we have a beautiful mix of hardwoods and pines, forests and fields with multiplied non-motorized trails accessible right off the property. The very popular RAMBA bike trails are literally an ‘stones throw’ away! Our biggest site, Fairway Field is big enough for group camping that horse campers love, and one site, the Homestead, with an electric hookup. We don’t have a dump station or trash cans so please pack in and pack out. Phone signal is good throughout the area and we are close to civilization for necessities and only 20 minutes from Marquette. So much stuff to do in this area!

Possum Creek Campground

99%

(81)

25mi from Van Riper State Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Trowbridge Park, MI

ATTENTION: Please note the following before requesting booking: 1. County Road HD road conditions require 4-wheel drive. 2. Campers are required to sign a waiver on arrival protecting property owner of all liability related to risks associated with wilderness camping. 3. Please provide an estimated time of arrival on the morning of arrival and plan to arrive by 8:00 p.m. This is necessary in order to be available to assist campers with finding sites and other needs. Please also message if your plans have changed and you will not arrive as scheduled. Read more about the sites and property below: Site 1, The Falls Site, is limited to 2 campers who must hike approximately 1/4 mile to the site from parking. Site 2, The Garden Site, has vehicle access. This 80 acres has been family-owned for almost a century and has not been cut in that time. Many trees are mature. The southern half is home to 8 charcoal kilns which employed a community prior to ownership. The mountain is approximately 1.8 billion years old. Learn more about this land: This property has 2 tent sites at the western base of Hogback Mountain. Site 1, The Falls Site, is located on a spring fed stream. The hike from parking to tent site is 1/4 mile on a well-marked hilly path. Campers can park at the main property on County Road HD or on the Garden Road, and will need to pack supplies to their site. Site 2, The Garden Site, is 100 feet from the stream and campers can drive to and park their vehicles at the site. Site 3, Mountain View Cabin, includes an outhouse and sauna. Sites have picnic tables, fire pits, and an outhouse. Campers are responsible for removal of all other waste. The 2-foot wide stream provides water for washing, but is not considered potable, and use of filters or boiling water is recommended. These isolated sites are beautiful and rustic and nestled in the midst of the Noquemanon Trail Network (cross country skiing and mountain biking) and North Country Trails and are approximately 2 miles from Lake Superior, Harlow Lake and Dead River. 4 kayaks/paddles/life vests and a 12 foot boat are available for camper use. First come, first serve. You transport.

Stoney Moose BnB

100%

(9)

34mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Gwinn, MI

A unique farm experience awaits. Offering a glamorous camping excusion set in the heart of the Upper peninsula. The tent is situated within a cottage garden setting for a relaxing and quaint camping adventure. We have created a one of kind yooperesque flushing toilet outhouse for a complete UP escapade.

Gentle Breeze Camping

98%

(101)

45mi from Van Riper State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Toivola, MI

This is a dark sky private campground on Sandy Lake. Very quiet, private dock, sandy beach, great for fishing, kayaking or just relaxing. ATV's by approval, there will be no loud ATV's, no running ATV's other then entry and exit, if there are complaints from other campers you will be asked to leave New this year is a sauna with shower, this is an electric sauna , use will be by donation. Sauna is not part of base fee, additional cost for sauna Learn more about this land: Open fields and woods with lake access. There is a private dock with swimming, great for kayaking There is a near by public fishing site, 3 miles from General store from other lakes nearby with public access as well. We look forward to hosting you! We are located in Twin Lakes Michigan , 2.3miles south of M-26 on 29839 Pike Lake Road Very private setting There is no electricity on site Campers responsible for garbage removal There is now a outhouse toilet on site Enjoy the relief! There is a limit of 2 dogs per site, Dogs to be on leash if not friendly to people or other dogs IN PREVIOUS YEARS I OFFERED A FREE SITE IF YOU BOOKED 2 SITES THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Boundary Acres

95%

(21)

46mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Chassell, MI

Learn more about this land: A quiet setting, nested amid tall pines and maples. Explore the pristine Pilgrim River Watershed trails just across the road from the campsite. This convenient location is only 10 minutes from Houghton and Michigan Tech.

