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Wells
Overview
J.W. Wells State Park offers a serene and historic escape on the beautiful shores of Green Bay in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Established in 1925, this 678-acre park is renowned for its historic stone buildings and structures originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It provides a peaceful setting for travelers looking to enjoy the natural splendor of the Great Lakes without the noise found at larger commercial resorts. The park perfectly balances rugged beauty with classic camping comforts for a memorable outdoor experience.
Location & Surroundings
Nestled directly along the Lake Michigan shoreline, the park is located roughly 30 miles south of Escanaba near the small community of Cedar River. The landscape is characterized by its lush, old-growth forests and three miles of stunning waterfront access. The surrounding area is famous for its scenic coastal drives and quiet atmosphere, making it a premier destination for travelers who appreciate the untouched charm and tranquility of the Upper Peninsula’s southern coastline.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features 150 spacious sites, many of which are equipped with electrical hookups to accommodate various RV sizes. Modern restrooms and hot showers are centrally located, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Visitors have direct access to a designated swimming beach, a convenient boat launch for motorized craft, and seven miles of well-marked hiking trails. These trails, including the popular Cedars Trail, wind through ancient forests and offer glimpses of local wildlife throughout the seasons.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find a wealth of activities, from fishing for walleye and salmon to paddling along the quiet coastal waters of the bay. A short drive allows visitors to explore the historic Cedar River Bridge or visit the nearby DeYoung Family Zoo for a family-friendly excursion. During the winter months, the park remains a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a unique perspective of the frozen bay and snow-dusted cedar forests.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal fit for nature-loving families and RVers seeking a rustic, tranquil retreat rather than a busy urban resort. Its historic character and focus on outdoor recreation make it perfect for those who enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and waterfront activities. It is a must-visit for Great Lakes explorers looking for an authentic Upper Peninsula experience that combines rich Michigan history with stunning shoreline views and quiet, star-filled nights.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Dmin1990
Great campground. Stayed twice the amenities are really well. Also a gas station convenience store just down the road if you need anything. Campground offers awesome views of the lake as well!
H T
Beach and the views!!! Our first trip here and it’s on the top 3 best state parks we’ve been to! Michigan always WINS when it comes to beautiful scenery and cleanliness! So many families and pups! Everyone was super friendly, the staff and hosts were welcoming. Clean bathrooms and showers. Brand new playground. They had a Yooper light tour in the evening! The beach! AMAZING! And it was a huge bonus that we may have booked the best site there. This is site 14
Krissy A
Don and Jen are excellent hosts. Very friendly. The camps are very close to the water and have long beaches to hike. If you have a uv flashlight bring it! You might find a yooperlight.
RealtorDave
What a fantastic state park… We had a site right on the water and it was last minute. Beautiful weather, beautiful views,wonderful walking and pot shops nearby as well.
Cortney W
Beautiful campground! We were right on the water and we had a great view of the lake. There was a nice walking trail that went along the lake. There is a really nice playground. Really nice facilities. Very dog friendly, too. Update as of 6.29.25-people get really upset when you ask them not to walk through your campsite. Specifically, site 16 that butts up against the creek. The map shows that there is no trail there and the site goes all the way to the creek. "Tribal knowledge" of this campground says that the site ends at the tree line and the foot path, that is clearly man-made from people walking by the creek to create a shortcut in the loop, is a real trail and we need to shut up and let people cut through there. Not a great way to end what was a wonderful Saturday here.