Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

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Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

Quick Facts

719 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Michigan DNR site

Official Website
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Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground
No fees available
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

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Michigan
Provider
(989) 734-2543
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Campground Map

Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

45.0191, -83.5583

Driving directionsLocated 9 miles southwest of Alpena via M-32 and Indian Reserve Road; campground sits at the end of a narrow gravel and dirt road.
Accessible from M-32 and Indian Reserve Road; final approach is a narrow gravel and dirt road to the campground.
Nearby places
Alpena — 9 miles

Best Time to Camp at Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Ideal for paddling, fishing and river camping when water recreation is best.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Mature hardwoods in a state forest imply strong fall color viewing along the river.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring paddling and fishing likely; trails and river corridor accessible, though conditions vary.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Snowmobile access noted but primitive facilities and cold weather limit comfort for many.

Planning Tips

    About Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

    Escape to a hidden riverside retreat where ten intimate campsites nestle along the pristine Thunder Bay River. This rustic, first-come, first-served gem offers the perfect blend of seclusion and adventure, with direct water access from every site, basic amenities including hand-pump water and vault toilets, and a convenient carry-in boat launch for paddlers.
    Small, rustic/primitive riverside campground with 10 tent and small-trailer sites; first-come, first-served with a 15-day maximum stay and no reservations.
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    Stay Limit
    15-day maximum stay

    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    Riverfront camping with direct water access at every campsite and an undeveloped carry-in boat launch. Recreational opportunities include fishing and paddling on the Thunder Bay River, a 1.5-mile Wah‑Wah‑Tas‑See Pathway access, and an ORV/snowmobile trailhead adjacent to the campground.
    HikingThe 1.5-mile Wah‑Wah‑Tas‑See Pathway is accessible from the campground; additional walking/hiking on nearby forest roads and paths.
    FishingFishing on the Thunder Bay River for pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, and various panfish.
    Boating
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsRiver hazards including high-water conditions (campers advised to be mindful of high-water safety). Rustic, forested location may have mosquitoes and other insects in warm months. Narrow gravel/dirt access road may be challenging for large rigs.

    Weather at Thunder Bay River State Forest Campground

    Reviews

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    Last updated February 2, 2026
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