Bowman Bridge

BOWMAN BRIDGE

Part of Huron-Manistee National Forests

Overview

Bowman Bridge Campground is perfect for true nature immersion. Campers come here for easy access to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River and for the delightful views of the great outdoors.

Facilities

Campsites are in a wooded setting, but due to a tornado that passed through in 2005, tall trees and shade are less dense than in neighboring campgrounds.

The campground has a single loop 16 paved family campsites. There are also 4 walk-in family campsites and 4 tent-only group sites that can accommodate up to 20 people each.

Natural Features

The campground is situated along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, a 66-mile stretch of clear, unspoiled waters within the Huron-Manistee National Forests in Michigan. Large blocks of public land offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and hunting can be found in the surrounding area.

Recreation

The top three activities for campers at Bowman Bridge are canoeing, fishing and hiking. Anglers cast for brown trout, salmon, steelhead and rainbow trout.

Watercraft rentals are available at two nearby liveries in Baldwin. A permit is required to float the river from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Monday of Labor Day weekend. Watercraft hours during the permit season are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hikers can head up the campground's connector trail to the North Country National Scenic Trail. This "north country" trail weaves through many scenic, historic and cultural areas across seven states, measuring 4,600 miles end-to-end.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors enjoy exploring the extent of the Pere Marquette National Scenic River. Other nearby attractions include the Bowman Lake Foot Travel Area and the historic community of Idlewild.

Important Notices

  • From the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend to the Monday of Labor Day Weekend, a special watercraft permit is required from Forks Landing to Indian Bridge Landing
  • This campground has first-come, first-serve sites
  • Limit 2 vehicles or 1 RV per campsite; A fee will be charged for additional vehicles
  • Group sites are tent camping only
  • Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.
  • Any accepted senior passes must be entered for the discount at the time of booking for single sites only. 

  • Click here to learn more about Huron-Manistee National Forests

Available Activities

  • Fishing - Fishing
  • Camping - Camping
  • Water Activities - Water Activities

Directions

From Baldwin, turn west on 7th Street, then left onto Cherry Street. Take the first right, W 52nd Street, and drive 5 miles. Look for signs into the campground.

Contact Information

Phone: 231-745-8760

MI

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery