Bowman Bridge Recreation Area Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 3, 2025 through October 10, 2025. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Bowman Bridge Campground is nestled along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River in the Huron-Manistee National Forests, offering true nature immersion in a recovering forest landscape. The campground features 16 paved family campsites in a single loop, 4 walk-in family sites, and 4 tent-only group sites that can each accommodate up to 20 people. Due to a tornado that passed through in 2005, the campground has less dense tree cover and shade than neighboring sites, but visitors can witness the natural recovery process. The location provides exceptional access to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, one of Michigan's premier waterways for paddling and fishing. Anglers can cast for brown trout, rainbow trout, salmon, and steelhead in the clear waters. A special watercraft permit is required for floating the river from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, with watercraft hours limited to 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during that period. Two nearby liveries in Baldwin offer canoe and kayak rentals. Hikers can access the North Country National Scenic Trail via a connector trail from the campground. This 4,600-mile trail spans seven states and passes through scenic and historic areas. The surrounding area features large blocks of public land ideal for birdwatching, photography, and hunting. The campground also serves as a gateway to explore the Bowman Lake Foot Travel Area and the nearby river access point at Bowman Bridge, which is popular during summer weekends.

Directions

From Baldwin, turn west on 7th Street, then left onto Cherry Street. Take the first right onto W 52nd Street and drive 5 miles. Look for signs into the campground on the right.

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