Bowman Bridge River Access

Bowman Bridge offers convenient access to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, a popular destination for canoeists and kayakers. Located about 5 miles west of Baldwin on W 52nd Street (also referenced as 56th Street), the access point is situated at the base of the Bowman Bridge Campground. The site provides a boat ramp suitable for launching smaller watercraft into this scenic river system, which is known for excellent paddling and fishing opportunities.

The facility is part of a larger recreation area that includes campground amenities, making it ideal for paddlers planning multi-day trips. Watercraft rentals are available on-site, and the Pere Marquette River is well-suited for canoeing and kayaking. The area also features hiking access and connector trails to the North Country National Scenic Trail for those interested in exploring beyond the water. For more information or reservations at the adjacent campground, contact the facility at 231-745-8760 or the federal recreation line at 877-444-6777.

Overview
Bowman Bridge Campground is perfect for true nature immersion. Campers come here for easy access to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River and for the delightful views of the great outdoors.Recreation
The top three activities for campers at Bowman Bridge are canoeing, fishing and hiking. Anglers cast for brown trout, salmon, steelhead and rainbow trout.

Watercraft rentals are...

Overview
Bowman Bridge Campground is perfect for true nature immersion. Campers come here for easy access to the Pere Marquette National Scenic River and for the delightful views of the great outdoors.Recreation
The top three activities for campers at Bowman Bridge are canoeing, fishing and hiking. Anglers cast for brown trout, salmon, steelhead and rainbow trout.

Watercraft rentals are available at two nearby liveries in Baldwin. A permit is required to float the river from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through Monday of Labor Day weekend. Watercraft hours during the permit season are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hikers can head up the campground's connector trail to the North Country National Scenic Trail. This "north country" trail weaves through many scenic, historic and cultural areas across seven states, measuring 4,600 miles end-to-end.Facilities
Campsites are in a wooded setting, but due to a tornado that passed through in 2005, tall trees and shade are less dense than in neighboring campgrounds.

The campground has a single loop 16 paved family campsites. There are also 4 walk-in family campsites and 4 tent-only group sites that can accommodate up to 20 people each.Natural Features
The campground is situated along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River, a 66-mile stretch of clear, unspoiled waters within the Huron-Manistee National Forests in Michigan. Large blocks of public land offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and hunting can be found in the surrounding area.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors enjoy exploring the extent of the Pere Marquette National Scenic River. Other nearby attractions include the Bowman Lake Foot Travel Area and the historic community of Idlewild.

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