Indian River Campground

Star0
5 reviews
Indian River Campground
$22.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

The standard non-electric site fee is $22, while a double campsite for two camp units costs $44 per night. Federal Recreation Passes (Golden/America the Beautiful) are accepted for discounts.
Share this campground
USFSProvider

About this campground

Perched majestically on a scenic bluff above the winding Indian River, this tranquil campground serves as a haven for paddlers exploring the renowned Indian River Canoe Trail. Here, the gentle murmur of flowing water mingles with rustling leaves, creating a symphony of nature that beckons overnight adventurers seeking peaceful waterfront camping beneath towering trees.
The Indian River Campground is best suited for dispersed camping and caters to a rustic and back-to-nature experience. It is noted for its convenience as an overnight stop for canoeists on the Indian River Canoe Trail.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your campsite atop the dramatic river bluff, you'll discover a landscape where ancient trees cast cooling shadows across well-worn paths. A charming trail winds down through the forest canopy to the river's edge below, where crystal-clear waters teem with prized trout that draw anglers from near and far. The interplay of elevated vistas and intimate riverside moments creates an enchanting backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast wilderness of Hiawatha National Forest, Indian River Campground claims its spectacular position on a natural bluff carved by centuries of flowing water. This elevated perch offers commanding views of the Indian River below, while a scenic trail connects campers to the water's edge, establishing the site as an essential waypoint for canoeists navigating the celebrated Indian River Canoe Trail through Michigan's pristine northwoods.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified in the provided materials.
Sites SizeSpecific details about campsite sizes are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as spacious and clean by some reviewers, but no detailed privacy information is provided.
Total Campsites13 campsites

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
14
Check-out
14
Stay Limit
No information provided
Guests Allowed Per Site
No details are provided on guest limits
Groups
Not mentioned in the provided details.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Open and Closed SeasonOpen Season May 17, September 5
Reservation Platforms"Federal Recreation Passes (Golden/America the Beautiful) are accepted"
Walk-in Availabilityundefined
Cancellation Policy"Federal Recreation Passes (Golden/America the Beautiful) are accepted"

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at the Indian River Campground focus on outdoor and water-based adventures. Canoeists find the site convenient due to its location along the Indian River Canoe Trail. Additional activities include fishing and boating.
Fishing
Fishing is popular in the Indian River, which is known to contain large trout in certain areas. One user review highlights the difficulty of accessing some fishing spots, adding to the challenge for anglers.
Boating
The campground is a key stop along the Indian River Canoe Trail, making it ideal for non-motorized boating activities.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the provided information.
Water Sports
The campground supports water sports like canoeing, given its location along the Indian River Canoe Trail.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards


Weather forecast

59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 54%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 9.3 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky
7-Day Forecast

Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.

Daily & Hourly Insights

View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.

Temperature Trends

Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.

Precipitation Trends

Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.

Weather Summaries

Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.

Subscribe to unlock detailed weather insights

Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

No specific emergency services were mentioned in the source materials.

Good to know

Peak season datesNo specific detailed information for peak season opening and closure of peak season null.
Trash and recyclingA user review notes the presence of recycling bins, but no further details are provided about trash and recycling facilities.

Campground Map

Driving directionsFrom Munising travel east to the intersection of M-28 and M-94 located in Shingleton. Turn right and drive south 14.2 miles on M-94 to the campground. From Manistique drive north 19.8 miles on M-94 to the campground.
"Easy access right from the main road," as described in user reviews. Access appears to be straightforward, though no specific navigation challenges were noted.
Nearby places
Munising (approximately 14.2 miles southeast), Manistique (approximately 19.8 miles north)
Nearby supplies
No detailed information was available in the sources provided about nearby supplies. Additional research would be required for accurate details.

Camper Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Indian River Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the natural beauty of the campground, its spacious and clean sites, and its location directly on the Indian River. While most reviews are positive, the lack of modern amenities like restrooms and potable water is noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects highlighted by users include the beautiful location on the Indian River, clean and spacious campsites, and proximity to the Indian River Canoe Trail.
Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Common concerns include the lack of restrooms and potable water. One user mentioned a freak microburst damaging the campground but noted that no one was harmed.
Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend this site for its tranquil environment and suitability for canoeing. Anglers are advised to explore the hard-to-access areas for large trout.
Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground is most appreciated during its operational season (May 17 - September 5) due to favorable weather and access to the Indian River Canoe Trail.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nice little campground. Sites were free of debris and right on the Indian river.' - David S. 2. 'BEAUTIFUL area!! Love the view of the water and close to Kitch-iti-kipi.' - Jennifer D. 3....
Show more
Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site numbers or areas within the campground were highlighted in reviews.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

No information on accessibility experiences from users with disabilities is provided.
Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies or experiences are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 5 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Hiawatha National Forest
Indian River Campground