Sawdust Hole Angler Access

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations. Road access may be limited during winter months depending on snow conditions.

About

Sawdust Hole Angler Access sits along the Manistee National Scenic River and carries a unique connection to the region's logging history. In the 1800s, lumber operations and river log drives abandoned many logs in the river. During the early 1900s, salvage operations retrieved these logs and milled them on-site, creating massive piles of sawdust on the flats north of the river. The original name, Sawdust Pile, reflects this heritage. The site provides rustic camping and river access with multiple foot paths leading down to the Manistee River from the camping area. The North Country National Scenic Trail passes below and west of the site, offering opportunities for extended hiking. During summer months, the river attracts canoeists and kayakers, while fall brings anglers pursuing salmon runs. The location sees light use compared to more developed campgrounds in the area. As a primitive forest service site, Sawdust Hole requires visitors to be self-sufficient. Water must be treated or filtered from the river, and vault toilets are the only facilities provided. The rustic character and riverside setting appeal to those seeking a quieter forest experience away from more crowded recreation areas.

Directions

From Manistee, travel east on M-55 for 15 miles. Turn left and travel north on High Bridge Road for 6 miles. Turn right and travel east on Coates Highway for 3.5 miles. Turn right and travel south on Dilling Road for 2 miles. Turn right and travel north on FR 8799 to the site entrance.

Nearby Campgrounds