Upper Manistee River State Forest Campground

An idyllic rustic campground cut into a mature red pine plantation. The tall pines provide some screening between campsites, though there is little to no forest floor vegetation here. Sites are generally well spaced from one another.

One hand pump at the campground entrance had good tasting and relatively clear drinking water.

Several river access points are provided, though few to no campsites are actually on the river.

There were plenty of open sites on the rainy July weekend I passed through.

My girlfriend and I wanted a little weekend getaway. I came across this gem and very happy that I did. TONS of sites. We showed up Saturday evening and there were only a handful of people.

Pit bathrooms were decent. Firepits were great. Very smooth and well placed campsites with a picnic table.

We very much enjoyed ourselves. Well pump right before you enter the location.

Upper Manistee River State Forest Campground and Canoe Camp is a delightful rustic retreat nestled along the serene Manistee River. 🌲🏞 Offering superb opportunities for paddle sports 🚣‍♂ and fishing 🎣, this Crawford County gem is located 7.7 miles southwest of Frederic. 📍 Managed by Hartwick Pines State Park, this campground boasts 30 sites for tents, small trailers, and large trailers, all available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Surrounded by towering red pines and hardwoods, the campground offers a charming escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The highlight is the narrow footpath running alongside the water's edge, allowing visitors to access the river from multiple points within the campground. 🌊 A central staircase provides easy river access, or you can take the footpath near site #16. For those seeking a unique camping experience, there's a spacious group-use area by the river, ideal for paddle-in or walk-in camping.

Facilities include vault toilets and potable water from a hand-pump well, keeping the rustic charm alive. The campground's location, a quarter-mile southeast of the main entrance, ensures a tranquil atmosphere. The camping limit is set at 15 days per stay, giving you ample time to enjoy the natural beauty. 🏕

With its picturesque setting and array of activities, Upper Manistee River State Forest Campground is a haven for nature lovers. Whether you're casting a line into the river or exploring its waters by canoe, this campground promises a memorable outdoor experience. 🌅🛶

Been going here for almost 30yrs. Beautiful area and always a Good Time.

Great spot for the fall season! Must bring cash or checks to register for campsite. All self serve closest store is about 10 miles away in Grayling. There are 40 sites 10 sites that you have to carry your camping gear too. Those 10 lots seem to be the best they are so close to the river with breathtaking views. The hiking was great beautiful tall pines surrounding you. These sites are rustic they do have out houses that were kept up but we went at the end of the season and would have hated to see how they were in 90 degree weather. Overall I’m very pleased with this location. If you do decide to stay please keep it clean and respect the area! You won’t be disappointed at this little gem in the forest.

Beautiful, it's along the river

Rustic camping in CCC planted pines. If you like to fish there are roughly 4-5 campsites within walking distance of the river.

First of all I will return. Clean camp sites and pit toilets,river was near by,very short drive to off road trails and civilization. Hidden gem.

Beautiful....very secluded...sites are spaced out ...easy to get on river for kayaking...will stsy here again for sure

Full house and still quiet! Very nice.

Primative as described. Usually not many people. Great place to end a canoe trip from Cameron bridge rd.

Great little campground with in the tall pines.

Great sites on the river and nice toilets! Been going there for 35+ yrs

Been camping here since I was a kid. Got married here. Bring our kids camping here now. River's BEAUTIFUL

Rustic camping, rarely crowded. Great somewhat hidden spot.

Best place ever, had a blast kayaking with friends

Been going here for years and it's great!

One if my favorite rustic parks!!

It's peaceful.. Very nice

Beautiful place to float the river.