Van Riper State Park is located 35 miles west of Marquette off of U.S. 41. This 1,100-acre park is home to 1.5 miles of waterfront on both Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.
The park is home to a designated swim beach, a bicycle pump track, an accessible playground, trails, picnic areas, a paved trail to historic Champion and more. The park is popular for its buoyed swim area that features a fine sandy shoreline and moderate water temperatures - a sometimes pleasant change from Lake Superior temperatures.
Evidence of early mining ventures of almost a century ago can be seen along several miles of trails that wander through the hills on the north side of the highway. Open pit mines are still operating in the general area and the Iron Industry Museum located in Negaunee is well worth a visit.
Blueberry Ridge Pathway, located just 35 miles away in Marquette, is one of the Upper Peninsula's most popular trails for cross-country skiing and hiking.
The beach house is in the day-use area on Lake Michigamme and includes modern restrooms, changing rooms and a laundry facility.
There is an accessible boat launch on Lake Michigamme.
There's an accessible playground, located near the swim beach, that features swings, slides, bridges, a net and other interactive features. It all sits on a rubberized surface that makes access easier for those of all mobility levels. There are also two other small playgrounds in the day-use area near the modern campground.
A paved trail parallels U.S. 41 between the park and historic Champion. In addition, there are two bicycle pump tracks (looped sequence of rollers and berms designed to maximize momentum, so you can ride with minimal pedaling) located in the day-use area.
Fishing is a popular activity on Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.
Hunting is allowed in the state park; however, you should call this park directly to inquire about any special rules, concerns or considerations.
Metal detecting is allowed in certain park areas. Please consult the park map for designated locations and review applicable regulations. Only registered campers can metal detect in campgrounds.
Seasonal naturalists offer nature-based programming at the park during the summer and/or fall. Check the park's explorer program calendar for dates, locations and topics.
Paddling is a popular activity on Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.
Pets are welcome throughout the park, except at the swim beach. . Pets must always be on a 6-foot leash and under an owner's immediate control. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles.
The Peshekee River rustic cabin and mini cabin #2 allow pets for an additional $10 per night per pet. Up to two dogs or cats are welcome
The picnic area is in the day-use area and includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.
There is a picnic shelter located between the designated swim beach and the modern campground that includes picnic tables, charcoal grills and electrical service (reservations only). There is a fireplace (firewood is not included). Shelter reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.
The park's sanitation station is located near the entrance of the modern campground. There is potable water available and two lanes.
Snowmobiling: Snowmobile Trail No. 8 goes through park property. Snowmobiles are prohibited on park trails.
A buoyed swim area is in the park's day-use area.
The park is situated on 1.5 miles waterfront along Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.
The modern campground is divided into two loops, and many sites have views of Lake Michigamme. The sites are smaller in size and are mostly shaded. The campground is considered family-friendly by visitors.
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The rustic campground has many sites set in the woods near the modern campground. The sites are a mix of larger, secluded sites and the others are more open and sunny.
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The Peshekee River rustic cabin, located on the banks of the Peshekee River, is available year-round. The cabin sleeps up to six guests and is outfitted with bunk beds, a table and four chairs, a small kitchen counter and cabinets, and a woodstove for heat (wood provided for heating Sept. 15-June 1). There is no electricity or water. There is a picnic table, charcoal grill and fire ring (wood not provided) outdoors. There is a vault toilet and handpump for water located nearby.
The cabin is pet friendly. There is an additional fee of $10 per night/pet/cabin. Up to two pets (cats and dogs only) are allowed.
You must bring your own linens and cookware.
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There are two mini cabins (each sleeps four) located in the modern campground. They are each outfitted with a bunk bed, full-size futon, electrical outlets, mini refrigerator, microwave, electric fireplace and table and chairs. There is a picnic table, fire ring, awning and deck area outdoors.
You must bring your own linens and cookware.
Mini Cabin #2 is pet friendly. There is an additional fee of $10 per night/pet/cabin. Up to two pets (cats and dogs only) are allowed.
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The Cully Gage camper cabin is located on the shores of Lake Michigamme. This three-room cabin sleeps up to six guests. There is a bunk bed (sleeps two) and dresser in each bedroom and a futon that sleeps two in the main living area. The interior boasts hardwood floors, electric heat and a ceiling fan. There is a dining table and chairs, futon, mini refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker. There is picnic table, log swing, charcoal grill and fire ring (wood not provided) outdoors. There is a vault restroom nearby.
You must bring your own linens and cookware.
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