Other options near Van Riper State Park

Schoolcraft Township Park

46mi from Van Riper State Park · 11 sites · Lake Linden, MI

Discover the charm of the Schoolcraft Township Big Traverse Bay Rustic Campground, a hidden gem nestled along the picturesque south shore of Keweenaw. This unique campground offers an unparalleled experience with its stunning sandy beaches on Lake Superior, where visitors can witness breathtaking sunrises that set the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. The campground features eight rustic tent sites, each equipped with a fire ring, allowing guests to cook meals and enjoy cozy campfires under the stars. In late August, the area comes alive with wild blueberries and huckleberries, providing a delightful foraging opportunity for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the campground includes two rustic RV trailer sites, though please note that there are no hookups available. Surrounded by natural beauty, the campground is an ideal base for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the scenic landscapes of the region. Nearby attractions include charming local shops and restaurants, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a perfect camping experience. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the Schoolcraft Township Big Traverse Bay Rustic Campground promises an unforgettable escape into nature.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Moose Rapids Campground

8.1mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Republic, MI

Nestled in the heart of nature, Republic Township offers a unique rustic camping experience that immerses visitors in the tranquility of the great outdoors. This campground is designed specifically for transient and temporary stays, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a brief escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its spacious acreage, campers can enjoy a sense of privacy while surrounded by the beauty of the natural landscape. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, providing access to various activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby natural features. In addition to its scenic surroundings, Republic Township is conveniently located near local restaurants and shops, allowing visitors to explore the charm of the community. Whether you're looking to unwind by the campfire or embark on an adventure, this campground offers a memorable experience for all who visit.

Pets

Toilets

Farquar-Metsa Tourist Park

31mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Gwinn, MI

Nestled along the scenic Escanaba River in Forsyth Township, Farquar - Metsa Tourist Park and Campground is celebrated as Gwinn’s “hidden gem” for nearly seventy years, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Just 20 miles from Marquette, this campground provides easy access to swimming and kayaking, making it an ideal destination for water enthusiasts. Our picturesque campground features 20 full hookup RV sites and 13 rustic tent-only sites, each equipped with a fire ring and picnic table for your comfort and enjoyment. Guests can take advantage of essential amenities, including clean restrooms, hot showers, and a convenient dump station. Whether you're looking to relax by the river or explore the surrounding natural attractions, Farquar - Metsa Tourist Park and Campground is the perfect spot for a memorable outdoor experience. Enjoy the tranquility of nature while being close to local restaurants and shops, ensuring you have everything you need for a fantastic getaway.

Pets

Toilets

Runkle Lake Camping

33mi from Van Riper State Park · 64 sites · Crystal Falls, MI

Experience the charm of Runkle Lake Campground, a unique destination nestled in the heart of Iron County's stunning Upper Peninsula. This picturesque campground offers a perfect blend of serene lakeside camping and easy access to the vibrant festivals and activities in Crystal Falls. Whether you prefer the simplicity of pitching a tent, the comfort of setting up your trailer, or the convenience of our full hook-up sites with automatic jacks, we have the ideal camping option to suit your needs. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, our campground is a gateway to a variety of outdoor adventures. Enjoy swimming in nearby lakes, hiking scenic trails, or exploring local shops and restaurants. Runkle Lake Campground is not just a place to stay; it's a hub for unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors.

Pets

Toilets

Camping in the Clouds

43mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Florence, WI

Discover the charm of our unique campground, nestled on 73 acres of breathtaking scenery, where rustic beauty meets modern amenities. With 70 spacious campsites available for both seasonal and transient guests, our campground is designed to provide a comfortable and memorable outdoor experience. Each site is equipped with 20/30/50 amp electric service and water, and nearly all offer full sewer hookups for your convenience. For those seeking a distinctive lodging experience, we feature two inviting sleeping cabins, a cozy yurt, and a well-appointed park model. Our campground is not just about camping; it’s a hub of activities and relaxation. Enjoy our impressive 8,000-square-foot bar and restaurant, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. With direct access to ATV trails and a heated indoor pool, you can indulge in year-round fun and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for thrilling outdoor activities or a serene retreat, our campground strikes the ideal balance between rustic charm and modern comfort. Come and experience the perfect getaway!

