Michigan / Manistee County / Manistee National Forest - Manistee Ranger District / Manistee National Forest

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.

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.

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