Stargazers U.P. Campground (at North Ironwood Acres)

For us Michiganders, the Upper Peninsula is synonymous with unparalleled natural beauty, endless outdoor adventures, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. When we seek a camping experience that truly elevates our U.P. getaway, finding a place that combines comfort with direct access to all the wonders of the region is a top priority. Stargazers U.P. Campground, a brand-new addition to the established North Ironwood Acres resort in Ironwood, MI, is poised to become that perfect destination. It’s designed not just for a stay, but for an immersive experience, offering everything from seamless setups to incredible stargazing opportunities, all backed by truly friendly and informative staff.

Stargazers U.P. Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a thoughtfully developed extension of the trusted North Ironwood Acres resort, aiming to provide a superior camping experience in the Western U.P. Reviews from their very first campers highlight just how smoothly everything operates, even from the outset. Visitors have raved about the "easy set ups" and "leveled ground," which are essential for a stress-free arrival, especially for RVers. What truly stands out, however, is the "friendly and informative staff." Owners Justin and Brittany, who are often described as live-in hosts, provide a warm welcome and are a wealth of local knowledge, ensuring guests feel right at home and well-equipped to explore the area.

The "beautiful surroundings" are a given in this part of Michigan, and Stargazers U.P. Campground leverages this perfectly. Its name itself points to one of its key features: a stunning northern view at night, ideal for incredible stargazing or even catching a glimpse of the elusive Aurora Borealis. Beyond the celestial wonders, the campground offers great amenities, including a bathhouse with flush toilets and showers, and a private pond for catch-and-release fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Its integrated nature within the North Ironwood Acres resort means campers also have convenient access to the main lodge, which features a cocktail bar, a general store for essentials and treats (including ice cream and pizza!), and Wi-Fi. This blend of comfortable camping with resort-level amenities makes Stargazers U.P. Campground an ideal base for any Michigander eager to explore Ironwood and the surrounding natural splendor.

Stargazers U.P. Campground is located at N12390 Black River Rd, Ironwood, MI 49938, USA. This prime location places it firmly within Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula, a region renowned for its dense forests, numerous waterfalls, majestic Lake Superior coastline, and extensive trail systems. Ironwood is a gateway city to many of these natural attractions, making the campground an ideal base for exploration.

One of the most significant advantages of its location is being situated directly on the Black River Scenic Byway. This designated scenic road offers breathtaking views and provides convenient access to the five iconic Black River Scenic Byway waterfalls, including Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone, Conglomerate, and Rainbow Falls. For us Michiganders, this means stunning natural beauty is literally at our doorstep.

Accessibility from various parts of Michigan is relatively straightforward via major state highways leading into the Western U.P., such as US-2. Once in the Ironwood area, Black River Road provides direct access to the campground. Its proximity to key regional landmarks is a major draw:

• Lake Superior: The campground is the closest lodging in the area to Lake Superior's Black River Harbor, offering easy access to the big lake for boating, fishing, and exploring. Little Girls Point park/beach is also within 20 minutes.
• Waterfalls & Trails: Beyond the Black River waterfalls, numerous other falls, lookouts, and trails are in the immediate area to explore, perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
• Winter Recreation: For the snowy season, Stargazers U.P. Campground is exceptionally well-located. Guests can snowshoe directly on-site or head down the road to Lake Superior or the waterfalls. It’s within 10 minutes of ABR Ski Trails, Wolverine Ski Trails, and the Iron Belle Trail, and about 20 minutes from the Historic Montreal Ski Trails. Major ski resorts like Big Powderhorn Mountain (3 miles), Mt. Zion Ski Hill & Tubing (8-10 min), and Snowriver Ski Resort (10-15 min) are all a short drive away.
• State Parks: While providing a secluded feel, the campground is within reasonable driving distance of major state parks, including Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (35 minutes to Presque Isle, 1 hour to Lake of the Clouds, 1 hour to Porcupine Mtns Ski Resort), Lake Gogebic State Park (24 miles), and even Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin (29 miles).
• Mountain Biking: Mountain biking opportunities are available just up the road at Copper Peak (3 miles).

