Dispersed camping along the Manistee River Trail offers designated sites on the eastern side of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, with different regulations than the North Country Trail section. The river trail restricts camping to marked sites only, while the North Country Trail allows camping anywhere. During off-season months, particularly September through April, campers can access first-come, first-served sites at several locations throughout the forest without reservations.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park provides direct river access for anglers with "fish cleaning station" facilities. "Large campground, with very clean restrooms and showers. Beach, boat launch, childrens playground, fish cleaning station, store, pizza place, and nice hiking trails," notes Kammy H.
Winter activities: Unlike many Michigan camping areas, several campgrounds in Huron-Manistee remain open year-round. Green Lake Rustic South maintains winter accessibility with trails suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. "My family has been camping every summer at Interlochen for for the past 25+ years. The employees are great, facilities are what you would expect at a campground," shares Elizabeth G.
River trips: Multiple outfitters near Wellston offer canoe, kayak and tube rentals for the Pine River. Kestelwoods Campground serves as a strategic base for water activities. "In the Manistee National Forest, close to major trailheads, and right between two prime access points to the Pine river for canoeing and kayaking. Less than a mile to river trip rental locations also," writes Melissa V.
What campers like
Large, spaced-out sites: Seaton Creek Campground earns praise for its generous camping areas. "The sites are large and well maintained. You are surrounded by beautiful pines," notes Erin E., while another camper highlights "the drinking water is fantastic, trails galore, spacious campsites."
Direct water access: Many sites provide options for launching non-motorized watercraft. "Camp staff very friendly and park is well maintained. Nice hiking trails nearby and a 20 minute drive to a whole lot of entertainment!" remarks Kris D. about Northern Exposure Campground.
Evening activities: Some campgrounds organize communal events during summer months. Coolwater on the Pine River Campground offers "evening activities at the Camp Store/Office on special weekends," according to Anne G., who adds that "this campground has the cleanest restroom/shower facilities of any campground I have been too."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service throughout the national forest ranges from spotty to nonexistent. "There is no internet service with Verizon. Occasional texts came through," reports Don B. about Peterson Bridge campground. Plan accordingly by downloading maps or bringing printed materials.
Wildlife awareness: Bears and their cubs have been spotted in several campground areas. Peterson Bridge visitors received specific warnings: "The host greeted us the second we got there. He informed us they had a bear with cubs in the area. We never saw them but something to keep in mind," notes Shelby S.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds switch between reservation-only and first-come systems depending on season. "Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov," explains Truly W. about Government Landing Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Great place to take a camper with family. The campground offers clean facilities, general store, rentals for the lake, and camp events like movie night," shares Dalton B. about Northern Exposure Campground.
Swimming options: Not all water access points are suitable for children. At Tippy Dam State Recreation Area, "campsites along the lake are high overlook campsites with narrow trails down to the water. Minimal swimming area but ours had a small sand bottom," reports James.
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds organize special events for younger campers. "Nice little camp store and pizza restaurant on site. Great playground, evening activities. Nice mix of electric hook up, R.V. and tent sites," notes Anne G. about Northern Exposure Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation difficulties for larger rigs. "It was very beautiful and peaceful stay. This was a very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident," warns Brittany D. about Government Landing.
Electric and water hookups: For those requiring power, select campgrounds offer partial facilities. Kestelwoods provides "20/30Amp Electric, Water hook up, Clean Bathhouses x 4, Heated pool, Honey Wagon, Firewood," according to Traci L., making it suitable for longer stays with pets.
Site selection advice: The terrain can make some spots better suited than others for different RV types. "I think next time we will get one of the lake front sites. The view is amazing," recommends Macy M. about Northern Exposure Campground.
