Carp River Campground

4.36

113 reviews

N. 4664 Mackanac Trail, St. Ignace, MI 49781, USA

Quick Facts

666 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Hiawatha National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

666 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Hiawatha National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Carp River Campground

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly fee for standard non-electric sites during both peak and first-come-first-served seasons is $24. Additional fees apply for modifications...

Standard Site Fee$24.00

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

906-203-9872

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 113 reviews

67 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanspaciouswell-maintained

"Carp River Campground is frequently visited and receives generally positive reviews. Highlights include its cleanliness, spacious sites, and quiet environment. However, complaints include generator noise, steep river access, and occasional host issues."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

N. 4664 Mackanac Trail, St. Ignace, MI 49781, USA

Carp River Campground

N. 4664 Mackanac Trail, St. Ignace, MI 49781, USA

Driving directionsFrom the intersection of US-2 and I-75, drive north on I-75 to exit 352. Turn right on County Road 123, then turn left on Mackinac Trail/Highway 63. Drive north approximately five miles, turn left onto FR 3445 and drive a quarter mile to the campground.

The campground is accessible via paved roads including major highways (US-2 and I-75), but the final quarter-mile involves turning onto a forest road (FR 3445). Roads are generally well-maintained and suitable for passenger vehicles.

Nearby places

St. Ignace (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

Sault Ste. Marie (less than 1 hour)

Mackinaw City (approximately 15 minutes via Mackinac Bridge).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in St. Ignace, which is approximately 8 miles away. Additional supplies can be found in nearby population centers such as Mackinaw City or Sault Ste. Marie.

Best Time to Camp at Carp River Campground

Summer transforms the campground into a sun-dappled paradise, where warm, dry days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings. The peak camping season brings moderate temperatures that make hiking, fishing, and exploring thoroughly enjoyable. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in brilliant colors before winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow. While winter's freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall make the campground inaccessible for traditional camping, the dramatic seasonal transformation showcases nature's ever-changing beauty.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season; warm days, cool nights and many positive summer reviews noted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open into mid-September; likely good early-fall foliage but limited season window.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 23; late-spring conditions fine but season start is late, with mosquitoes/pollen noted.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is closed outside the May–Sept season; winter camping not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23 to September 14 during the 2025 and 2026 seasons.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season begins May 23, 2025, with reservations available from June 25, 2025, to September 14, 2025.

About Carp River Campground

Nestled along the pristine waters of the Carp Wild and Scenic River, this hidden gem in Michigan's Upper Peninsula beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. Here, spacious wooded sites envelope you in nature's embrace, where towering trees provide a natural canopy overhead. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes equipped with essential comforts—sturdy picnic tables for lakeside meals, fire rings for evening storytelling, and access to clean drinking water and well-maintained vault toilets. This is camping as it should be: rustic enough to disconnect from the modern world, yet comfortable enough to truly relax and rejuvenate.

Carp River Campground offers standard non-electric sites suitable for tent and RV camping. Group and primitive camping are not specified.

Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the storied Hiawatha National Forest, where centuries of maritime heritage and wilderness tradition converge. Just a short journey away, the magnificent Grand Island National Recreation Area rises from Lake Superior's waters, telling tales of Native American history and early European exploration. The nearby Whitefish Scenic Byway winds through landscapes that have inspired generations of adventurers, artists, and nature lovers. This isn't just a campground—it's your gateway to experiencing Michigan's rich tapestry of natural and cultural treasures.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms the campground into a sun-dappled paradise, where warm, dry days invite endless outdoor adventures and cool evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings. The peak camping season brings moderate temperatures that make hiking, fishing, and exploring thoroughly enjoyable. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in brilliant colors before winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow. While winter's freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall make the campground inaccessible for traditional camping, the dramatic seasonal transformation showcases nature's ever-changing beauty.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain part of the campground's mystery, the gently rolling terrain creates an ideal setting for comfortable camping and easy exploration of the surrounding wilderness.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of the Carp River, where native trout dart through crystal-clear waters beneath overhanging branches. The encompassing Hiawatha National Forest creates a living cathedral of stately hardwoods interspersed with aromatic jackpine and towering conifers. This peaceful sanctuary in Michigan's wild Upper Peninsula offers an escape from civilization's clamor, where the loudest sounds are birdsong at dawn and the whisper of wind through ancient trees. Every vista reveals nature's artistry, from sun-filtered forest paths to the river's meandering course through untouched wilderness.

