Seaton Creek Campground
4.5738 reviewsP.O. Box 69, Manistee, MI 49660, USA
Seaton Creek Campground
$30.00 - $80.00 / 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$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates are $30 for standard nonelectric sites and $80 for group tent-only sites. Fees do not include taxes or additional charges such as vehicle fees.
About this campground
Nestled where Seaton Creek meets the tranquil backwaters of Hodenpyl Dam Pond, Seaton Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness retreat along the Big Manistee River. This rustic haven beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its generous campsites tucked beneath towering trees, pristine facilities that blend seamlessly with nature, and immediate access to some of Michigan's most rewarding hiking trails. Here, the gentle murmur of creek waters and rustling leaves create nature's perfect soundtrack for your escape from the everyday.
Seaton Creek Campground is a rustic campground offering options for tent camping, RVs, and group camping. It is particularly noted for its spacious group sites and secluded family sites.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure places you in the shadow of Michigan history and natural wonder. Just miles from your tent lies Briar Hill, proudly standing as the second-highest peak in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. This proximity to such a significant landmark adds a sense of place and grandeur to your outdoor experience, connecting you to the ancient geological forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late April's first wildflowers through October's brilliant fall colors, Seaton Creek Campground welcomes adventurers during its peak season (April 25 - October 12). Summer brings warm, sun-dappled days perfect for creek exploration and lazy afternoons by the water. While occasional insects remind you you're truly in nature's domain, most visitors find the minor inconvenience a small price for such unspoiled beauty. Each season paints the landscape in new hues, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's fiery display.
ElevationThe campground's location near the majestic Briar Hill creates a landscape of rolling hills and dramatic elevation changes that will challenge your legs and reward your eyes. This varied terrain transforms simple walks into adventures, where each rise reveals new vistas and each valley holds its own secrets. The undulating topography creates diverse microclimates and habitats, making every exploration unique.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself awakening to a landscape where emerald hardwoods mingle with stately conifers, creating a living cathedral of green. The star of this natural theater is Seaton Creek itself, whose crystal-clear waters dance over ancient stones as they journey toward the Big Manistee River. Five miles east, the impressive Briar Hill rises like a gentle giant, while throughout the area, cold mountain streams harbor native trout in their shadowy pools. This is a place where every turn of the trail reveals another postcard-perfect scene.
Geological RegionSeaton Creek Campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where flowing waters have carved their story into the Michigan landscape. Perched at the confluence of Seaton Creek and the serene backwaters of Hodenpyl Dam Pond on the Big Manistee River, the campground showcases nature's artistry in its rolling hills blanketed with diverse forests. The proximity to Briar Hill—the Lower Peninsula's second-highest point just five miles east—speaks to the powerful geological forces that sculpted this terrain over millennia, creating today's dramatic elevations and the perfect habitat for both hardwood and conifer forests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets, picnic areas, trails, and walkways are available. However, some trails leading to water are steep and may not be accessible for all visitors.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and spacious, accommodating family and group camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer good separation and privacy, with some overlooking the creek and surrounded by trees.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSuggest reserving group sites for larger parties or selecting creek-view sites for scenic experiences. Check road conditions before travel.
Best CampsitesGroup site GR2 is noted for privacy and shade, while GR1 is more open and larger. Reviews recommend sites overlooking Seaton Creek.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Group sites accommodate larger parties
- standard sites may vary.
Groups
The campground has two group sites. Group Site 1 is larger and more open, while Group Site 2 is smaller and more shaded. Both sites are private and include picnic tables and group-friendly amenities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 17 family sites and 2 group sites arranged near a picnic area. Sites are spacious and rustic.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 25 - October 12. Closed for reservations outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityStandard sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with group sites requiring advance reservations. User reviews recommend arriving early as the campground can fill quickly on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the arrival date incur a $10 fee plus any reservation fees. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds for no-shows.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. It is particularly popular for its access to the Manistee River Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Hiking
There is a connector trail from the campground to the Manistee River Trail. The North Country National Scenic Trail can also be accessed by crossing a nearby suspension bridge. Reviews highlight the scenic beauty and the trails' proximity to the campground.Fishing
The surrounding waters offer excellent fishing opportunities for both panfish (perch, bluegill, crappie, sunfish) and game fish (trout, bass, pike, salmon).Boating
Kayaking is possible by traveling up the shallow Seaton Creek, and canoeing is recommended starting at the Hodenpyl Backwaters to explore the Big Manistee River.Wildlife viewing
The area features diverse wildlife. Visitors may observe various fish species in the streams and enjoy the natural surroundings.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed but may be influenced by the area's general weather conditions.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking are supported, though specifics about other non-motorized activities like paddleboarding are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood must be obtained locally to prevent invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention steep terrain leading to water access and erosion due to sandy trails. Buggy conditions are frequent in warm months.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services are in Mesick, 6 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25 - October 12
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground, contributing to its cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground adjoins Seaton Creek and is close to Hodenpyl Dam Pond and the Big Manistee River, offering fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsNoise from local parties and traffic on weekends is a recurring issue. Other complaints include steep trails to water features and buggy conditions.
HostFred, the campground host, is frequently praised for his helpfulness, maintaining clean facilities, and assisting campers.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 69, Manistee, MI 49660, USA
Driving directionsFrom the north: Follow M-37 south 6 miles from Mesick. Turn right on 26 Road (near Yuma) for 1.7 miles, then right on O'Rourke Drive for 1.3 miles, then right on Forest Road 5993 for 0.4 mile to the site. From the south: Take M-37 north 9 miles from its intersection with M-55. Turn left on 26 Road for 1.7 miles, then right on O'Rourke Drive for 1.3 miles, then right on Forest Road 5993 for 0.4 miles to the site.
Road access involves paved and forest roads, but user reviews mention that the road to the campground is rough and can be difficult to navigate, especially during poor weather conditions.Nearby places
Mesick - 6 miles north
Nearby supplies
Supplies including food, fuel, and camping gear can be purchased in Mesick, located 6 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
38 reviews
Seaton Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Seaton Creek Campground is generally well-received, with an average sentiment score of 4.56. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, friendly campground host, and proximity to hiking trails. However, some complaints include noisy weekends and limited water access.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained vault toilets, large and spacious campsites, friendly and helpful host (Fred), and excellent access to the Manistee River Trail and North Country Trail. The group sites are...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Visitors have noted issues such as loud parties on weekends, steep and poorly marked trails leading to water, and high fees for extra vehicles and firewood.
Based on 38 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early on weekends to secure a site, as it can be busy. Bring earplugs for noisy weekends, and plan for steep trails to water. Firewood is available on-site but may be cheaper from roadside...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are quieter and offer a more peaceful experience. Summer weekends can be noisy and crowded, with local parties being a common issue.
Based on 38 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campgrounds are nice, with good separation between sites.' - Jeff Dunn
2. 'The vault toilets were very clean, and the water pump worked great.' - Joe Modzski
3. 'If you're looking for peace...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Group Site 1 is described as larger and more open, while Group Site 2 is smaller, more shaded, and preferred by some visitors. Both sites are praised for their privacy and suitability for group...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground offers accessible vault toilets and trails, but steep paths to water may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground. Visitors with pets have not highlighted any specific issues or praises.
Based on 38 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025