Lake Michigan At Manistee
4.57163 reviewsLOWER PENNISULA, MI, USA
Lake Michigan At Manistee
$40.00 - $115.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type and occupancy. Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are available for $40/night during peak season. Group sites range from $55/night for up to 25 occupants to $115/night for 26-50 occupants.
About this campground
Nestled in the embrace of towering hardwoods just moments from Lake Michigan's pristine shoreline, Lake Michigan Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the perfect blend of forest serenity and beachfront adventure. Each wooded campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and pedestal grills, while modern amenities including flush toilets, vault facilities, and a children's playground ensure comfort for the whole family. During summer evenings, gather at the amphitheater where naturalists share captivating stories of the forest's secrets and the lake's ancient history. Whether you're planning an intimate getaway or organizing a group retreat, miles of interconnected hiking and biking trails await your exploration, weaving through the dunes and forests that make this corner of Michigan truly magical.
The campground supports various camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites. Primitive camping is also available.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the magnificent Huron-Manistee National Forests, a carefully preserved ecosystem that serves as a living testament to Michigan's natural heritage. This protected landscape plays a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the Great Lakes region, sheltering countless species and preserving pristine watersheds for future generations to cherish.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives like a gentle friend here, bringing warm days that hover pleasantly between 70-80°F—perfect for swimming, hiking, and stargazing around the campfire. As autumn paints the hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons, the crowds thin out, offering peaceful solitude and crisp air ideal for trail adventures. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, while spring awakens the forest floor with wildflowers and migrating birds. Each season unveils its own treasures, though savvy campers know that shoulder seasons offer the sweet spot of comfortable temperatures and tranquil surroundings.
ElevationThe gentle, rolling terrain creates an accessible camping experience for adventurers of all abilities, with subtle changes in elevation that add interest to every trail without overwhelming beginners.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the whisper of waves meeting sandy shores and the rustle of leaves in ancient hardwood canopies. The campground serves as your gateway to a stunning tapestry of natural wonders—from sun-warmed beaches perfect for afternoon picnics to towering dunes that offer panoramic views of endless blue horizons. Just beyond, the legendary Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area beckons with its wild beauty, where windswept dunes give way to secluded coves and trails that seem to lead straight into paintings. This is where forest meets freshwater sea, creating an ever-changing landscape of shadows, light, and natural splendor.
Geological RegionPerched along the eastern shores of mighty Lake Michigan, where Porter Creek winds its way to the inland sea, this campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads. The surrounding wetlands stretch like green fingers across Michigan's Lower Peninsula, creating vital corridors for wildlife within the vast million-acre tapestry of the Huron-Manistee National Forests. This unique position, where ancient glacial forces carved out both the Great Lake and the rolling forestlands, offers campers a front-row seat to some of North America's most dramatic geological storytelling.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include large campsites spaced apart for privacy and nearby trail access to Lake Michigan beach. However, some users reported difficulties navigating sand dunes and inclines.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, offering privacy and ample room for tents or RVs. One reviewer stated, "The sites are big and you're not just a few feet from your neighbors like the State Parks."
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers privacy with campsites separated by trees or woods. "One of the best campgrounds I have ever been to. The campsites here are big with pretty good tree cover and also the campsites are separated by trees, which gives you a private campground feel," shared a user.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers recommend selecting isolated sites for privacy or those closer to flush toilets and the beach.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated campsites include 039 in Orchid Loop and 061 in Oak Loop for privacy and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Up to 16 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per group site is 50.
