A rustic group campground is a new camping option that will be available this year at Van Riper State Park, located near the village of Champion in Marquette County. The new group campground is a perfect "GO-Get Outdoors" opportunity for organizations such as churches, youth groups and scouting groups, who may prefer a more scenic location for camp outings.

The campground is located near the Peshekee River, about one mile west of the park's modern facilities. The location provides easy access for fishing, canoeing, and the parks hiking trails.

The new group campground has eight sites, each with a fire ring and picnic table. There also is a vault toilet and water pump located nearby. Total capacity for the group campground is 64 people. The rustic Peshekee River Cabin is only a short walk from the new group campground and can be rented for those in the group looking for additional or alternate lodging.

"There is a high demand for blocks of campsites that accommodate large groups," said Doug Barry, manager of Van Riper State Park. "We hope the groups who camp at our park will appreciate the natural beauty and more rustic setting we have available for them."

Contact Van Riper State Park at 906-339-4461 to make reservations for the rustic group campground. The rental fee for a youth group is $2.50 per person; while the non-youth group fee is $12 for four people.

All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the entrance. Cost is $24 for resident annual and $6 for resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8.