Van Riper State Park - map and other informations

Description

Van Riper State Park is a beautiful and popular outdoor destination located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Established in 1921, this state park offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities and stunning natural scenery.

Location

Van Riper State Park is situated on the southern shore of Lake Michigamme, one of Michigan's largest inland lakes. It covers an area of approximately 1,044 acres and is located in Marquette County, about 35 miles west of Marquette.

Activities

Visitors to Van Riper State Park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. The park offers excellent opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Camping

The park features a modern campground with over 140 campsites suitable for tents and RVs. The campsites are equipped with electrical hookups and picnic tables. There are also rustic cabins available for rent.

Fishing

Lake Michigamme is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can try their luck at catching a variety of fish species including walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish.

Boating

The lake is perfect for boating enthusiasts. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from the park's boat rental facility.

Swimming

The sandy beach at Van Riper State Park provides a great spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months. Lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety.

Hiking

The park offers several scenic hiking trails that wind through forests and along the lake shore. These trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for both casual strollers and avid hikers.

Wildlife Viewing

Van Riper State Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors may spot white-tailed deer, black bears, bald eagles, and various bird species while exploring the park's trails.

Amenities

In addition to its recreational activities, Van Riper State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitors' experiences. The park has picnic areas with shelters, playgrounds for children, a visitor center with exhibits on local flora and fauna, and a camp store where visitors can purchase camping supplies and snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Van Riper State Park

Is there a fee to enter Van Riper State Park?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for vehicles entering Van Riper State Park. The current fee is $9 per vehicle for Michigan residents and $31 per vehicle for non-residents.

Are pets allowed in the park?

Yes, pets are allowed in Van Riper State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Pet owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Can I make camping reservations in advance?

Yes, camping reservations can be made in advance for Van Riper State Park. Reservations can be made online through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' reservation system or by calling the park directly.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	-6 °C 21 °F	-13 °C 9 °F	2 mm 0.1 in	30 mm 1.2 in
Feb	-6 °C 21 °F	-13 °C 9 °F	2 mm 0.1 in	32 mm 1.3 in
Mar	1 °C 34 °F	-7 °C 19 °F	20 mm 0.8 in	26 mm 1.0 in
Apr	7 °C 45 °F	-2 °C 28 °F	52 mm 2.0 in	29 mm 1.1 in
May	17 °C 63 °F	6 °C 43 °F	88 mm 3.5 in	3 mm 0.1 in
Jun	23 °C 73 °F	12 °C 54 °F	108 mm 4.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	25 °C 77 °F	15 °C 59 °F	93 mm 3.7 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	23 °C 73 °F	14 °C 57 °F	109 mm 4.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	20 °C 68 °F	11 °C 52 °F	88 mm 3.5 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	11 °C 52 °F	4 °C 39 °F	93 mm 3.7 in	8 mm 0.3 in
Nov	3 °C 37 °F	-3 °C 27 °F	31 mm 1.2 in	27 mm 1.1 in
Dec	-3 °C 27 °F	-9 °C 16 °F	14 mm 0.6 in	34 mm 1.3 in