Van Riper State Park Campground
The campground is currently open for the 2026 season. The modern campground operates seasonally from spring through fall, while the park itself is open year-round. Reservations are available through MiDNRReservations.com. A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry.
Special Weather Statement issued June 5 at 5:02PM EDT by NWS Marquette MI
At 502 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over West Ishpeming, or near Ishpeming, moving east at 20 mph. HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 40 mph and half inch hail. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible. Locations impacted include... Ishpeming, Negaunee, and West Ishpeming.
About
Van Riper State Park encompasses over 1,000 acres of Upper Peninsula wilderness, providing campers with access to both Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River. The modern campground features 147 sites divided into two loops with electric hookups, including some sites with 50-amp service. Sites are mostly shaded and equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Facilities include flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, a dump station, and free WiFi near the restrooms. The rustic campground offers 40 additional sites set in the woods, appealing to campers seeking a more primitive experience with vault toilets and hand-pump water. A separate group camping area with 9 sites is located near the Peshekee River. The park's day-use area features a sandy swim beach, accessible playground, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and a concession stand. Paved roads throughout the campground make navigation easy for RVs up to 50 feet. The surrounding area is known for moose sightings, and the park connects to hiking trails including the Overlook Trail. Winter activities are available when the modern campground is closed, with the rustic cabin remaining open year-round.
Directions
Located 35 miles west of Marquette off U.S. Highway 41 in Champion, Michigan.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | Yes |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 - $37 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 50ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 50ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | Yes |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (906) 339-4461 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
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