Elk Canoe Campground
01 review650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304
Elk Canoe Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Day use at the site is free. Watercraft permits are required during Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. No other fees are explicitly mentioned.
About this campground
Nestled within sun-dappled forest clearings along the pristine Pere Marquette National Scenic River, Elk Canoe Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience that captures the essence of Michigan's wilderness. This rustic retreat stretches along 66 miles of nationally designated scenic waterway, where anglers cast their lines into crystal-clear waters and paddlers drift beneath towering canopies. Here, the simple pleasures of camping take center stage—crackling campfires, starlit skies, and the gentle murmur of the river creating a soundtrack for unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Elk Canoe Campground offers rustic camping options, ideal for those looking for a more primitive and natural experience.
Historical SignificanceThe Pere Marquette River corridor whispers stories of Michigan's past, from Native American heritage to the logging era that shaped the region. While specific historical markers may be absent from the campground itself, visitors paddle the same waters that have served as highways for centuries of human connection with this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the vibrant awakening of May through the golden days of October, Elk Canoe Campground transforms with each passing season. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and eager trout, while summer brings warm, languid days perfect for river floats and evening firefly displays. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forests burst into a spectacular show of crimson and gold, creating a photographer's paradise. The campground embraces its seasonal rhythm, closing for winter when snow blankets the landscape and the river runs cold and quiet, allowing nature to rest and renew for another year of adventure.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain follows the natural contours of the river valley, creating an accessible wilderness experience where the landscape unfolds at a comfortable pace for explorers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from the Pere Marquette River, where forest openings create natural amphitheaters of wilderness beauty. These clearings, carpeted with native grasses and wildflowers, provide perfect camping spots while maintaining intimate connections to the surrounding woodlands. The river itself serves as the campground's centerpiece—a ribbon of clear, cool water that invites quiet contemplation from shore or peaceful exploration by canoe or kayak. Meadows dotted throughout the area attract wildlife at dawn and dusk, while the forest canopy provides shade and shelter for both campers and the diverse ecosystem that calls this place home.
Geological RegionThe Pere Marquette River has carved its 66-mile journey through Michigan's landscape over millennia, creating a diverse corridor where forest meets water in perfect harmony. This scenic river system showcases the region's geological story through its meandering path, cutting through glacial deposits and creating the varied terrain of pools, riffles, and runs that make it one of Michigan's premier trout streams. The interplay between forested slopes, open meadows, and the ever-present river creates distinct microclimates and habitats that support an impressive array of flora and fauna throughout this protected scenic corridor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information provided about accessibility options.
Sites SizeSize of campsites is unspecified.
Sites PrivacyNo details about campsite privacy, such as seclusion or clustering, are provided.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo recommendations on specific sites provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are highlighted.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit information provided on guest limits.
Groups
No group site information is provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNo detailed layout information provided.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 - October 31
Reservation PlatformsNo information on reservation platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided about walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyNo information available.
Activities you can enjoy
Fishing and non-motorized boating are the main activities available at Elk Canoe Campground, which is located along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River. Hunting may also be an option in designated areas.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, especially due to the river's proximity. The area is described as a 'very popular fishing area.'Boating
Canoeing is a major activity, with canoe rentals available nearby in Baldwin from 'Baldwin Canoe Rental' and 'Ivan's Canoe Rental.'Winter Activities
No details about winter activities are provided.Water Sports
Canoeing is supported, and rental services are available, making it a key water sport here.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No information on fire policies provided.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water available; visitors must prepare appropriately. No explicit mention of wildlife or terrain hazards.
Active alertsNo active alerts or advisories are mentioned.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.6 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
Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station and District, 650 North Michigan Ave., Baldwin, MI 49304; Phone: (231) 745-4631; Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend is mentioned for watercraft permit requirements but peak season pricing details are absent.
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Pere Marquette River, offering direct access for paddling and fishing.
Common complaintsNo specific complaints provided in user reviews.
HostNo information on campground hosts.
Campground Map
650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304
Driving directionsFrom Upper Branch Bridge - Travel approximately 1 mile downstream.
The site is accessible via Upper Branch Bridge, approximately 1 mile downstream. No additional details about road type or seasonal challenges are provided.Nearby places
Baldwin (Distance unknown, travel time unknown)
Nearby supplies
Canoe Rentals available at Baldwin Canoe Rental and Ivan's Canoe Rental. No grocery or fuel locations are mentioned.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Elk Canoe Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's rustic nature and popularity among those seeking a primitive camping experience. Fishing and canoeing opportunities are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's 'rustic camping' atmosphere and scenic riverside location are appreciated. Canoe and fishing enthusiasts find the site appealing.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints are mentioned in the user reviews provided.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
No user-provided tips or recommendations are available.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground operates only from May 1 to October 31, with its popularity likely peaking in warmer months when fishing and canoeing are most accessible.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
John Mihotz: 'Great place if you love rustic camping. Heading there soon myself.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No reviews specific to certain campsites or areas within the campground are available.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user feedback is available about the accessibility features of the campground.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no information available about pets or pet policies.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025