Two hearted river

For Michigan residents who cherish a truly rustic and wild camping experience, the Mouth of the Two Hearted River State Forest Campground is a legendary destination in the Upper Peninsula. Situated at the beautiful confluence where the famous Two Hearted River meets the mighty Lake Superior, this campground offers a remote, picturesque escape that embodies the rugged spirit of the UP. It is the type of place where you trade modern conveniences for spectacular natural beauty—an experience coveted by anglers, paddlers, and seekers of solitude across our great state.

Managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and overseen by Tahquamenon Falls State Park, this is not a commercial campground but a State Forest Campground. This designation means it provides essential amenities while preserving the natural, unspoiled environment. The atmosphere is quiet, remote, and focused purely on outdoor recreation, making it a favorite for those who desire a back-to-basics adventure. Whether you are driving in your small trailer, paddling the river, or simply looking to set up a tent and relax by the Superior shoreline, this location promises an unforgettable Michigan outdoor memory.

Recent visitors have highlighted the phenomenal setting, often enjoying a local craft beverage by the river after a successful day of exploring, perfectly capturing the peaceful, rewarding experience this location offers. Good signage ensures the final legs of the journey are clear, and once there, the stunning scenery of the Lake Superior shore and the clear, famed river make the effort worthwhile.

The Two Hearted River Campground, officially known as the Mouth of the Two Hearted River State Forest Campground, is located deep within Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in Luce County. While the mailing address is Newberry, MI, prospective visitors should understand this is a truly remote location, about 31 miles northeast of the city.

The precise address is: 33115 Co Rd 423, Newberry, MI 49868, USA.

Accessibility is an important note for local travelers. The drive requires navigating several miles of unpaved county roads, including sections of M-123 and County Roads 500, 414, and 423. These roads are typically well-maintained enough for standard vehicles and small trailers, but they require cautious driving at lower speeds (around 30-40 mph), particularly for larger RVs. Given the remoteness, cell service is extremely limited or non-existent in this area, so campers should download maps or bring physical directions before entering the vicinity. This lack of connectivity is, for many Michigan campers, part of the appeal—a true disconnection from the digital world.

As a rustic State Forest Campground, the services provided focus on the necessities for an authentic outdoor experience. Campers should be prepared to bring most of what they need, as there is no camp store or modern hookups available on site. The management by Tahquamenon Falls State Park ensures that basic facilities are kept clean and functional.

• Campsites: The campground features 36 to 39 sites suitable for tent camping and small trailers. All sites are rustic, meaning no electrical, water, or sewer hookups are available.
• Reservations: All campsites are offered on a strict first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations are taken, meaning early arrival is highly recommended, especially during peak summer and fall fishing weekends.
• Water Access: Potable drinking water is available on-site, provided by a hand-pump well. Campers are advised to bring sufficient water for their stay or plan to purify any additional water from the river or lake.
• Sanitary Facilities: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for public use throughout the campground area.
• Site Amenities: Each rustic site is equipped with a picnic table and a steel fire ring, often including a charcoal grill grate, perfect for cooking meals over an open fire.
• Waste Disposal: Trash dumpsters are provided on site for campers to dispose of their waste properly, helping to maintain the pristine condition of the forest and shoreline.

The Two Hearted River is famed in literary and Michigan history, and the surrounding natural area offers a wealth of activities that make this location a jewel of the Upper Peninsula. Its unique position at the river's mouth makes it a hub for specific outdoor pursuits.

• Exceptional Fishing: The Two Hearted River is celebrated for its world-class salmon and steelhead runs, particularly during the spring and fall migrations. Anglers from across the region visit for the challenging and rewarding fishing opportunities, utilizing the adjacent boat launch.
• Lake Superior Access: The campground offers direct, stunning access to the Lake Superior shoreline. A picturesque suspension footbridge crosses the Two Hearted River, leading campers to a rocky beach known for excellent rock hounding, including the chance to find a unique “Yooperlite.”
• Paddling and Boating: A developed boat launch and skid pier are available on the river, providing easy access for small watercraft, canoes, and kayaks to explore both the river and the Lake Superior coast. Carry-in access for paddlesports is also available.
• North Country Trail Access: The campground serves as a gateway to the National North Country Trail (NCT). Hikers can access the trail directly from the area, offering miles of challenging and scenic hiking through the surrounding State Forest lands.
• Day-Use Area: A designated day-use area on the river bank includes picnic tables and charcoal grills, welcoming visitors who are just stopping by for a few hours to fish, picnic, or enjoy the view.
• Winter Camping: Unplowed winter camping is available for the most adventurous Michigan outdoors enthusiasts, though seasonal roads leading to the campground are not maintained during the winter months.

Because the Two Hearted River Campground is a rustic facility operating on a first-come, first-served basis, general inquiries are best directed through the managing State Park. Keep in mind that for reservations, the policy is walk-in only.

• Address: 33115 Co Rd 423, Newberry, MI 49868, USA
• Managing Entity: Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• Phone for Park Management/Inquiries: While the specific campground does not have a dedicated, staffed phone line, general inquiries for the area can typically be directed to Tahquamenon Falls State Park at a number such as (906) 492-3415, though local campers should confirm the current contact for the State Forest Campground Division.

The Mouth of the Two Hearted River Campground is unequivocally worth choosing for Michigan residents seeking an authentic, secluded, and highly activity-driven Upper Peninsula experience. It is the premier choice for those who define camping by its rustic nature—meaning no electric hookups, first-come, first-served sites, and a commitment to enjoying the outdoors without resort amenities.

This campground stands out for its unique blend of river and Great Lakes access. The spectacular scenery where the river meets Lake Superior, the opportunity to fish for trophy salmon and steelhead, and the direct link to the North Country Trail are unmatched local highlights. For the Michigan camper who enjoys fishing, paddling, hiking, and the quiet solitude of the forest, the Mouth of the Two Hearted River offers a deeply rewarding experience. If your goal is to truly unplug and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rugged legacy of the Upper Peninsula, the drive to this legendary Michigan location is a journey well worth taking.

Two hearted river

33115 Co Rd 423, Newberry, MI 49868, USA