Union River 'Big Bear' Campground

For Michiganders seeking an unparalleled camping experience that combines modern comforts with breathtaking natural beauty, Union River 'Big Bear' Campground in Ontonagon is a premier destination. Nestled conveniently at the base of the magnificent Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and just steps from the majestic Lake Superior, this campground offers an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure. If you're looking for a meticulously clean, well-equipped, and friendly base to explore the wonders of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Big Bear Campground truly lives up to its reputation.

From the moment you arrive, the commitment to camper satisfaction is evident. Visitors consistently rave about the campground's cleanliness, from the well-maintained sites to the spotless, modern bathrooms and showers. Imagine waking up to the fresh U.P. air, enjoying your coffee with an amazing view of a Lake Superior sunrise, and capping off your day with a "priceless" sunset over the vast expanse of water. The strategic location provides not just scenic beauty but also incredible convenience, with a well-stocked camp store that offers everything from forgotten essentials to unique gifts, and even competitively priced hardwood campfire bundles – a rare find that burns longer and hotter than softwood alternatives.

Union River 'Big Bear' Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a gateway to endless outdoor activities. With direct access to Lake Superior's sandy beaches and over 90 miles of hiking trails within the adjacent Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, including famous spots like Lake of the Clouds, adventurers will find no shortage of things to do. The friendly and pleasant staff further enhance the experience, ensuring that every stay is comfortable, safe, and memorable for families and "quick access seekers" alike.

Union River 'Big Bear' Campground is ideally situated at 35653 107th Engineers Memorial Hwy, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA. This prime address places it just two miles west of Silver City and, crucially, right at the entrance to the vast and beautiful Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Its location on the historic 107th Engineers Memorial Highway makes it an easily identifiable and accessible landmark.

For Michigan residents traveling from the Lower Peninsula, the journey typically involves crossing the iconic Mackinac Bridge and then heading west on US-2 or M-28 through the stunning landscapes of the Upper Peninsula. From there, M-107 leads directly to the campground, which is essentially at the doorstep of "The Porkies." This makes it a straightforward drive for those coming from across the state.

For example, from Marquette, the drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours west, offering a relatively quick escape to this renowned natural area. From more southerly cities like Grand Rapids or Detroit, the drive will be longer, typically 6-8 hours, making it an excellent destination for a week-long vacation or an extended long weekend. The campground's paved driveways and gravel pads ensure easy accessibility for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and travel trailers. Its proximity to the Porcupine Mountains Visitor's Center (within walking distance) and a mile of sandy Lake Superior beach across the street further enhance its accessibility and convenience, allowing campers to quickly immerse themselves in the region's top attractions.

Union River 'Big Bear' Campground prides itself on offering a comprehensive suite of services and amenities that cater to a wide range of campers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of the Upper Peninsula.

• Full Hookup Sites (Water & Electric): Most of the 45 spacious, level, and easily-accessible campsites come equipped with power (30/50 amp available) and water hookups. Some sites also offer sewer hookups for full convenience, while others are back-in or pull-thru with water and electric only, and tent sites with 20-amp power.

• Modern Restrooms and Hot Showers: The campground features clean, modern, and well-maintained indoor restroom facilities with hot showers. Visitors consistently praise their cleanliness and comfort. Some even mention "soft music playing" in the restrooms, adding to the pleasant experience.

• Camp Store & Propane Exchange: A well-stocked camp store on the premises sells just about "all the little things you might have forgotten," along with gifts, snacks, refreshments, and competitively priced hardwood campfire bundles. Propane exchange is also available.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RVs and trailers, making waste disposal hassle-free.

• Free Wi-Fi: Campers can stay connected with free Wi-Fi available at their campsites, a valuable amenity for planning excursions or sharing their U.P. adventures.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground, with certain restrictions (e.g., must be leashed, cannot be left unattended, no excessive barking), making it a great option for those who travel with their furry companions.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires under the stars.

• Ice and Firewood Sales: Firewood and ice are readily available for purchase at the office, eliminating the need for off-site trips.

