Claybanks Campground
03 reviews650 North Michigan Ave., Baldwin, MI 49304
Claybanks Campground
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Camping fees per night are $10 for a single site, and day use fees are $5 per vehicle or $15 for a seven-day pass. Payment is accepted in cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, Claybanks Campground offers an authentic wilderness retreat where anglers cast their lines for elusive brown trout and nature enthusiasts discover tranquility beneath towering pines and oaks. Adventure awaits down the campground's famously steep stairs—a heart-pumping descent that leads to a gravel riverbed perfect for fly-fishing and catch-and-release pursuits. This riverside sanctuary beckons those who seek the gentle rhythm of flowing water and the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
Claybanks Campground focuses on minimalism and outdoor connection, offering tent camping sites for a quiet experience near the river. There is no mention of RV facilities, group camping, cabin lodging, or luxury accommodations.
Historical SignificanceWhile the specific historical narrative of this site remains untold, Claybanks continues to write its own story through the generations of anglers who've waded its waters and families who've gathered around its campfires, creating new traditions along this celebrated scenic river.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Michigan's changing seasons at Claybanks, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings moderate temperatures ideal for riverside adventures and evening campfires, while autumn transforms the oak forest into a golden spectacle. Winter blankets the area in serene snow, though access may become challenging—making spring's arrival all the more sweet as the river awakens and fishing season begins anew.
ElevationPerched above the meandering Pere Marquette River, the campground offers a unique vantage point where the forested highlands meet the river valley below, creating the perfect setting for both riverside activities and elevated forest camping.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of pine and oak creates a living cathedral above, while the Pere Marquette River sparkles below, accessible via those memorable stairs. The forest canopy shelters abundant wildlife—lucky visitors often spot graceful deer moving through the understory at dawn and dusk. Where the campground meets posted private land, nature continues undisturbed, creating corridors for wildlife and ensuring the authentic wilderness experience remains intact.
Geological RegionSituated within the remarkable Pere Marquette National Scenic River corridor, Claybanks showcases the region's signature blend of northern hardwood and pine forests. This protected waterway has carved its path through Michigan's landscape, creating a diverse ecosystem where ancient oaks stand sentinel alongside whispering pines, and private lands buffer the wilderness, preserving the natural integrity of this treasured river system.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility information is provided in the sources.
Sites SizeSite size details are not mentioned.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as quiet and minimal, suggesting some degree of privacy, but exact details on site arrangements are not provided.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNone explicitly stated.
Best CampsitesUser reviews and sources did not specify particular campsites as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
Stay limit is undefined in the source.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified in the source.
Groups
No group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutParking accommodates 30 vehicles, but layout specifics of campsites are not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsSites may be reservable, but no platforms are detailed in the source.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot detailed explicitly in the source materials.
Cancellation PolicyPolicies about cancellations are not explicitly stated.
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers activities centered around nature and the river. Fishing is a popular activity, as the campground lies along a 'flies only, catch and release portion of the river.' Cheryl Allen advises visitors: 'Fishing is catch and release, so bring your own food.' Wildlife viewing is another highlighted activity, with the pine and oak forest described as 'a good area for wildlife watching.' Visitors may spot deer while heading to the river. Hiking opportunities are implied through the mention of steep stairs leading to river access, but no formal trails are specified.
Fishing
Fishing is available along the catch-and-release segment of the Pere Marquette River, known for its gravel bottom and suitability for brown trout. User Cheryl Allen noted: 'Fishing is catch and release, so bring your own food.'Wildlife viewing
The pine and oak forest offers wildlife viewing, with deer sightings mentioned as common near the river access path.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not feasible as the site is not maintained during winter; access roads and parking lots are not plowed.Water Sports
No information about non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention ticks are abundant, particularly in spring.
Active alertsNone specified.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station and District, located at 650 North Michigan Ave., Baldwin, MI 49304. Phone: (231) 745-4631
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingNo information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the Pere Marquette River, a gravel-bottom fly-fishing area.
Common complaintsTicks were notably mentioned as a nuisance in user reviews. Lack of potable water and limited phone service were highlighted.
HostNot provided.
Campground Map
650 North Michigan Ave., Baldwin, MI 49304
Driving directionsFrom Baldwin, travel west on 52nd St. for 0.25 miles. Turn left and travel south on Astor Rd. for 0.5 miles. Turn left and go south on S. Claybanks Rd. End at the site.
This site is accessible via paved roads but is not gated during the off-season, and road maintenance is not provided in winter, which may restrict access due to snow.Nearby places
Baldwin (approximately 1 mile, 5 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available at local stores such as Shell and Dollar General in Baldwin. User review highlighted helpful staff at Dollar General.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Claybanks Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the quiet and minimal nature of the campground, emphasizing its suitability for those seeking a connection with nature. Fishing and wildlife viewing are highlighted as enjoyable activities. Some complaints include the lack of potable water and sporadic cell phone service.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the peaceful environment and the clean restroom facilities. Cheryl Allen described the campground as 'very quiet' and suitable for connecting with nature. Trevor Schewe called it a...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the absence of potable water and occasional issues with cell phone reception. Cheryl Allen noted: 'Bring plenty of water because there's no fresh water there.' Wyn Verleger warned...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ample water for your stay, as potable water is unavailable. Prepare for steep stairs leading to the river, and be cautious about ticks in the area.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from May 1 to November 30. In summer, users enjoy fishing and wildlife watching. Winter use is limited as the site is not maintained, with roads and parking lots unplowed and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. Cheryl Allen: 'Very quiet. If you want a place to just connect with nature, as in trees, I would give it a 5.'
2. Trevor Schewe: 'Great place to camp. Very quiet, minimal everything which...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users generally describe the campground as peaceful and minimalistic but did not specify particular site numbers or areas.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and user Cheryl Allen mentioned traveling with dogs in her car during hot weather while visiting the campground.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025