Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape into nature and enjoy some peace and quiet. This area offers a unique camping experience with plenty of space between sites, ensuring you can unwind without feeling crowded.

The campsites are mostly located along the river, providing beautiful views and easy access to water for your needs. Many visitors have praised the scenic hiking trails, with one camper noting, “You’re in for a beautiful and gentle hike.” Fire pits are available, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars.

If you’re planning to visit, be aware that the area can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is a smart move. Reviewers have mentioned the abundance of firewood and the lovely mini-waterfall nearby, which adds to the charm of the location. Just remember to pack your bug spray, as the area is known for ticks.

Located near the Manistee River, this spot is ideal for both beginner and experienced hikers. With its rolling hills and stunning river views, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or a longer adventure, Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping has plenty to offer.

Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

Manistee National Forest camping is some of the best the midwest has to offer. You do not need a permit to camp on the National Forests or in designated campgrounds. If your campfire will be on National Forest System lands you will not need a wood permit to cut firewood. Dispersed and Primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".


Huron-Manistee National Forests

Searching for the best camping near Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Huron-Manistee National Forests. Discover great camping spots near Huron-Manistee National Forests, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan

Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike. 

Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!

Great trail 

Too much to say about this! 

Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side). 

Note; NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots. 

My review describes some of the MRT spots. 

MI Backpacking at its Finest!

Although this is listed as "dispersed" camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups. The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far. No matter where you end up setting up camp, you're in for a beautiful and gentle hike.

Beautiful sites and pleasant hiking

Great river trail with a decent amount of campsites. We arrived late Friday and most spots were taken. I’d imagine most spots are scoped out earlier in the evening. A lot of people camping/running/hiking. The east side of the river is more hilly but has an abundance of water spots to fill up. The west side of the river doesn’t have any water spots until about the last mile north at a small bridge. Plenty of firewood to salvage on both sides, albeit some of it was wet. We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night. Hammock was not the best option but always made for a good story to tell your friends. Second night was good. We stayed atop the crest of a hill on the west side down a path. There are  designated camp sites with markers but we didn’t opt for making it a point to find one. Any place off the beaten path will do. You will see some spots that people have camped.

Good for a 2-day camp.

Did a 1 night backpacking trip on the MRT/NCT loop and we loved the spot we had. All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful! We actually had a spot on the NCT side, the spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!

Great Campsites!

We love this place!! We’ve been back multiple times and always feel at home! The NCT is further from the river and a bit hilly, but the MRT sites are nicer :) 

Our favorite place

I've hiked and kayaked this trail on a few occasions and I can confidently say this is one of my favorite trails in all of Michigan. You have the option to do the loop, they allow dispersed camping, and there is plenty to see and do. Waterfalls, river bends, wildlife, this trail has it all. Best thing to do is camp for 2 nights and take your time. Loved it.

Photos of Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

Real photos from real campers