Geological RegionPerched in the heart of Michigan's legendary Upper Peninsula, the campground sits within a geological wonderland where three Great Lakes—Superior, Huron, and Michigan—have sculpted dramatic shorelines over millennia. This diverse landscape encompasses everything from windswept beaches to mysterious inland wetlands, from dense pine forests to groves of hardy hardwoods. The unique ecological tapestry creates countless microenvironments, each supporting its own community of flora and fauna. It's a region where ancient geological forces have crafted a playground for modern adventurers, offering endless opportunities for discovery and wonder.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 consecutive nights during a single visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Information not explicitly provided.

Groups

Group sites are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or reviews.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features dispersed sites with substantial spacing for privacy. The layout includes shaded areas, loops, and proximity to the river.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including its website, mobile app, and contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during specific periods such as May 14-May 21, 2026, when sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Fill patterns during peak season may vary.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to midnight the day before the reserved date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus the forfeiture of the first night's fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited; terrain near the river can be steep and challenging to navigate for some visitors, as noted by reviewers.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with substantial buffer zones between campsites. User reviews highlight their suitability for both tents and larger RVs.

PrivacyMost sites are reported as private due to ample spacing and wooded surroundings, offering a secluded camping environment.

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites near the river for scenic views but be mindful of access challenges due to steep banks. Sites away from generators may provide a quieter experience.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Carp River Campground provides a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The adjacent Carp River is popular for fishing, with species such as brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Some sites offer direct river access, but terrain can be steep in places, making access challenging. Hiking trails are present but not well-marked or prominent, with some reviewers noting the lack of unique trailheads. Kayaking and canoeing are seasonal activities, with water levels varying. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, given the wooded surroundings.

HikingHiking opportunities are available, but trails are not distinctly marked from the campground. A reviewer noted, "There aren't any trailheads or unique features to make your stay something to write home about."

FishingFishing in Carp River is a popular activity, featuring brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Fly fishing is a noted attraction along old logging roads.

SwimmingSwimming in Carp River is possible, although the water can be cold. A user review mentions, "We swam in Carp River (cold but nice)."

BoatingKayaking and canoeing are popular, though water levels may vary seasonally. One reviewer stated, "Carp river was too shallow at spots to kayak, but it was July and we knew the water would be low."

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is highlighted by the wooded surroundings, offering rich opportunities to observe local fauna.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include poison ivy near the river bay, steep river banks making access challenging, and mosquitoes during summer months. Wildlife such as bears may be present; campers are advised to store food securely.

Fire PolicyCampfires are restricted to designated fire rings, and no outside firewood is allowed to prevent invasive pests.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced starting at 10 PM.

Emergency ServicesSt. Ignace provides emergency services such as hospitals, police stations, and fire departments. Nearest hospital is Mackinac Straits Health System in St. Ignace.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection facilities are available, although recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the Carp River. While swimming and kayaking are possible, steep banks may challenge accessibility.

Camp HostHosts maintain the campground, clean the facilities, and provide firewood for sale. Reviews often praise their friendliness and diligence.

Weather at Carp River Campground

Reviews

4.4

113 reviews

Recommended

Carp River Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Carp River Campground is frequently visited and receives generally positive reviews. Highlights include its cleanliness, spacious sites, and quiet environment. However, complaints include generator noise, steep river access, and occasional host issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 113 reviews

What Campers Love

Common praises include the spacious and private campsites, clean vault toilets, helpful hosts, and well-maintained campground. "We found the campground beautifully maintained and quiet," stated one...

Based on 113 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised include excessive generator noise, tough terrain near the river, lack of trailheads, and some complaints about host behavior. One reviewer mentioned, "Better if they banned generators."...

Based on 113 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving after 2 p.m. to avoid paying for an extra day and bringing batteries or generators for power. Fly fishing and kayaking are mentioned as enjoyable activities, though water...

Based on 113 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular due to favorable weather, but mosquitoes and pollen can be problematic. Winter camping isn't discussed.

Based on 113 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Very clean (especially the restrooms) with great campsites," noted Sarah Ann. "Be warned, there is NO ELECTRIC here," cautioned Curt B.

Based on 113 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 009 received mixed feedback, with one reviewer praising its privacy and cleanliness while another commented on steep river access. Site 006 was highlighted for proximity to fly fishing spots and...

Based on 113 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility near the river is problematic due to steep terrain, particularly for families with kids.

Based on 113 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly in user reviews. However, one camper mentioned, "Potentially poison ivy near the river bay but not certain."

Based on 113 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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