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Michigan
12

Michigan State Parks

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USA Parks
Michigan
Upper Peninsula Region
Van Riper State Park
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VAN RIPER STATE PARK
VAN RIPER STATE PARK
851 County Road AKE
Champion, Michigan   49814
(lat:46.518 lon:-87.9897) map location

Phone: 906-339-4461
Reservations: 800-447-2757
Van Riper State Park contains one-half mile of frontage on Lake Michigamme with a fine sandy beach. There is also one and one-half miles of frontage on the Peshekee River. A slow drive through the north of the park may reward you with the sight of a majestic moose!
Nature of the Area
In 1985 and 1987, 59 moose were transplanted from Algonquin National Park in Ontario, Canada, to a release site six miles north of the park. The herd has grown considerably with the birth of new calves each year. A slow drive through the north of the park may reward you with the sight of one of these majestic animals. An information center within the park has pictures and information on the transplant and the story of Moose Life I and II told on video.
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Camping
Van Riper-Modern(800) 447-2757 147 site(s)Campsites with 50 amp Service, Electrical Service, Mini Cabin, Modern Restrooms, Playground

Van Riper-Rustic(800) 447-2757 40 site(s)Rustic Site, Vault Toilet

Van Riper-Rustic Cabin(800) 447-2757 Cabins & Lodges, Vault Toilet
Swimming
1. Van Riper State Park offers a sandy beach on the shore of Lake Michigamme for swimming.
2. The park's Peshekee River is also suitable for swimming, but less popular than the lake.
3. Lifeguards are not provided at either location; visitors swim at their own risk.
4. Swimming areas have picnic tables and grills nearby for post-swim meals or snacks.
5. Restrooms and changing facilities are conveniently located near both designated swimming spots in the park.

Beaches
One-half mile of sandy beach located on the east end of Lake Michigamme.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a boat launch available, providing access to the 1,200-acre Peshekee Lake where you can enjoy fishing or leisurely exploration on water. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities in this area due to its calm waters and scenic surroundings. Motorized boats are allowed but must adhere to certain speed limits set by the park authorities.
Fishing
Lake Michigamme is one of the top walleye lakes in the Upper Peninsula and also produces fine catches of bass, perch, trout, northern pike and muskellunge. Improved woods roads also provide access to many streams, lakes and the great forest which lies to the north of the park.


Location
Van Riper State Park is located near Ishpeming
Nearby Parks

Picnicking
1. Van Riper State Park offers numerous picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the park.
2. There are two pavilions available for rent, perfect for larger gatherings or events.
3. The beach area provides a picturesque spot to enjoy your meal outdoors with lake views.
4. Picnic areas near playgrounds make it easy to keep an eye on children while enjoying lunch outside.
5. You can also have picnics at various scenic spots along hiking trails within the park.

Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore a 1.5-mile paved trail, perfect for leisurely rides and family outings.

For the more adventurous, there's an unpaved three-mile loop that offers challenging terrain amidst beautiful scenery.

However, be aware of potential hazards such as uneven surfaces or sudden changes in elevation on this route.

Also remember to respect wildlife habitats while biking; stick to designated trails only.

Always wear appropriate safety gear including helmets when cycling within park boundaries.

Check local weather conditions before setting out since certain paths may become impassable after heavy rainfalls.
Trails
Van Riper-Main TrailTrail Length: 0.50 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

Van Riper-Miners LoopTrail Length: 0.25 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

Van Riper-Old Wagon Road TrailTrail Length: 1.50 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking

Van Riper-Overlook TrailTrail Length: 1.00 (Miles)Hiking

Van Riper-River TrailTrail Length: 1.50 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Hiking
Birding
Located in Michigan, the park offers birding opportunities with diverse species like warblers and waterfowl. The Peshekee River is a hotspot for spotting bald eagles and ospreys. Birdwatchers can also explore various trails that traverse through different habitats attracting unique birds.
Area Attractions
Van Riper is located in an area rich in scenic, historic and recreational sites. It is only a few miles east of the park where iron ore was first discovered in the Lake Superior region in 1845. Evidence of early mining ventures of almost a century ago can be seen along several miles of good foot trails that wander through the hills on the north side of the highway. A fine scenic overlook of Lake Michigamme is found along these trails. Open pit mines are still operating in the general area and the Iron Industry Museum located in Negaunee is well worth a visit.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
August 6
park review stars; one to five we camp here every year. The only complaint we have is when it rains the lots get flooded! Some of them are totally under water!! There must be a solution for this?
May 4 by bigbob2424
park review stars; one to five
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Area Campgrounds
Country Village RV Park
1200 Country Lane
Ishpeming, MI
906-486-0300
Nearby Hotels
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