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Ballard Canoe 1
Public Campground

Ballard Canoe 1

Arbor Vitae, Michigan
3.8 (335 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Ballard Canoe 1

Campground in Michigan.

Ballard Canoe 1 offers a peaceful retreat for RV campers seeking a authentic Michigan camping experience. Nestled in the heart of Michigan's beautiful landscape, this public campground welcomes visitors looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The park's location provides excellent access to some of Michigan's most scenic outdoor areas, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural attractions.

The surrounding area is rich with opportunities for outdoor recreation. Water enthusiasts will find plenty to love, as the park's proximity to Michigan's abundant waterways makes it a natural choice for those interested in canoeing, fishing, and boating. The region's forests provide excellent hiking and nature observation opportunities, allowing visitors to experience Michigan's diverse wildlife and plant life throughout the seasons. Whether you're an experienced outdoors person or simply looking to enjoy a slower pace of life, the natural setting offers something for everyone.

Ballard Canoe 1 serves as a wonderful jumping-off point for exploring the broader Michigan region. The campground's location makes it convenient for day trips to local attractions, scenic drives through Michigan's countryside, and visits to charming small towns that dot the landscape. Families appreciate the opportunities for outdoor education and nature-based activities that the area provides. Couples seeking a romantic getaway will find the peaceful surroundings conducive to quality time together. Solo travelers often discover the solitude and natural beauty particularly restorative.

The park itself maintains a rustic charm that appeals to traditional campers who value a back-to-basics approach to RV camping. With a solid 3.8-star rating from hundreds of reviews, visitors consistently report positive experiences. The campground's long-standing presence in the RV camping community speaks to its reliability as a destination. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, Ballard Canoe 1 provides a comfortable base for experiencing the natural beauty and outdoor recreation that makes Michigan a premier camping destination.
3.8

Rating

335

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Arbor Vitae is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Michigan weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Arbor Vitae.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Arbor Vitae. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Ballard Canoe 1 Reviews

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Lorene Branch

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Lorene Branch

My daughter and I camped here for the first time this past weekend and had a really great experience. We were meeting a large party but wanted our own space so the person we spoke with booked us a nice quiet spot the perfect size for our little camper. Everyone was courteous and helpful. The facilities and sites were clean and well maintained and we had a blast tubing down the river. We can’t wait... My daughter and I camped here for the first time this past weekend and had a really great experience. We were meeting a large party but wanted our own space so the person we spoke with booked us a nice quiet spot the perfect size for our little camper. Everyone was courteous and helpful. The facilities and sites were clean and well maintained and we had a blast tubing down the river. We can’t wait to come back next year.

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J. M. S. S.

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by J. M. S. S.

Only camped here once near the river. Lots are good size except hill is crazy sloped And almost impossible to level a trailer. There's a reason why the camp site was long. The spots we had were hard, and were not noted in booking the spots. We made it work but I would not park on the river again I would need crazy extra extensions for water and electric next time if I got the same spots. Otherwis... Only camped here once near the river. Lots are good size except hill is crazy sloped And almost impossible to level a trailer. There's a reason why the camp site was long. The spots we had were hard, and were not noted in booking the spots. We made it work but I would not park on the river again I would need crazy extra extensions for water and electric next time if I got the same spots. Otherwise the place was quiet, nice to walk around. I'm going to tey again, in different spots this time. However, the road to get to this place sucks - gravel and dust everywhere. Need to clean your trailer and vehicle after driving down the road.

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Cassidy Miller

Mar 18, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Cassidy Miller

They lost a customer of four years now from this past weekend. We had a group of 14 and a couple (2 people) from the group called and requested a refund because they weren’t able to make it. Upon check-in, another male adult, let me know that he wasn’t able to make it due to a funeral which I told the younger lady and she said that we would be able to refund and figure it all out at checkout. To s... They lost a customer of four years now from this past weekend. We had a group of 14 and a couple (2 people) from the group called and requested a refund because they weren’t able to make it. Upon check-in, another male adult, let me know that he wasn’t able to make it due to a funeral which I told the younger lady and she said that we would be able to refund and figure it all out at checkout. To say the least they refunded the couple but refused to refund the third adult that wasn’t able to join us. She even lied to me saying that that was a refund for three adults and when I questioned her, she said that’s what we agreed on ($112). (she’s talking about the couple that called to Refund talked to them about refund price). I didn’t know that you could agree or negotiate refunds what a joke. This is completely illegal and it was a shame because our entire group really enjoyed camping here for the past 4 years. I was even looking at how bad the reviews were thinking there’s no way this place has been great to us, but I can 100% understand now. I think it’s Time for them to find better staffing of ladies who can actually handle the pressure of organizing campers on a weekend.

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Marian Krause

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Marian Krause

Camped for the first time at Rifle River Campground. We had an excellent and enjoyable stay. The river flowing, breeze blowing, birds singing and even the beess buzzing beside our site, made for a great time. We'll be back in the fall! The grounds were kept up, and Staff were great to interact with! This 60+ years family run business takes pride in your experience. Thank you for such a great exper... Camped for the first time at Rifle River Campground. We had an excellent and enjoyable stay. The river flowing, breeze blowing, birds singing and even the beess buzzing beside our site, made for a great time. We'll be back in the fall! The grounds were kept up, and Staff were great to interact with! This 60+ years family run business takes pride in your experience. Thank you for such a great experience for us, our pups and our friends!! The Krause family 😊!

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Nicholas Budnik

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Nicholas Budnik

I tried to leave a review earlier. In case it didnt make it I wanted to leave another. I have always had a good experience here. Yes it may be difficult to call sometimes as they get busy with all the people. But this is a smaller owned campground with a very rustic feel. The tubing and pricing it great. I never have issues and they are very dog friendly.(Lily's first tube tripped documented below... I tried to leave a review earlier. In case it didnt make it I wanted to leave another. I have always had a good experience here. Yes it may be difficult to call sometimes as they get busy with all the people. But this is a smaller owned campground with a very rustic feel. The tubing and pricing it great. I never have issues and they are very dog friendly.(Lily's first tube tripped documented below) I will continue to support this place and be a continued clean patron. Thanks for your continued hardwork!

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