While UPPCO's hydroelectric facilities generate clean, renewable energy, they also help connect people with some of the Upper Peninsula's most scenic outdoor destinations. Tucked along the rivers and reservoirs that help power our communities, UPPCO maintains three free rustic campgrounds where residents and visitors can camp, fish, boat, and enjoy everything the U.P. has to offer.
A Community Benefit
Hydroelectric generation depends on rivers and reservoirs that are shared natural resources. As a steward of these waterways, UPPCO is committed to protecting public access and maintaining recreational opportunities. It's one way we help ensure the places that generate renewable energy can also be enjoyed by those who live, work, and visit the Upper Peninsula.
Rustic Camping at Its Best
If you're looking to unplug and reconnect with nature, UPPCO's campgrounds offer a true rustic camping experience. Tucked away along quiet reservoirs and off the beaten path, these campgrounds provide a peaceful escape from the pace of everyday life. Whether you're casting a line at sunrise, paddling across calm waters, or simply enjoying an evening around the campfire, you'll find picturesque settings, relaxing surroundings, and plenty of room to slow down.
Each campsite includes basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings, with hand-pump water available throughout the campgrounds and vault toilets nearby. While you won't find electric hookups, showers, or other modern conveniences, you'll discover something many campers value even more: quiet surroundings, easy access to nature and some sites with beautiful waterfront views.
Three Unique Camping Experiences
While all three campgrounds provide free, rustic camping, each offers its own setting and recreational opportunities. Here's what you can expect at each location.
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Bond Falls Campground
Bond Falls Campground is the largest and most popular of the three locations, with 48 rustic campsites situated by the Bond Falls Reservoir. Visitors appreciate the campground's peaceful setting, easy water access, and proximity to one of the Upper Peninsula's most visited waterfalls.
Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or simply looking for a quiet weekend by the water, Bond Falls offers something for nearly every camper. The campground includes both traditional campground-style sites (West) and more dispersed campsites that provide additional privacy and scenic views (East).
Get Directions to Bond Falls West Campground
Get Directions to Bond Falls East Campground -
Prickett Lake CampgroundPrickett Lake Campground is a peaceful destination ideal for paddlers and those looking to escape the crowds. The reservoir is particularly well suited for kayaks, canoes, and other small watercraft, making it a great choice for campers seeking a slower pace.
Get Directions to Prickett Dam Campground
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Boney Falls CampgroundBoney Falls Campground is a favorite among anglers seeking a quiet place to fish and unwind. The smaller campground offers a relaxing atmosphere with waterfront access and serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the surrounding area.
Get Directions to Boney Falls Campground
Planning Your Visit
Before packing your gear, here are a few things to know:
- Cost: Camping is free.
- Reservations: None. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend planning a backup campground in the off-chance all the sites are occupied upon your arrival.
- Season: Boney Falls and Prickett open May 15 through October 15. Bond Falls opens May 10 to accommodate early fishing season and remains open through October 15.
- Length of stay: Maximum stay is 14 nights per year.
- Pets: Pets are welcome but must remain on a leash.
- Boat launch: Each campground contains its own public, maintained boat launch.
Holiday weekends, including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, are typically the busiest times of the season, with Bond Falls often reaching capacity. Outside of peak weekends, campers frequently have good luck finding an available site, though availability cannot be guaranteed.
A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is that these rustic campsites are completely free to use. In many parts of the Upper Peninsula, waterfront camping is limited, making these locations a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the region's most scenic landscapes without the cost of a traditional campground.
Whether you're planning a fishing trip, paddling adventure, fall color tour, or simply looking for a quiet weekend outdoors, UPPCO's campgrounds offer a chance to experience the natural beauty that makes the Upper Peninsula special.
We invite you to unplug, relax, and discover one of the many ways UPPCO is proud to serve the communities we call home.