• Community Fire Pit: A community fire pit on the front lawn, often with swings and chairs, provides a communal gathering space with a view of Lake Superior.

Union River 'Big Bear' Campground boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that firmly establish it as a top-tier camping destination in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

• Unbeatable Location: Situated literally at the entrance to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and across the street from Lake Superior, the campground offers unparalleled access to two of Michigan's most iconic natural attractions. This prime location allows for "endless close hiking trails" and immediate enjoyment of the lake.

• Direct Lake Superior Access and Views: The campground features over a mile of sandy beach on Lake Superior, directly across the road. This provides an amazing view of sunsets and offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, sunbathing, and beachcombing for colorful agates and Yooperlites. Many sites offer direct views of the lake.

• Proximity to Porcupine Mountains: Within walking distance of the Porcupine Mountains Visitor's Center, campers have easy access to over 90 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, towering cliffs, and the famous Lake of the Clouds overlook. This makes it an ideal basecamp for extensive exploration of "The Porkies."

• Spacious, Shady, and Level Sites: The campsites are described as quiet, shady, spacious, and level, surrounded by lush forest. Gravel pads and paved driveways throughout the campground enhance comfort and ease of access.

• Excellent Camp Store: The on-site camp store is a significant highlight, praised for its wide selection of gifts, amenities, and essentials, including competitively priced hardwood campfire bundles that burn longer than other local options.

• Stunning Sunsets and Stargazing: Campers consistently rave about the "amazing view of the sunset" over Lake Superior and the "great view of the stars" at night, offering memorable natural spectacles.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is highlighted as "great for families" due to its safe spot, amenities, and easy access to diverse activities suitable for all ages.

• Helpful and Friendly Staff: Positive reviews frequently mention the pleasant, friendly, and helpful staff/owners, contributing significantly to a positive camping experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or additional information about Union River 'Big Bear' Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 35653 107th Engineers Memorial Hwy, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA

Phone: (906) 885-5324

Mobile Phone: +1 906-885-5324 (This is the same number, formatted for international dialing.)

Email: info@unionrivercampground.com

Website: For more detailed information, campsite policies, and potentially online reservations, it is highly recommended to visit their official website at unionrivercampground.com. Campers are advised to check in at the office prior to entering the campground. Given its popularity and prime location, booking early is often recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer and the Porcupine Mountains Music Festival weekend (typically the last weekend of August).

Union River 'Big Bear' Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Michigan locals, offering a comprehensive and truly memorable Upper Peninsula experience that caters to both seasoned adventurers and families seeking a comfortable natural retreat. For Michiganders, this campground presents an ideal base to explore some of the state's most iconic landscapes.

Its prime location directly adjacent to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park means that Michigan residents have immediate access to over 90 miles of world-class hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking overlooks like Lake of the Clouds, all without lengthy travel from their campsite. This makes it incredibly convenient for weekend warriors or those on longer vacations who want to maximize their time exploring "The Porkies."

Furthermore, the campground's proximity to Lake Superior, with over a mile of sandy beach just across the road, is a huge draw for Michiganders who cherish the Great Lakes. The opportunity to witness "amazing sunset" views, swim in the vast lake, or simply stroll along the shoreline collecting unique stones perfectly aligns with Michigan's strong outdoor culture. The presence of modern amenities like full hookups (electric and water at most sites), clean restrooms with hot showers, and a well-stocked camp store means locals can enjoy the rugged beauty of the U.P. without sacrificing comfort, making it suitable for all types of campers, including families with young children and those with RVs.

The friendly staff and the emphasis on cleanliness create a welcoming and safe environment that resonates with Michigan values of hospitality and appreciation for nature. Whether you're looking for an active adventure filled with hiking and kayaking or a peaceful getaway to enjoy the unparalleled sunsets and stargazing, Union River 'Big Bear' Campground offers an outstanding and authentic Upper Peninsula experience right in Michigan's own backyard.

Union River 'Big Bear' Campground

35653 107th Engineers Memorial Hwy, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA