Forks State Forest Campground

Star4.44
57 reviews
Forks State Forest Campground
Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

886 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Michigan DNR site

Official Website
Get Directions
Forks State Forest Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Nightly fee: contact the park.
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

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Michigan
Provider
(248) 685-2433
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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 57 reviews

48 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleansites

Some mention

small

"Reviewers consistently describe Forks as a small (8–9 sites), very scenic and peaceful rustic campground on the Boardman River with excellent paddling and fishing access; most reviews are positive and highlight the river setting."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Forks State Forest Campground

Forks State Forest Campground

44.6734, -85.4021

Driving directionsLocated on the Boardman River in Grand Traverse County, about 7 miles south of Williamsburg via Williamsburg, Supply and Brown Bridge roads.
Accessible via Williamsburg, Supply and Brown Bridge roads; reach the site by driving south from Williamsburg.
Nearby places
Williamsburg — ~7 miles
Traverse City — driving distance not specified
Nearby supplies
Traverse City / South Boardman area (supplies and fuel)

Best Time to Camp at Forks State Forest Campground

Northern Michigan's charm comes with its characteristic weather personality—pack for adventure and be ready for anything. Summer and fall bring warm days that can shift quickly, so layers are your friend, along with reliable rain gear for those passing showers. Don't forget insect repellent during the warmer months, when mosquitoes and other bugs come out to enjoy the riverside habitat as much as you will. A little preparation ensures you'll stay comfortable while exploring this beautiful corner of the state.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer offers swimming, paddling, fishing and warm days—peak season for river activities.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall likely excellent for scenery and solitude; leaf color and cooler paddling/fishing weather.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring offers paddling and fishing but weather can be variable; conditions dependent on runoff.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Northern Michigan winters are harsh; no winter services or activities are described.

Planning Tips

    About Forks State Forest Campground

    Escape to Forks State Forest Campground, a hidden gem tucked along the pristine Boardman River in Grand Traverse County. This intimate, rustic retreat offers just a handful of sites managed by Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park—perfect for campers seeking peaceful riverside solitude away from the crowds and modern conveniences.
    A small, rustic riverside state forest campground best suited to tent and primitive camping; many sites are on or above the riverbank.
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    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    Riverside, primitive camping focused on paddling, fishing, swimming and wildlife viewing along the Boardman River; informal hiking and access to state forest lands (including hunting on adjacent state land) are available.
    HikingInformal hiking and river-corridor exploration near the Brown Bridge/Boardman River area.
    FishingTrout fishing is reported on the Boardman River adjacent to the campground.
    SwimmingRiver access for swimming and wading; reviewers mention swimming and dogs swimming from sites.
    Boating
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsRiver-related hazards including high water and steep/uneven paths to the water; insects (mosquitoes) in warm months; limited or spotty cell coverage. Standard wildlife awareness and proper food storage are advised (area supports typical northern Michigan mammals).

    Weather at Forks State Forest Campground

    Reviews

    4.4
    57 reviews
    Recommended
    Recommended
    Forks State Forest Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviewers consistently describe Forks as a small (8–9 sites), very scenic and peaceful rustic campground on the Boardman River with excellent paddling and fishing access; most reviews are positive and highlight the river setting.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 57 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Beautiful, clear Boardman River and riverside sites; peaceful and uncrowded due to small site count; good access for canoeing/kayaking and trout fishing; clean sites with fire rings.
    Based on 57 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Arrive early (first-come, first-served) to secure a riverside site; be self-sufficient (bring supplies, water containers, insect repellent); reviewers note outhouses and a hand water pump on site.
    Based on 57 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    "Small, quaint, with just a few campsites... set up tent right next to river. Awesome view."; "Great place to boondock on the river."; "Peaceful on weekdays.."; "No power or sewerage. Outhouses are...
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    Based on 57 reviews

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    Last updated February 2, 2026
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