ROSCOMMON KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Campbell’s to Chase Bridge: A 3‑Hour Paddle Through Northern Michigan’s Forested River
A 2.5–3 hour, 6‑mile paddle from Campbell’s to Chase Bridge that threads pristine, forested state land and is ideal for families and beginner paddlers.
Campbell’s to Chase Bridge: A 3‑Hour Paddle Through Northern Michigan’s Forested River.
Experience the beauty of northern Michigan on the popular Campbell’s to Chase Bridge trip: a 2.5 to 3‑hour, roughly 6‑mile paddle that winds through forested state land and past a scatter of private cabins, with crystal‑clear water, gentle currents and abundant wildlife—an accessible stretch suited to families and first‑time paddlers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A popular 6‑mile, 2.5–3 hour paddle
Campbell’s to Chase Bridge is the operator’s most popular trip: a roughly 6‑mile route that typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, making it a satisfying half‑day outing without committing to a full day on the water.
Forest‑lined river with clear water and wildlife
The paddle threads pristine northern Michigan forest—crystal clear waters, gentle currents and abundant wildlife—offering long stretches of quiet scenery punctuated by occasional private cabins along state land.
Set up for families and beginner paddlers
Designed for accessibility, the trip accommodates families and first‑time paddlers—canoes and kayaks only—so groups with small children or new paddlers can enjoy a manageable, scenic outing.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The flow is gentle and unhurried: put in at Campbell’s, settle into a steady paddle, and let the river carry you through shaded corridors of oak and pine. Expect long, reflective stretches of water—ideal for wildlife spotting—interspersed with pockets of cabin‑lined shoreline. At a relaxed pace the trip fills roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, ending at Chase Bridge.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this paddle suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Departures are available any time of day; last departure is 3:00 p.m. All rentals must be off the water by 6:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended on peak Saturdays and holidays in July and August.
Bring sun protection, water, and any personal flotation devices if preferred; note that glass, Styrofoam, kegs, Jello‑shots and water balloons are not allowed on the river.
This trip is available only for canoes and kayaks (sit‑in, sit‑on‑top and tandem options). Tubes rented from Campbell’s are not permitted to this bridge.
Each length and float can have different end points; if you book more than one activity, bring more than one car to manage shuttle logistics.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Campbell’s to Chase Bridge paddle?
The route is roughly 6 miles and typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.
What types of boats are allowed on this trip?
This trip is available only for canoes and kayaks; tubes rented from Campbell’s are not permitted to this bridge.
When can we depart and what is the last departure time?
Departures are available any time of day, with the last departure at 3:00 p.m.; all rentals must be off the water by 6:00 p.m.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are recommended for all trips during peak Saturdays and holidays in July and August.
How many people can fit in a rental canoe?
A canoe fits up to three small adults or two adults and two small children (ages 12 and under).
Are there items not allowed on the river?
Yes—glass, Styrofoam, kegs, Jello‑shots and water balloons are not allowed on the river.