Van Riper State Park
Van Riper State Park is a scenic Upper Peninsula park on the shores of Lake Michigamme, known for its sandy beach, clear water, and wooded campsites. Visitors come for swimming, boating, fishing, and year-round outdoor recreation in a quiet Northwoods setting.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in day-use and campground areas; must be leashed, controlled, and cleaned up after. Not allowed in buildings or swim areas.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Quiet Upper Peninsula park with scenic lake views, clean campsites, great fishing, swimming, hiking, and friendly staff. Visitors love the peaceful setting and easy access to nature.
Tips from Visitors
- Check trail conditions before hiking; some areas can be muddy.
- Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months near water.
- Reserve campsites early for peak summer and holiday weekends.
- Pack layers; weather near the lake can change quickly.
- Follow posted fishing and boating regulations at all times.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Van Riper State Park is late spring through early fall, when Lake Michigamme is warm enough for swimming and boating and the campground is fully active. Winter is also appealing for snow sports and quiet scenery.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Van Riper State Park:
- Michigamme ReservoirA large inland waterway popular for boating, fishing, and scenic shoreline views.12 miles away
- Hiawatha National ForestA vast forested recreation area offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports opportunities.18 miles away
- Marquette MountainA year-round recreation area known for skiing, mountain biking, and panoramic views near Marquette.31 miles away
Things to Do at Van Riper State Park
Camping at Van Riper State Park
Tent and RV camping with electric sites, modern restrooms, showers, fire rings, picnic tables; reservations recommended; seasonal availability.
Hiking Trails
Van Riper State Park offers easy, scenic day hiking with well-kept trails through mixed forest, wetlands, and along the shores of Lake Michigamme. Hikers often enjoy the peaceful setting, wildlife viewing, and family-friendly routes with modest elevation changes. Trails are generally short to moderate in length, making the park a good choice for relaxed walks, nature outings, and casual exploration.
Van Riper State Park Trail Loop
easyA scenic loop through mixed forest and along portions of the park’s lakeshore, offering a relaxed hike with opportunities for birdwatching and views of Lake Michigamme.
Lake Michigamme Shoreline Trail
easyA gentle shoreline walk with frequent water views, sandy stretches, and access to quiet picnic and beach areas.
North Woods Connector Trail
moderateA longer inland route through northern hardwood and pine forest, with a few rolling sections and a more secluded backcountry feel.
Big Erick’s Ridge Spur
easyA short spur trail that climbs gently to a higher overlook area, rewarding hikers with broad views of the surrounding woods and water.
Directions
From Marquette, take US-41 east to M-28, then follow M-28 west to County Road AKE in Champion. Turn north and follow signs to the park entrance on Lake Michigamme.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the camping options at Van Riper State Park?
The park offers modern and rustic camping, including sites near the lake and wooded areas. Visitors often mention clean facilities and a family-friendly campground. Reservations are recommended, especially in summer and on holiday weekends.
Is Van Riper State Park good for swimming?
Yes. The park has a sandy beach on Lake Michigamme that is popular with families. Reviews often note the water is clear and the beach is a nice place to relax, though water temperatures can be cool even in summer.
What activities can you do at Van Riper State Park?
Common activities include swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Visitors also enjoy the scenic views and quiet atmosphere, especially around the lake and trails.
Are the trails at Van Riper State Park easy to use?
Most visitors find the trails manageable and scenic, with options for casual walks and longer hikes. Trail conditions can vary by season, so some areas may be muddy or snowy. Bug spray is often recommended in warmer months.
Can you fish or boat at Van Riper State Park?
Yes. Lake Michigamme is popular for fishing and boating, and many visitors bring kayaks, canoes, or small boats. Reviews often mention peaceful water access and good opportunities for a relaxing day on the lake.
What do visitors usually say about Van Riper State Park?
Visitors often describe it as clean, quiet, and scenic, with friendly staff and a well-kept campground. Many reviews highlight the beach, lake views, and peaceful setting as reasons they would return.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
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