About Black River Harbor Campground
Black River Harbor Campground sits at the mouth of the Black River on the shore of Lake Superior, at the very northern edge of Ottawa National Forest near Ironwood. The campground has 38 standard nonelectric sites, with about five sites just a few hundred feet from the Lake Superior shoreline. A historic pavilion built by the Civilian Conservation Corps overlooks the harbor, and a suspension footbridge crosses the river near the marina.
Please note: for the entire 2026 season, there is no water available at the campground. Plan to bring your own drinking water, as this is a temporary but important change from past seasons.
Things to Do
This stretch of the Black River is famous for its waterfalls — five named falls (Rainbow, Sandstone, Gorge, Potawatomi, and Great Conglomerate) line a scenic byway just south of the campground, connected by a well-maintained hiking trail. The harbor itself has a small marina, a Lake Superior beach, and access to the North Country Trail. Fishing, beachcombing, and simply watching Lake Superior are popular pastimes right from the campground.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is the most reliable season for warm weather and swimming, though Lake Superior stays cold even in July and August. Fall brings vivid color along the waterfall trail and thinner crowds. Given the lack of on-site water for 2026, plan your supply accordingly regardless of season.
Reservation Tips
Sites at Black River Harbor can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Because this is a well-known waterfall and Lake Superior destination, summer weekends fill up, so book as early as your dates allow. As federal land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this campground is booked through Recreation.gov rather than MiDNRReservations.com, and the Michigan Recreation Passport does not apply.
Getting There
From Ironwood, take Black River Road (County Road 513) north for about 15 miles to its end at Black River Harbor. The drive itself is a designated National Forest Scenic Byway, passing several waterfall overlooks along the way. Ironwood has full services including groceries, fuel, and lodging.