This central location on a scenic byway, coupled with direct access to diverse recreational opportunities, makes Stargazers U.P. Campground an exceptionally convenient and appealing base for any Michigan adventurer.

Stargazers U.P. Campground (at North Ironwood Acres) is designed to provide a comfortable and amenity-rich camping experience, blending the joys of outdoor living with convenient resort services.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground features 25 spacious (75' x 35' or 40' x 80') grassy sites, all equipped with water, sewer, and 20/30/50 amp electric hookups. These sites are large and level, making them "big rig friendly" and easy to set up, accommodating various vehicle sizes.

• Tenting Sites: While primarily focused on RVs with full hookups, tenting is permitted, offering options for those who prefer traditional tent camping.

• Modern Bathhouse: A dedicated bathhouse provides clean showers and flush toilets, a significant comfort amenity for all campers.

• Catch & Release Pond: There is a private pond on the property available for catch-and-release fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, offering on-site water recreation.

• Private, Wooded Multi-Use Trails: The property features private, wooded trails that provide guests direct access to the Black River for river fishing, wading, and exploring, enhancing the wilderness experience.

• On-Site Lodge Amenities (Black River Lodge): Campers have easy access to the main Lodge, which houses several convenient amenities:

  • Cocktail Bar: A full-service cocktail lounge offering cocktails, mocktails, bottled and tap beer, wine, and 12" bar-style pizzas.
  • General Store: A small general store near the main entrance stocked with travel essentials, snacks, beverages, ice cream, firewood, and bagged ice.
  • Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available to all property guests inside the Lodge, allowing for connectivity if needed.
  • Guest Lounges: Cozy guest lounges (Birch Lounge and Loft Lounge) are available for relaxing, playing games, or even remote working.
  • Laundry Facilities: While not explicitly stated for campers, the associated Townhouse rentals offer private laundry, suggesting potential access or nearby options within the resort.

• Pet-Friendly: All accommodations at North Ironwood Acres, including the campground, are dog-friendly (with some restrictions).

• Recreational Facilities: A small playground is available nearby the campground for children. Other recreational activities potentially available across the broader resort property (as indicated by Good Sam ratings) include archery range, swimming, boating, and proximity to popular activities like hiking, biking, disc golf, and offroading.

• RV Services: The broader North Ironwood Acres resort may offer on-site RV service, secure RV storage, and self-service or staffed RV wash facilities (based on Good Sam ratings, confirming with resort is advisable).

• New and Smoothly Operated: As a new addition opened in 2025, the campground benefits from fresh facilities and is already noted by early campers for running "incredibly smoothly" with "easy set ups."

• Stargazing Potential: The campground’s name is no accident. It boasts a "stunning northern view at night which is perfect for stargazing or catching a glimpse of Lady Aurora when she's dancing," offering a unique and memorable nocturnal experience.

• Spacious, Level Full Hookup Sites: The 25 full hookup RV sites are large (75' x 35' or 40' x 80'), grassy, and leveled, making for comfortable and hassle-free camping for all sizes of RVs and trailers.

• Exceptional Customer Service and Local Knowledge: Reviewers consistently praise the "friendly and informative staff," particularly owners Justin and Brittany, who offer a "warm welcome" and "great local knowledge," enhancing the guest experience.

• Integrated Resort Amenities: The benefit of being part of North Ironwood Acres means campers can enjoy a cocktail bar, general store, and Wi-Fi access at the nearby Black River Lodge, offering convenience beyond typical campgrounds.

• Prime Location on Black River Scenic Byway: Directly located on one of USA Today's Top 10 Scenic Roads, it offers immediate access to five spectacular waterfalls (Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone, Conglomerate, Rainbow Falls), Copper Peak, and Lake Superior (Black River Harbor).

• Direct River and Pond Access: Private multi-use trails lead directly to the Black River for fishing and wading, and there’s a private pond for catch-and-release fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking right on the property.

• Year-Round Recreational Hub: Beyond summer activities, it's a superb winter destination with on-site snowshoeing and close proximity to major ski trails (ABR, Wolverine, Iron Belle, Montreal) and ski resorts (Big Powderhorn, Mt. Zion, Snowriver).

