Upper Manistee River Backcountry Campsites in MI -- Campground & RV Camping

Dispersed campsites along the Manistee River backwaters sit between Tippy Dam and Hodenpyl Dam in native hardwoods and pines. The area includes 7 sites at Government Landing, with 5 on the water, 2 on higher ground, and 2 walk-in options. The Red Bridge access adds 4 walk-in sites with drinking water. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, lantern hook, and access to vault toilets and boat ramps. The surroundings feature steep riverbanks and wildlife like bald eagles, bears, and deer. The North Country Trail and Manistee River Trail offer foot travel through the forested river terrain.

Getting there: For All Campsites: From the intersection of M55 and M37, head west on M-55 for 2.7 miles Turn right onto N Warfield Rd, then 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 Campsites: Continue west on N Coates Hwy toward Upper River Rd 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

• Limited separation from through roads or other sites here, an 11-site campground with the nearest through road 0.1 miles off.
• The Tippy Dam Pond shoreline is 0.1 mi off.
• 6 hike-in sites, with 9 on the water.

Rules