Michigan / Wexford County / Manistee National Forest / Manistee National Forest - Cadillac Ranger District

Peterson Bridge

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens mid-May and operates through mid-October. The campground is gated when closed.

About

Peterson Bridge Campground is the only Forest Service campground on the Pine River in Michigan's Manistee National Forest. The campground offers approximately 30 sites, including standard RV sites and ten walk-in or paddle-in tent sites along the riverbank. The location directly on the Pine River makes it a favorite destination for canoeists and kayakers looking to experience one of the fastest-flowing rivers in lower Michigan. The lower 26 miles of the Pine River have been designated a National Wild and Scenic River, and the river is renowned as a Blue Ribbon cold-water trout fishery. With a gradient of 7%, the Pine River offers some of the most challenging and exciting paddling in the Midwest. Several nearby outfitters provide canoe rentals for those looking to float the river. A watercraft permit system is in effect from May 15 through Labor Day. The campground features flush toilets, drinking water, and a boat launch across the river at Peterson Bridge North. Sites offer shade and seclusion among mixed forest. The area is gated when closed during the off-season. Standard sites are $24 per night, while walk-in riverside sites are $12 per night.

Directions

From the north: Follow M-37 south 1.5 miles from its junction with M-55. Turn left into the campground after crossing the bridge over the Pine River. From the south: Follow M-37 north 21.5 miles from Baldwin. Turn right into the campground before crossing the Pine River bridge.

Nearby Campgrounds