• Dog-Friendly Environment: All accommodations are dog-friendly, making it easy for campers to bring their furry family members along for the adventure.

As a newly opened campground integrated into an existing resort, Stargazers U.P. Campground and North Ironwood Acres often feature various promotions and booking advantages. While specific deals can change, here’s what typically might be available or has been offered:

• Seasonal Specials: North Ironwood Acres has historically offered "Spring/Fall Specials" such as "Stay 3 nights, 4th night free" on lodging (though past promotions may exclude camping, it's worth checking for new ones). They also mention "May, Spring, Summer and Fall Specials!" on their website, indicating ongoing seasonal deals. It's highly recommended to check their official website or contact them directly for current offers specific to the campground.

• Early Booking Opportunities: They have offered opportunities for early booking, extending their booking calendar well in advance (e.g., up to October of the following year) to allow guests to secure their preferred dates, especially for peak seasons.

• Free Pumping Service: For RV guests, a pumping service may be available upon request and often offered free when staying 3 or more nights, adding value for longer stays.

• Package Deals with Other Accommodations/Services: As part of a larger resort that includes lodge rooms and townhouses, there might be opportunities for package deals that combine camping with access to other resort services or activities, especially for groups or events.

• Included Amenities: While not a discount, the inclusion of amenities like a bathhouse with showers, on-site pond access for recreation, and access to the Lodge's general store, bar, and Wi-Fi are significant value-adds that enhance the camping experience without additional fees for these specific services.

To get the most current and accurate information on any available promotions, special offers, or package deals for Stargazers U.P. Campground, contacting them directly via phone or checking their official North Ironwood Acres website is the best approach.

To plan your stay or learn more about Stargazers U.P. Campground at North Ironwood Acres, you can use the following contact details:

Address: N12390 Black River Rd, Ironwood, MI 49938, USA

Phone: (906) 932-3857

Mobile Phone: +1 906-932-3857

Email: stargazerscampground@gmail.com

It is highly recommended to call or email ahead, especially for reservations, as the campground is new and likely to gain popularity quickly. The friendly staff, including owners Justin and Brittany, are noted for being informative and welcoming, making direct contact an excellent way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. You can also visit their official North Ironwood Acres website for more detailed information and online booking.

For us Michiganders, Stargazers U.P. Campground at North Ironwood Acres represents an ideal blend of convenience, comfort, and pure Upper Peninsula adventure, making it exceptionally suitable for our local camping preferences. It’s a place that understands what we look for in an outdoor escape: quality amenities, stunning natural surroundings, and a welcoming community feel.

Firstly, its location on the Black River Scenic Byway is a major draw. We know and love our U.P. scenic routes, and being able to explore five incredible waterfalls, reach Lake Superior, and access countless trails right from our campsite is a significant advantage. This direct access to hiking, biking, fishing on the Black River, and paddleboarding on their private pond means less travel time and more time enjoying the very essence of Michigan's wilderness.

Secondly, the campground's design, with its spacious, level full-hookup RV sites and modern bathhouse, caters directly to the desire for comfortable camping without sacrificing the outdoor experience. For families or those who prefer a few more conveniences, the added benefit of being part of the North Ironwood Acres resort – with its on-site cocktail bar, general store, and Wi-Fi at the lodge – is a huge plus. It means we don't have to venture far for essentials or a relaxing evening, fostering that true "up north" vacation feel.

The emphasis on "friendly and informative staff" resonates deeply with our Midwestern values of hospitality. Knowing that local owners like Justin and Brittany are on-site, ready to provide "great local knowledge," ensures a personalized and authentic experience that many of us seek in the U.P. And, of course, the promise of exceptional stargazing – the very namesake of the campground – offers a breathtaking nightly spectacle that connects us even more profoundly with our vast Michigan skies.

Whether it’s hitting the extensive ATV and snowmobile trails directly from the campground, exploring the nearby ski resorts in winter, or simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of a fall color tour, Stargazers U.P. Campground offers a year-round, well-rounded, and genuinely Michigan-friendly camping destination. It’s a place where we can effortlessly connect with nature while still enjoying the comforts that make for a truly memorable and stress-free Upper Peninsula adventure.