Van Riper State Park

Address

851 County Road AKE
Champion MI, 49814

Phone

906-339-4461
TTY/TDD711 (Michigan Relay Center)

Approximate Size

1100 (Acres)

Recreation Passport

Required

Trail Length

Trail Head

Camp Sites/Fees

This 1,100-acre park is home to 1.5 miles of waterfront on both Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.

Make a Reservation Tell Us About Your Visit

Event Information

Explorer Programs: Seasonal naturalists offer weekly nature-based nature programming Memorial Day through Labor Day. View weekly programming calendar (PDF).

More Information

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 features 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 designated swim beach that features a fine sandy shoreline and moderate water temperatures - a sometimes pleasant change from Lake Superior temperatures.

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.

Thanks to the Friends of Van Riper and Craig Lake State Parks for supporting the park.

Campgrounds

Van Riper-Cully Gage camper cabin: 800-447-2757
(1)
Van Riper-Mini Cabins: 800-447-2757
(2)
Van Riper-Modern Campground: 800-447-2757
(143)
Van Riper-Peshekee River rustic cabin: 800-447-2757
(1)
Van Riper-Peshekee River Rustic Campground: 800-447-2757
(39)

Trails

Van Riper - Main Trail: Trail Length: 0.50 (Miles)
Van Riper - Old Wagon Road Trail: Trail Length: 1.50 (Miles)
Van Riper - Overlook Trail: Trail Length: 1.50 (Miles)
Van Riper - River Trail: Trail Length: 1.50 (Miles)

About the Area

View Online Visitor's Guide

The Michigan Iron Industry Museum, located in Negaunee, overlooks the Carp River and the site of the first iron forge in the Lake Superior region.

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.

Activities (Display as List)

Biking

Biking: 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.

Cross Country Ski

Cross Country Ski

Fishing

Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity on Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.

Hiking

Hiking

Hunting

Hunting: 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

Metal Detecting: Metal detecting is recognized as a legitimate recreation activity when it is conducted in ways that do not damage natural and cultural resources in Michigan state parks nor violate applicable state statutes. This park map clearly shows where this activity is allowed to take place. Any items found must be reviewed by park staff and may be retained for further investigation. Areas located within the campground are limited to registered campers only.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking

Interpretive Programs

Interpretive Programs: Seasonal naturalists offer weekly nature-based nature programming Memorial Day through Labor Day. View weekly programming calendar (PDF).

Paddling

Paddling: Paddling is a popular activity on Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River.

Pet-Friendly Area

Pet-Friendly Area:

Pets are allowed along the entire length of the Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River with the exception of the designated 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 are pet friendly. There is an additional fee of $10 per night/pet/cabin. Up to two pets (cats and dogs only) are allowed.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling: Snowmobile Trail No. 8 goes through the park. Snowmobiles are prohibited on park trails.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing

Swimming

Swimming: A designated swim area is in the park’s day-use area.

Facilities (Display as List)

Beach House

Beach House: The beach house is in the day-use area on Lake Michigamme and includes modern restrooms, changing rooms and a laundry facility.

Boat Launch

Boat Launch: There is an accessible boat launch on Lake Michigamme.

Cabins & Lodges

Cabins & Lodges

Group Use Area

Group Use Area

Mini Cabin

Mini Cabin

Modern Restrooms

Modern Restrooms

Picnic Area

Picnic Area: The picnic area is in the day-use area and includes picnic tables and charcoal grills that are available first come, first served.

Picnic Shelter

Picnic Shelter: 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.

Playground

Playground:

There is an accessible playground, located near the designated swim beach, that features 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 swings, a slide and tether ball.

There are also two other small playgrounds in the day-use area near the modern campground.

Rustic Site

Rustic Site

Sanitation Station

Sanitation Station: The park’s sanitation station is located near the entrance of the modern campground. There is potable water available and two lanes.