Sturgeon River Campground
4.5129 reviews4810 E. M28 Kenton, MI 49967
Sturgeon River 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
Camping at Sturgeon River Campground is free of charge as stated in multiple user reviews.
About this campground
Tucked away along the banks of the pristine Sturgeon River, this intimate rustic campground offers an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. Here, the modern world fades away as you settle into one of the riverside sites, where the only amenities are the essentials: a fire ring for evening gatherings and basic pit toilets. Without potable water on-site, campers embrace a back-to-basics approach while enjoying direct access to the magnificent Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness. This hidden gem draws outdoor enthusiasts who value tranquility over convenience, offering endless opportunities for riverside relaxation and backcountry exploration.
Sturgeon River Campground provides primitive camping options suited for dispersed camping enthusiasts. It is a free, first-come, first-serve campground.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer arrives with warm, golden days perfect for riverside camping, swimming in cool river pools, and long evenings around the campfire. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forest erupts in brilliant colors. Winter blankets the area in snow and ice, creating a frozen wonderland that challenges even seasoned adventurers with freezing temperatures. The campground welcomes visitors during its maintenance season from May 10 through October 31, when conditions are most favorable for camping and the full beauty of the river valley can be appreciated.
ElevationNestled within the dramatic landscape of a river gorge, the campground sits at varying elevations that follow the natural contours of the land. The terrain rises and falls with the ancient river valley, creating intimate camping spots at different levels above the water. This varied topography adds character to each campsite and provides natural privacy between neighboring camps.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering trees create a living cathedral above your campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Sturgeon River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its waters ranging from gentle pools to rushing rapids that provide a constant, soothing soundtrack. Most campsites sit mere steps from the riverbank, allowing campers to fall asleep to the water's lullaby. Ancient rock outcroppings punctuate the landscape, worn smooth by centuries of flowing water, while the dense forest harbors wildlife and creates a sense of profound seclusion. This is a place where morning mist rises from the river, eagles soar overhead, and the untamed beauty of the northwoods reveals itself at every turn.
Geological RegionSituated within the remarkable Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness of the Ottawa National Forest, the campground occupies one of the region's most dramatic geological features. The river has carved its path through ancient bedrock over millennia, creating a rugged gorge surrounded by pristine wilderness. This heavily forested landscape represents the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula wilderness, where the forces of water and time have sculpted a terrain of stunning natural beauty. The rustic character of the area preserves the wild essence of this geological wonder, allowing visitors to experience the landscape much as it has existed for thousands of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessible campsites are available. The campground is rustic, and terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, allowing for easy tent pitching. Soil is noted to be 'nice with no rocks.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites is described as fair, with most sites close to the river. Some users appreciated the seclusion, while others noted a lack of significant distance between sites.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for the best experience. Site #7 is particularly recommended for its view and accessibility to the river.
Best CampsitesSite #7 is highlighted as the best site due to its proximity to the river and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites at the campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 9 sites, most of which are located near the river. Sites are relatively private but not completely isolated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen all year, but maintenance occurs between May 10 and October 31.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; no reservation system is in place.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up/first-come, first-served. The campground tends to fill by Friday evening during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as the sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can enjoy various outdoor activities at Sturgeon River Campground, particularly fishing and hiking. The nearby Sturgeon River provides opportunities for non-motorized boating, and there are several hiking trails accessible from the campsite, including the Sidnaw Creek Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Hiking
Numerous hiking opportunities are available, including the Sidnaw Creek Trail (7.5 miles long, intermediate to difficult) and the North Country National Scenic Trail, which traverses through rugged terrain and offers scenic river views.Fishing
The Sturgeon River is popular for fishing, with species such as brown trout and steelhead. Fishing methods include bank, wade, or float fishing. However, there are no fishing platforms or cleaning stations available.Boating
Non-motorized boating is possible on the Sturgeon River, which features a mix of rapids from Class I to Class IV. The best conditions are during high-flow periods between April 15 and June 1. Multiple access points are available.Wildlife viewing
The campground is adjacent to the Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness offering opportunities to observe local wildlife.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round but not maintained between November and April, limiting winter accessibility.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular on the Sturgeon River, especially during high-flow seasons.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitoes, horse flies, and treacherous river conditions during low flow periods. The area is also frequented by bear hunters in the late fall, which may disrupt the peaceful environment.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.5 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.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Kenton Ranger District Office is the closest official emergency service provider, located at 4810 E. M28 Kenton, MI 49967, about 10 miles from the campground. Phone: 906-852-3500.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May to October due to maintenance and favorable weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available; visitors must pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Sturgeon River, which offers opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include mosquitoes, lack of privacy between sites, and disturbances such as fireworks and generators during peak times.
Campground Map
4810 E. M28 Kenton, MI 49967
Driving directionsFrom Sidnaw travel east on M-28 for 1/4 mile, turn left onto FR 2200 and travel 5 miles; the campground will be on the left.
Access is via well-maintained gravel roads that are suitable for motorcycles. The route is relatively easy to navigate, but the road is described as steep in one user review.Nearby places
Sidnaw, MI - approximately 5 miles / Kenton, MI - approximately 10 miles
Nearby supplies
Sidnaw, MI offers basic supplies and a breakfast spot. Watton, MI, located nearby, has a larger grocery store and a gas station.
Camper Reviews
4.5
29 reviews
Sturgeon River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sturgeon River Campground is consistently appreciated for its peaceful, secluded atmosphere and proximity to nature. The rustic setup and riverside location are highlights of many reviews, while the lack of potable water and occasional bugs were noted as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the clean pit toilets, spacious sites, easy access to hiking trails and fishing areas, and the beautiful natural surroundings. Several reviews mentioned the well-maintained gravel road...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water, limited privacy between sites, bugs (mosquitoes and gnats), and occasional disturbances from other campers (e.g., generator noise or fireworks).
Based on 29 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing mosquito repellent, all necessary supplies (especially drinking water), and arriving early to secure a spot. The best site mentioned is #7, located near the river.
Based on 29 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and fall are popular seasons for camping due to favorable weather and accessible hiking trails. Late fall may be less appealing due to bear hunters in the area.
Based on 29 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bring your mosquito repellent." - Andy Hall; "#7 is the one you want if you can get it." - Otto Yermyne; "The bathrooms are just simple pit toilets but very clean." - Sayer Dolata; "If you like a...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 received specific praise for its proximity to the river. Other sites are also riverside, allowing campers to enjoy the sounds of flowing water.
Based on 29 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility features. The campground lacks ADA-compliant facilities.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one user mentioned bringing their dog for a weekend; however, no specific amenities for pets are noted.
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025