Sparrow Rapids Campground

Open — Currently open through reduced services period. Full services ended October 20, 2025. No garbage collection provided; pack out all trash. Campground remains accessible until snow conditions close forest roads, typically in late fall or early winter.

About

Sparrow Rapids Campground provides visitors with a rustic camping experience near both the Ontonagon Wild and Scenic River and designated wilderness areas in Ottawa National Forest. This limited-service campground features six campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and motor homes, with river access available via a path between sites 3 and 4. The East Branch of the Ontonagon River is popular for brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, steelhead, salmon, smallmouth bass, and walleye fishing. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water available, so campers must bring their own drinking water. The facility is maintained from May 15 through October 15, with reduced services beginning October 20 when garbage collection ends. The campground remains accessible until snow conditions make the forest roads impassable. Sparrow Rapids is located in the Kenton Ranger District, approximately 3 miles northwest of Kenton via Forest Highway 16 and Forest Road 1100. The terrain around the campground ranges from easy to difficult, making it suitable for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. A small picnic area near the river provides additional day-use opportunities. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days.

Directions

From Kenton take Forest Highway 16 north 1/4 mile to Forest Road 1100. Turn left onto FR 1100 and travel northwest for 3 miles to the campground.

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