Pets

Toilets

Rivers Bend RV Resort and Campground

46mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Iron Mountain, MI

Nestled along the picturesque Menominee River just north of Iron Mountain, MI, Rivers Bend RV Resort stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This family-friendly resort offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal spot for creating unforgettable memories. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including hot showers, a dog park, and a playground for the little ones. The resort's prime location provides easy access to thrilling riverside activities such as fishing, paddling, and UTVing, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. With its convenient proximity to both Michigan and Wisconsin, Rivers Bend RV Resort serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby natural attractions, swimming holes, and local dining options. Whether you're looking to unwind or embark on an outdoor adventure, this resort is designed to cater to all your needs while immersing you in the beauty of nature.

Pets

Toilets

Rippling River Resort

27mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Marquette, MI

Discover the unique charm of Rippling River Resort and Campground, a hidden gem just minutes from downtown Marquette. This serene retreat is set on over 57 acres of pristine land along the picturesque Carp River, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure for all types of campers. Whether you prefer the simplicity of rustic tent sites or the comfort of luxury log cabins, Rippling River has accommodations to suit every preference. The resort boasts a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable getaway for guests of all ages. Explore the extensive network of mountain biking and hiking trails right within the resort grounds, or take advantage of the ski-in access from your cabin at the base of Marquette Mountain. For those looking to unwind, spend a leisurely afternoon by the river with your favorite book or enjoy the nearby swimming holes. With a range of outdoor activities, local restaurants, and shops just a stone's throw away, Rippling River Resort is the ideal destination for your next adventure or peaceful retreat.

Pets

Toilets

Gitche Gumee RV Park and Campground

36mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Marquette, MI

Experience the unique charm of our campground, where you can enjoy a cozy campfire either on-site or right by the pristine beach. Our beach is renowned for being the cleanest in the area, providing a serene escape for those seeking tranquility. Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Superior, our campground offers a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with nature. Picture yourself surrounded by breathtaking scenery, sharing special moments with loved ones as you gather around an open fire under the stars. In addition to the beautiful beach, our location provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and exploring nearby natural attractions. After a day of adventure, you can indulge in local dining options and visit charming shops in the vicinity. Come and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic setting!

Pets

Toilets

Little Lake State Forest Campground

35mi from Van Riper State Park · 1 site · Gwinn, MI

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Little Lake, this charming campground stands out for its serene natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. Located in Marquette County, just 5 miles east of Gwinn, it offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rustic experience. The campground is enveloped by a mix of upland hardwoods and lowland conifers, providing a shaded retreat for visitors. A centrally located small beach area invites guests to relax and enjoy the scenic views. Little Lake is a haven for fishing and paddle sports, making it an ideal spot for those looking to cast a line or explore the waters. Managed by the Escanaba Field Office, this campground ensures a well-maintained environment for all visitors. With its unique blend of natural features and outdoor activities, it promises a memorable getaway for families and adventurers alike. Whether you're swimming, fishing, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, this campground is a delightful destination for nature lovers.

Pets

Raging River Resort

26mi from Van Riper State Park · 4 sites · Harvey, MI

Escape to Raging River Resort, Marquette’s premier wilderness campground. Surrounded by lush forest and flowing rivers, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Enjoy hiking, fishing, and outdoor fun, all just minutes from town. Experience nature, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.

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Toilets

Campfires

The best camping in Van Riper State Park, MI guide

Overview

About

Sun up to sun down and stay van-stoked at Van Riper State Park. Bordered by half a mile of luscious lake length, this 1055-acre park is waiting for YOU to come and take the plunge into nature. Disconnect all 'pads and phones and pods and connect to the “I” within. The docks here aren’t just good for fishin’. Use them as a stage to align those mixed up chakras, and yoga your morning aches away.

Hike, swim, bike, swim, repeat. It’s all about gratitude folks, find yourself in the North side of the park and you may be rewarded with a moose sighting! Find the effects of fresh air intoxicating? Stay a night, heck a week! Van Riper’s got the C&C (campgrounds & cabins) for your Z's.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Van Riper State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the park is full of life. However, autumn also offers a spectacular display of fall colors. Winters can be harsh and are best suited for snow-based activities, while spring may bring unpredictable weather and muddy trails.

Know before you go

Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry, as it's required for access.
Check the trail conditions before you set out, especially after inclement weather.
Remember to pack out all your trash and leave the park as pristine as you found it.
For those planning to hike, sturdy footwear is recommended due to the varied terrain.
Be aware of park-specific safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

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