Pine River Campground
4.3013 reviewsSouth Branch Pine River, Glennie, MI
Pine River Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / 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 fee is $10 per night for all sites.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Michigan's north woods, Pine River Campground offers an authentic escape where time slows down and nature takes center stage. This intimate, rustic retreat comes alive during fishing season when anglers cast their lines into pristine waters, but its charm extends far beyond the riverbank. History whispers through the trees here, where a beautifully preserved Civilian Conservation Corps picnic shelter from the mid-1940s stands as a testament to America's conservation legacy. Whether you're stalking elusive trout at dawn, foraging for wild mushrooms in the dappled forest light, or filling your basket with sun-warmed berries, this peaceful sanctuary rewards those who seek simple pleasures and genuine wilderness experiences.
Pine River Campground caters to primitive camping enthusiasts seeking a rustic and remote experience. It accommodates a small number of campers with 11 combined sites, suitable for tents and small RVs without hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Pine River Campground, where the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in a meticulously crafted picnic shelter that has welcomed generations of visitors since the mid-1940s. This architectural gem, built by the hands of young men during America's Great Depression, stands as more than just a structure—it's a bridge to an era when conservation and community service shaped our nation's wild places. Just beyond the campground, discover remnants of a 1930s Rainbow trout hatchery, where dedicated conservationists once raised thousands of fish to stock Michigan's waters. These historical touchstones remind us that this land has long been cherished and carefully tended, creating the pristine wilderness we enjoy today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Michigan's seasons at Pine River, where each month paints the landscape in new colors. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and long, golden days perfect for pitching your tent beneath the stars. Morning mists rise from the river as temperatures hover in the comfortable 70s, creating ideal conditions for both relaxation and adventure. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a tapestry of amber and crimson, with crisp air that invigorates the senses. Late fall brings the first dustings of snow and a profound quiet that blankets the campground, marking the transition to winter's peaceful slumber. Spring's arrival is announced by the eager splash of trout and the return of songbirds to the awakening forest.
ElevationPerched at a modest 840 feet above sea level, Pine River Campground occupies a sweet spot in Michigan's topography where cool air settles into the river valley, creating an ideal microclimate for both campers and trout. This gentle elevation provides relief from summer's heat while maintaining accessibility for visitors of all ages and abilities. The subtle changes in altitude along the river create diverse habitats and picturesque rapids that add music to your camping soundtrack. Here, the elevation works its quiet magic, keeping morning mists lingering over the water and ensuring those coveted cool nights perfect for campfire stories and sound sleep.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic white and red pines tower overhead like nature's cathedral, their evergreen canopy filtering sunlight into a soft, ethereal glow that dances across the forest floor. The star of this natural theater is the South Branch Pine River, whose crystal-clear waters flow over a bed of smooth cobblestones and pristine sand, creating pools and riffles that shelter native trout. This is sacred ground for the rare Kirtland's Warbler, whose distinctive song adds to the symphony of wilderness sounds. Wander through the understory where ferns unfurl in spring, wildflowers paint splashes of color in summer meadows, and ancient trees tell their stories through weathered bark and reaching branches. Every turn of the trail reveals another postcard-perfect scene in this serene forest sanctuary.
Geological RegionPine River Campground rests within the magnificent Huron National Forest, a 438,000-acre testament to nature's resilience and beauty. This geological wonderland was sculpted by ancient glaciers that left behind sandy, well-drained soils perfect for the towering pines that give the region its character. The South Branch Pine River, fed by underground springs and surface streams, has carved its course through this landscape over millennia, creating the cool, oxygen-rich waters that make it a premier trout fishery. The forest's unique geology—a combination of glacial deposits, ancient lake beds, and river valleys—supports an incredibly diverse ecosystem where northern and southern species meet and thrive. This is quintessential Michigan north woods, where the very ground beneath your feet tells the story of ice ages, forests, and the enduring cycle of wilderness renewal.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned, and the primitive nature of the campground may pose challenges for those with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are reportedly spacious, with users commenting that they fit an RV, a truck with a trailer, and two tents. However, detailed measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer a moderate level of privacy with screening from tall pines and some trees between sites. 'The sites aren't really close together, with some trees in between for privacy,' a user noted.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are generally spacious and screened with trees for privacy. They can accommodate various setups, including RVs without hookups.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 11 sites, each with a picnic table and grill. Sites are screened by trees, offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 1 through November 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 11 sites are available on a walk-up, first-come-first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy is mentioned as reservations are not accepted.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pine River Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suited to its rustic setting. Fishing, hunting, and picnicking are popular, along with unique opportunities to gather mushrooms and berries. The Civilian Conservation Corps' historic picnic shelter adds a cultural touch. Hiking is available, though specific trails are not detailed.
Hiking
Day hikes are supported, but no detailed information about trails, difficulty, or length is provided.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with the South Branch Pine River offering excellent trout fishing. 'The river is clear with rock cobble and sand...fishing was ok for small sub-legal brookies,' one user noted.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but visitors must adhere to any seasonal fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are enforced per Huron National Forest guidelines, but specific times are not listed.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are reported to be prevalent, so precautions are recommended. The area is remote, so campers should come prepared with all necessities.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services are in Oscoda, MI, approximately 24.7 miles away. This includes hospitals and the Huron Shores Ranger Station.
Good to know
Peak season datesFishing season is a peak time for visitors.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates as 'pack it in, pack it out,' meaning campers must take their trash and recycling with them.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the South Branch Pine River, which is clear and ideal for trout fishing.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include generator noise disrupting the peaceful environment and the absence of a campground host to enforce quiet hours.
Campground Map
South Branch Pine River, Glennie, MI
Driving directionsFrom Glennie, MI, take State Rt. 65 south for 5.8 miles to Bissonette Rd. Turn left onto Bissonette Rd. and go 4 miles to campground sign (Forest Rt. 4121). Turn left onto Rt. 4121 and go 6 miles to campground.
The campground is accessed via dirt roads that are generally passable but may require caution during wet weather. Roads may be gated when the campground is closed.Nearby places
Glennie: 15.8 miles, Oscoda: 24.7 miles
Nearby supplies
The nearest location for groceries and camping supplies is in Oscoda, MI, approximately 24.7 miles away. Fuel is also available in Oscoda.
Camper Reviews
4.3
13 reviews
Pine River Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users appreciate Pine River Campground for its rustic charm, spacious campsites, and remote setting. However, some criticisms include noise issues from generators and large groups, as well as the removal of the water pump. A recurring theme is the peaceful environment disrupted by inconsiderate campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlighted the spacious and private campsites, the quiet and remote location, and the well-maintained facilities. The CCC picnic shelter and trout fishing were also well-regarded. 'A great...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include generator noise disrupting the peace, the removal of the water pump, and occasional noise from large groups late at night. Ticks were also cited as an issue by one user.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the remote location and lack of potable water. Some suggest avoiding generators to maintain the peaceful environment.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate the campground is popular during fishing season and hunting season, particularly in the fall. Memorial Day weekend and the opening of bow season are noted as busy times.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'If you like to getaway from using technology, breaking away from all the other stuff, this would be a great campground,' commented one user. 2. 'The CCC pavilion is really nice with a couple of...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites were not highlighted in reviews. However, users generally noted that all sites are spacious and provide some privacy.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility features.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews were available regarding pets.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025