Groups
Group campsites can accommodate a maximum of 50 guests and are tent-only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of four loops (Oak, Orchid, Hemlock, and one unnamed loop). Loops vary in amenities and level of privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9 to October 12 annually. Reservations are available from June 23 to October 12 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground offers first-come, first-serve sites in addition to reservable sites. Availability may vary based on demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of arrival. Late cancellations may incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use 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
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Michigan at Manistee offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and bird watching. The Arrowhead Trail leads campers between the campground and the beach, while the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area provides extensive hiking opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant, including the Arrowhead Trail and trails in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Trails are described as scenic yet sometimes poorly marked. "The trails were beautiful, views were terrific, but trails were not well marked," said one reviewer.Fishing
Trout fishing in Lake Michigan is popular among campers. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.Swimming
Swimming is available at the sandy beach along Lake Michigan. One reviewer praised: "The beach is gorgeous here - clean, white sand with small pebbles in the surf and just the right amount of waves for small children."Biking
Bike trails in the area are suitable for various skill levels. "The bike trails are great for everyone," according to one user.Boating
Kayaking is mentioned as a recreational activity, but further details about boating facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Bird enthusiasts may spot species like the piping plover and prairie warbler. Wildlife like deer is commonly seen in the area.Beach activities
The beach is described as clean and scenic, with activities like sunbathing and swimming. "The beach was beautiful and clean, with sand stretching for what seems like miles," shared one camper.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are offered at the amphitheater during the peak season, but specific topics covered are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking is noted as a water sport, but detailed information on other activities like canoeing or paddleboarding is not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted to designated pits. No firewood from outside the area is permitted due to invasive species concerns.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife like raccoons and bears. Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially in wooded areas. Visitors are advised to store food securely.
Active alertsNo active alerts for closures, but beach erosion and lack of ranger enforcement may impact experiences.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Nearest emergency services are available in Manistee, MI, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 to October 12 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, and campers are provided with means to hang trash to keep critters away. Recycling information is not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Lake Michigan, with Porter Creek flowing nearby. The beach is a short walk from most campsites.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include non-enforcement of rules (loud parties, barking dogs), lack of showers, and insufficient maintenance of facilities.
HostCampground hosts are available and sell firewood and ice. Mixed reviews regarding host behavior.
Campground Map
LOWER PENNISULA, MI, USA
Driving directionsFrom the north, take US-31 south 10 miles from its junction with M-55 in Manistee, then right on Forest Trail Road (FS 5629) for 8 miles to the site. From the south, take US-31 north 11.5 miles from its junction with US-10 at Scottville, then left onto Forest Trail Road (FS 5629) for 8 miles the site.
The campground is accessible via paved roads (US-31 and Forest Trail Road). The roads are suitable for standard vehicles. However, road conditions may vary seasonally, and caution is advised.Nearby places
Manistee (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Ludington (35 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Scottville (11.5 miles, approximately 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in nearby Manistee (15 miles away). Specific stores or gas stations are not listed.
Camper Reviews
4.6
163 reviews
Lake Michigan At Manistee is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's spacious sites, proximity to the beach, and peaceful environment. However, issues like noise, lack of enforcement of rules, and occasional maintenance problems were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 163 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the large, private campsites, clean facilities, and easy access to Lake Michigan. "Beautiful campground with great access to trails and Lake Michigan beach," said one reviewer.
Based on 163 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from large groups and lack of rule enforcement are recurring complaints. "The campground doesn’t seem to be monitored and there was a loud party disturbing the entire campground," noted one...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray due to mosquitoes, filling water tanks before arriving, and preparing for no cell service. "WARNING: Fill your fresh water tank before arriving!" advised one user.
Based on 163 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate the campground is less crowded and more peaceful during the fall season, while summer experiences higher demand and noise levels. Winter usability is not addressed.
Based on 163 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The sites are big and you're not just a few feet from your neighbors like the State Parks." "Bird watchers delight in seeing unique species like the piping plover and prairie warbler." "The beach...
Based on 163 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 065 in Oak Loop is noted for privacy and spaciousness. Site 031 in Orchid Loop is described as large and close to the beach.
Based on 163 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility issues include navigating sand dunes, which may be challenging for older visitors. "It would be nice if there was a better way to the beach; the extreme climbing in the sand and...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and dogs are permitted on portions of the beach. However, some users reported issues with barking dogs disrupting the environment.
Based on 163 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025