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Hiawatha/Carp River
Overview
The Carp River Campground offers a serene escape within the Hiawatha National Forest, just a short drive north of the Mackinac Bridge. This destination provides a quintessential Upper Peninsula experience, where the sounds of the rushing river replace the noise of highway traffic. It serves as an ideal basecamp for those looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Michigan’s northern wilderness while remaining close to the essential services and amenities found in nearby St. Ignace.
Location & Surroundings
Situated along the banks of the Carp River, a designated Wild and Scenic River, the campground is enveloped by a lush canopy of hardwoods and evergreens. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling terrain and diverse wildlife, offering a true sense of seclusion. Its location is conveniently positioned near the junction of I-75 and M-123, providing easy access to the scenic shorelines of Lake Huron and the northern reaches of the peninsula.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a rustic facility that prioritizes a natural camping experience over modern luxuries. Visitors will find spacious sites equipped with heavy-duty fire rings and picnic tables. While it does not offer full hookups, the park provides essential facilities for a comfortable stay in the woods. Key features include:
- Vault toilets and hand-pumped drinking water
- Direct river access via a small boat launch
- Private, wooded sites suitable for smaller RVs
The standout feature is the proximity to the water, allowing guests to launch canoes or kayaks directly from the camp area.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The campground is a premier destination for trout fishing and paddling along the winding river currents. Beyond the forest, guests are only minutes away from the Mackinac Island ferries and the historic sites of downtown St. Ignace. Popular local landmarks include:
- Castle Rock for panoramic overlook views
- Father Marquette National Memorial
- The Straits of Mackinac shoreline
Hikers can also explore various trails that weave through the national forest, offering glimpses of hidden lakes and marshes.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is best suited for travelers who prefer primitive camping and the tranquility of the great outdoors. It is an excellent choice for anglers, kayakers, and those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to crowded private RV resorts. While it accommodates smaller to mid-sized rigs, it is most popular with self-contained RVers who value privacy, nature-focused recreation, and a genuine Northwoods atmosphere.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
John Van Hare
Surprisingly few bugs for the end of July. Ideally they could build new stairs and a deck at the bottom of the hill overlooking the Carp River. The steps down at the bridge are getting overgrown and could use a good weed whacking. It’s beautiful here though, the campsites are spacious and private. Well is a simple on off handle. No pumping required. Bathrooms are clean and well kept.
makemwunder
Great campground. Quiet and no bugs. Camp host not so much. Was condescending and not welcoming at all. No place for that behavior in a campground. Hopefully he won't be there next year. Great place to camp.
Byron Tucker
If you like seclusion, quiet and being surrounded by giant pines and a placid stream, then this campground is for you. Just a few minutes away from the attractions of Mackinac Island and St Ignace, you'll be in a world apart at this campground, with plenty of space between sites. Campground host was awesome. Bugs were almost non-existent. (Aug 20th) Will definitely return for a repeat visit!
Connie Arndt
The camp host was so friendly and the campground and bathrooms were so clean and didn't smell like an out house. He definitely takes pride in his campground!
Cassidy Teeple
My husband and I camped here for two nights the first week of July. It was rustic and secluded but not too far from St Ignace and other surrounding towns. The mosquitos were absolutely terrible when we went (obviously not anyone’s fault but just an fyi). There are no showers and only outhouse bathrooms.