Bowman Bridge
4.5239 reviewsnull
Bowman Bridge
$30.00 - $110.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$110.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $30 for standard non-electric sites to $110 for group tent-only sites. No refunds are available for Scan & Pay payments. Reservation service fees are $8 online, $9 through the call center, and $3 in person. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's fee. Discounts apply for eligible senior passes only at individual campsites.
About this campground
Escape to Bowman Bridge Campground, where the pristine waters of the Pere Marquette National Scenic River create a natural soundtrack for your wilderness adventure. This secluded haven features 16 thoughtfully designed paved family campsites, each offering privacy among towering trees. For those seeking a more intimate connection with nature, four walk-in sites provide a peaceful retreat, while four spacious group camping areas welcome gatherings of up to 20 people, perfect for family reunions or outdoor celebrations under the stars.
Bowman Bridge Campground caters primarily to rustic camping preferences with options for family, walk-in, and group tent-only sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with history, where your campground serves as a gateway to the legendary North Country National Scenic Trail—an epic pathway stretching across seven states from New York to North Dakota. Just beyond the forest lies historic Idlewild, once known as the 'Black Eden of Michigan,' a resort community that hosted luminaries like W.E.B. Du Bois and Louis Armstrong. The nearby Bowman Lake Foot Travel Area preserves wilderness in its purest form, accessible only to those willing to explore on foot.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full beauty of Michigan's changing seasons at Bowman Bridge. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and rushing waters, while summer brings warm days perfect for river activities and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. Fall transforms the forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, and each season offers its own rewards. The most coveted camping weeks feature those magical combinations of sunshine, gentle breezes, and temperatures that make you want to stay outside from dawn to dusk.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryWake to mist rising from the crystal-clear Pere Marquette River, one of Michigan's most pristine waterways and a designated National Scenic River. Your campsite sits nestled within a vast expanse of protected forest, where morning light filters through the canopy and evening brings a symphony of wildlife. As visitor Frank Lowden noted, the 'large campsites spread out back in the woods' create a sense of true seclusion. Whether you're scanning the treetops for rare warblers, capturing the golden hour with your camera, or simply breathing in the pure forest air, this landscape offers endless opportunities for connection with the natural world.
Geological RegionBowman Bridge Campground rests along 66 miles of the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, a ribbon of crystal-clear water that has carved its path through the heart of the Huron-Manistee National Forests. This remarkable ecosystem represents one of Michigan's last unspoiled river corridors, surrounded by vast blocks of uninterrupted public land. The diverse terrain creates perfect habitats for wildlife viewing and offers adventurers miles of trails for hiking and exploration, while hunters find some of Michigan's most productive grounds within these ancient forests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBowman Bridge provides paved spurs at campsites, which can facilitate ease of access. However, detailed accessibility features for disabled campers are not explicitly outlined.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious, providing ample room for parking and activities. User reviews include comments such as 'Very large sites' and 'Plenty of space between the other campers.'
Sites PrivacyCampsites are considered fairly private. Reviews frequently note the spacing: 'Sites are large and private' and 'Nice big sites in a great location.' However, sites near the road may experience noise disturbances.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the road for reduced noise. Sites 5 and 12 recommended for privacy and cleanliness.
Best CampsitesCampsites 5 and 12 receive positive mentions for cleanliness and privacy. "Great site, very clean, well maintained and quiet" (David H).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limit of 2 vehicles or 1 RV per campsite
- a fee applies for additional vehicles.
Groups
Group tent-only sites accommodate up to 20 people each. These sites are noted for their size and privacy in user reviews, such as 'The group sites were larger and more private than expected.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout consisting of paved family sites, walk-in sites, and group tent-only areas.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 02, 2025 and closes October 12, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground has first-come, first-serve sites available. "Beware the campsite that you reserve in advance may not be available upon arrival" (Barry P).
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations can be made ahead of arrival for $10 (per reserved site). Cancellations incur a $10 fee, reservation fees are non-refundable, and late cancellations additionally forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bowman Bridge offers a mix of water-based and land-based recreational activities. Canoeing, fishing, and hiking are noted as the top three activities. The Pere Marquette National Scenic River provides opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, while trails connect to the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Hiking
Hiking trails include a connector to the North Country National Scenic Trail, offering scenic routes covering historical and cultural landmarks across seven states. User reviews highlight the trails for their proximity and access.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include brown trout, salmon, steelhead, and rainbow trout on the Pere Marquette River. User reviews frequently mention using the campground as a base for fishing trips.Boating
Boating activities are supported with nearby watercraft rentals and a canoe launch. Permits are required during specific times of the year for floating the river.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include birdwatching and spotting small mammals such as ground squirrels. The clear waters of the Pere Marquette River enhance the experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the sources.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are supported by the facilities and proximity to the Pere Marquette River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must use local firewood due to invasive species laws. "Don't move firewood" (Need-to-Know Section).
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM stated quiet hours; enforcement varies.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and biting flies are prevalent; ticks have been reported. "Ticks are terrible" (Traci S).
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 02, 2025 - October 12, 2025; May 02, 2026 - October 12, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, offering canoeing, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. "Great place to camp for fly fishing" (William M H).
Common complaintsNoise issues, proximity to highway, and presence of insects are recurring concerns. "Road noise was shockingly loud" (Tony Gibson). "Ticks are terrible" (Traci S). "Jerks with generators" (Maalseoxn2010).
HostHosts are praised for their hospitality and campground cleanliness. "Camp host was great" (Houston & Carolynn). "Hosts were right on top of everything" (Paul L).
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Baldwin, turn west on 7th Street, then left onto Cherry Street. Take the first right, W 52nd Street, and drive 5 miles. Look for signs into the campground.
Road access is good and paved. Signs to the campground are available.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
Firewood and ice are available on-site. Nearby Baldwin Canoe Livery offers additional supplies including watercraft rentals.
Camper Reviews
4.5
39 reviews
Bowman Bridge is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bowman Bridge emphasize its cleanliness, spacious sites, friendly hosts, and proximity to outdoor activities. Some complaints include noise disturbances from nearby roads or inconsiderate campers, as well as issues with pricing and privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted in reviews include clean and spacious campsites, well-maintained vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, and excellent access to the Pere Marquette River. Many users describe the...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include road noise, loud neighbors disregarding quiet hours, mosquitoes during warmer months, and occasional management issues such as double-booking of campsites.
Based on 39 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
User recommendations include preparing for rustic camping with no hookups, bringing mosquito repellents due to high populations, and ensuring reservations are confirmed with the host upon arrival....
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for fishing and kayaking but see higher complaints about noise, mosquitoes, and crowding. Fall is a preferred time for fishing trips and experiencing quieter conditions.
Based on 39 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were clean, sites were BiG. I will be back.' 2. 'Pit toilets were the cleanest I've ever seen.' 3. 'Hosts were right on top of everything. Also went beyond to help with some tools that...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback highlights Site 12 for privacy and cleanliness, but concerns about dead trees are noted. Site 14 received complaints due to a generator disrupting quiet hours. Group sites like...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are minimally mentioned, but paved spurs are noted to facilitate parking and camper movement.
Based on 39 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground's spacious sites provide ample room for pets to roam. No major complaints or issues regarding pet policies were noted.
Based on 39 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025