Gleasons Landing
4.3527 reviewsGLEASONS LANDING, BROOKS ROAD
Gleasons Landing
$30.00 - $90.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $30 per night for tent-only non-electric sites and $90 per night for group tent-only areas. Fees may vary by reservation method, with online bookings incurring an $8 reservation fee.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine Pere Marquette River, Gleasons Landing beckons tent campers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This cherished riverside sanctuary combines the tranquility of secluded wooded sites with breathtaking water views, creating the perfect basecamp for anglers casting for trophy steelhead, paddlers navigating crystal-clear currents, and hikers exploring ancient forest trails. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the gentle rush of river water and the whisper of wind through towering pines.
Gleasons Landing is primarily a rustic campground offering tent-only sites and group camping options. RVs and tent trailers are not supported due to the walk-in nature of the sites.
Historical SignificanceGleasons Landing holds a special place in conservation history as part of the Pere Marquette River corridor, Michigan's pioneering National Scenic River since 1978. This designation recognizes not just the river's natural beauty, but its vital role in the region's heritage. The surrounding Huron-Manistee National Forests tell the story of Michigan's transformation from logging frontier to recreational paradise, where century-old logging camps have given way to peaceful campsites and the thunder of log drives has been replaced by the splash of paddles and cast lines.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Gleasons Landing with its own distinctive palette. Summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and lazy river floats, though savvy campers come prepared for the evening mosquito symphony. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise, with maples and oaks erupting in fiery reds and golden yellows against crisp, bug-free air that makes for ideal sleeping weather under canvas.
ElevationThe campground's gentle topography creates an intimate connection with the river below while maintaining a comfortable distance from seasonal water level changes.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched atop a scenic bluff, Gleasons Landing offers front-row seats to one of Michigan's most spectacular river valleys. Majestic white pines and sturdy oaks form a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Below, the Pere Marquette River sparkles like liquid crystal, its swift currents carving through the landscape with sections of thrilling rapids alternating with peaceful pools. Morning mists rise from the water like nature's own theater curtain, revealing daily performances of leaping fish, gliding eagles, and deer coming to drink at water's edge.
Geological RegionGleasons Landing occupies a privileged position within the vast million-acre tapestry of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, where Michigan's Lower Peninsula reveals its wild heart. The campground's strategic placement on a river bluff showcases the region's geological story - ancient glaciers carved these valleys, while centuries of flowing water polished the riverbed to perfection. Towering white pines and mighty oaks stand as sentinels, their roots anchored in soil that has nurtured Michigan forests for millennia, creating a landscape where every vista tells the tale of time, water, and wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe official information does not provide specific accessibility details. User reviews do not mention features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as decent-sized with sufficient space for tents and gear.
Sites PrivacySites are noted for being secluded and spread out, offering privacy. One user review mentioned, 'Campsites are far enough apart that noise... isn't really an issue.'
Total Campsites66 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for a peaceful experience. Wagons are recommended to transport gear due to the walk-in nature of the campground.
Best CampsitesGS1 and GS2 are highly rated for their proximity to the river, and several individual sites (e.g., 003 and 004) offer scenic views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
Two group sites are available, each accommodating up to 20 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features walk-in sites with no RV access. Sites are spread apart to ensure privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 2 to October 12. Reservable from June 24 to October 12.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground includes first-come, first-served sites, but availability patterns are not detailed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities include world-class fishing, canoeing, kayaking, scenic nature walks, and wildlife viewing. The river's catch-and-release fly fishing zone is popular among anglers, and permits are required for floating the river during peak summer months. Trails offer shore access for anglers and short hikes.
Hiking
Short scenic trails are available along the river for nature walks and to provide shore access for anglers.Fishing
Fishing is highly popular, particularly for brown trout, steelhead, and salmon. The campground is located at the start of a fly fishing and catch-and-release zone. Reel fishing is available upstream.Swimming
The river offers opportunities for wading and swimming, as mentioned in user reviews. One camper noted they swam right by their site.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are frequent activities. A boat ramp is available within the campground, and rentals can be accessed in Baldwin.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is available, though specific species are not mentioned. Users commented on the natural surroundings being perfect for immersion in nature.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the authoritative content or user reviews.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular activities at Gleasons Landing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned, though complaints about noise suggest general expectations for quiet at night.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes can be severe, particularly in summer months. Ticks were reported as problematic during certain reviews.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely located in nearby Baldwin, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 to October 12.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the official documentation or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on the Pere Marquette River, with several sites offering direct river access.
Common complaintsIssues include bathroom cleanliness, noisy neighboring campers, and morning disturbances such as mowing. Mosquitoes and ticks are seasonal nuisances.
HostThe campground host was described as friendly and maintaining clean grounds. However, one review mentioned odd behavior from a host walking through the site unannounced.
Campground Map
GLEASONS LANDING, BROOKS ROAD
Driving directionsFrom Baldwin, take 7th street west 5 blocks to Cherry Street, then south 1.5 blocks to 52nd Street (Carr Road), go west 2 miles to Jenks Road and turn left. Drive 0.4 miles and turn right on Shortcut Road and drive 0.7 miles. Turn right at T junction onto 60th Street and take the first left at S Brooks Road. Follow the road to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is relatively secluded yet not far from town. Recently paved roads have improved access, as indicated by user reviews.Nearby places
Baldwin: approximately 5 miles. Ludington: approximately 30 miles.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as food, firewood, and boat rentals are available in Baldwin, which is approximately 5 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
27 reviews
Gleasons Landing is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Gleasons Landing praise its peaceful and secluded nature, proximity to the river, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Several users highlighted the spacious campsites, clean vault toilets, and the beauty of the location. However, complaints include mosquito issues during certain seasons, noisy group campers, and occasional dissatisfaction with campground management.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Users commonly praised the campground’s beautiful location on the river, spacious campsites, and clean vault toilets. Many highlighted the opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful immersion...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquito problems during certain seasons, noisy neighbors at group sites, campground management issues (e.g., mowing early in the morning), and vault toilets needing better maintenance were noted....
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and screened canopies during summer months to combat bugs. Use wagons or baskets on wheels to transport gear due to the walk-in sites. Arrive early for first-come,...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention mosquitoes as a major problem, suggesting bug sprays and preventive measures. Fall and spring are highlighted as ideal due to cooler weather and fewer bugs. Winter...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful location on the Pere Marquette River. Tent camping sites available right on the river.' - Frank Post
2. 'Nothing beats camping right by the river.' - Jeff Shapter
3. 'Great...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site GS1 and GS2 received positive reviews for their proximity to the river and beauty, though GS1 suffered from noisy neighbors in one instance. Site 003 was reviewed as spacious with good river...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews or official information.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviews do not offer detailed commentary on pet-specific experiences. One user noted seeing only their own dog at the campground.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025