Paint River Forks Campground
Open for the 2026 season. Maintained access from May 22 through September 30. No fees, no reservations. No potable water available; pack in and pack out all trash. Fire danger across Ottawa National Forest is currently Very High.
Special Weather Statement issued May 22 at 3:49AM EDT by NWS Marquette MI
Gusty southeast winds as high as 20 to locally 25 mph, combined with dry conditions will lead to elevated wildfire potential this afternoon across most of Upper Michigan away from the shorelines of the Great Lakes. Avoid outdoor burning today. Immediately report any wildfires to local emergency services by calling 911. Burn restrictions remain in effect. For complete details, visit www.dnr.state.mi.us/burnpermits, or by calling 866-922-2876.
About
Paint River Forks Campground sits at the scenic junction where the North and South Branches of the Paint River merge in the Ottawa National Forest. This small, rustic campground provides riverbank tent camping with direct access to quality brook trout fishing and paddling opportunities. The North Branch Paint River offers roughly 12.5 miles of floatable water, with a 7-mile stretch ending at this campground from FR 2152. Facilities are minimal: a single vault toilet is the only amenity. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Trash service is not provided; pack out everything you pack in. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees. Access is via County Road 657 north of Iron River. While the campground is technically open year-round, maintained access and site upkeep run only from late May through September, with snow typically closing the road in winter.
Directions
From Iron River, MI, travel west on US 2, turn right (north) on CR 657, travel approximately 9 miles north, turn left to continue following CR 657, travel approximately 1.5 miles west to campground on right.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 358-4551 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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