About PETERSON BRIDGE
Overview Peterson Bridge Campground is located on the Pine River in Michigan’s Manistee National Forest. The location on the river makes it ideal for canoeists and those looking to experience the adventure of this swift moving river.Recreation With access to the river so close, floating the Pine River is a popular activity at Peterson Bridge. Several locations near the campground offer canoe rentals. Supporting outstanding trout fishing, the Pine River is also a “Blue Ribbon” cold-water fishery. For State Fishing Regulations consult the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website, website http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/.Facilities The facility offers several tent sites which are walk-in only. Those tent sites on the river bank can also be accessed from the river. In addition, the facility offers RV sites with many of the sites at this facility offering shade and seclusion. Natural Features The Pine River is well known as one of the most outstanding canoeing and trout fishing rivers in the Midwest. The river gradient is 7% and, depending upon the season, offers the fasted average flow of any river in lower Michigan. The lower 26 miles of the Pine River have been designated a National Wild and Scenic River. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.
How to Get There
Please note: Peterson Bridge Campground is located on Highway 3T at Pine River Bridge, South of Highway 55. From Baldwin, MI: Take State Rt. 37 north about 21 miles to campground sign (just before Pine River bridge). Turn right into campground. From the north: follow M-37 south 1.5 miles from its junction with M-55. Turn left into the area after crossing the bridge over the Pine River. From the south: follow M-37 north 21.5 miles from Baldwin. Turn right into the area prior to crossing the bridge over the Pine River.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to PETERSON BRIDGE
Heading to PETERSON BRIDGE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for PETERSON BRIDGE?
No central reservation system listed for PETERSON BRIDGE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233342) for the latest entry policy and availability.
Are pets allowed at PETERSON BRIDGE?
Pets are mentioned in this park’s information. Specific rules (leash requirements, banned areas) vary by location — verify on the official site before bringing your dog.
How do I get to PETERSON BRIDGE?
Please note: Peterson Bridge Campground is located on Highway 3T at Pine River Bridge, South of Highway 55. From Baldwin, MI: Take State Rt. 37 north about 21 miles to campground sign (just before Pine River bridge). Turn right into campground. From the north: follow M-37 south 1.5 miles from its junction with M-55. Turn left into the area after crossing the bridge over the Pine River. From the so…
How do I contact PETERSON BRIDGE?
You can reach the park at email: Help.Huron.Manistee@AmericanLL.com.
References & Official Resources
