Upper Manistee River Backcountry Campsites
Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates April 1 through December 1. Reservations required Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
Winter Storm Warning issued January 19 at 1:50AM EST until January 20 at 7:00AM EST by NWS Gaylord MI
* WHAT...Heavy snow. Additional snow accumulations between 5 and 9 inches with locally higher amounts. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph and will lead to blowing and drifting snow. * WHERE...A portion of Northern Lower Michigan. * WHEN...Until 7 AM EST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning and evening commutes.
About
The Upper Manistee River Backcountry Campsites provide a rustic camping experience along the scenic backwaters of Tippy Dam Pond between Tippy Dam and Hodenpyl Dam. The campground is divided into two distinct areas: Government Landing with 7 sites (5 on the water and 2 on higher ground overlooking the river, including 2 walk-in waterfront sites) and Red Bridge River Access with 4 walk-in sites near the river. These primitive sites are situated in one of the most scenic areas of Manistee National Forest, where the Manistee River meanders through native hardwoods and pines with steep slopes and sharp bends. The area offers exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities including motorized and non-motorized boating, excellent fishing on the Manistee River, and abundant wildlife viewing. Visitors may encounter bald eagles, loons, trumpeter swans, black bears, white-tailed deer, river otters, and turtles. Hiking enthusiasts can access the renowned North Country Trail and Manistee River Trail, both offering excellent views of the forested terrain and river. Reservations are required Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend due to the popularity of these waterfront sites.
Directions
From the intersection of M-55 and M-37, head west on M-55 for 2.7 miles. Turn right onto N Warfield Rd and travel north for 5.1 miles. Turn left onto N Coates Hwy and travel west until you cross the bridge over the Manistee River. Red Bridge campsites will be on the left. For Government Landing, continue west on N Coates Hwy for 0.6 miles, turn left onto River Rd/Upper River Rd and head south for 1.3 miles. Government Landing campsites will be on the left.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 20ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 20ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| sm.fs.hmnf@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (231) 775-2421 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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