Huron Manistee NF Boondocking in Mesick, MI
Off-Grid Camping
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Address Mesick, MI 44.35144, -85.82059 Elevation: 853′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (Official) This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Huron Manistee NF Boondocking in Mesick: Absolutely nothing but trees. No water, not even fire pit although there are some man made fire pits out of rocks. It is wide and no trash when I was there. About 30 minute walk to Manistee river trailhead.
Come in to this site from the North where the dam and trail head is. Road is very rough coming in from the South. I ran into a ranger when I was walking back from the trail and he asked me “is that your site back there?” and I said yes and he went on so I can confirm it is approved.
About This Location
Boondocking in the Huron-Manistee National Forest near Mesick, MI, is a fantastic way to get out into nature without squeezing into packed campgrounds. You can camp for free in plenty of spots along the Manistee River Trail and beyond—it’s a budget-friendly pick for anyone who just wants to be outside. The forest is huge, so you’ve got options for finding a quiet place to set up.
Getting to this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick isn’t too tricky with most vehicles, and some even fit RVs or trailers, though you’ll want to be ready for a pretty rustic setup. There aren’t hookups or facilities at most sites, so a little extra planning goes a long way. If you really need more amenities, there are paid campgrounds not too far away.
The Huron-Manistee area is more than just a place to sleep. Hiking, fishing, and wandering the wild landscape are all part of the deal. Honestly, boondocking here is one of the best ways to really get a feel for Michigan’s outdoors.
Key Takeaways
- Free dispersed camping is available near Mesick along the Manistee River Trail.
- You can get in with cars and some RVs, but there aren’t any hookups.
- The area’s packed with outdoor activities—not just camping.
Huron Manistee NF Boondocking In Mesick, MI
You’ll find some great boondocking spots near Mesick, Michigan, right inside the Huron-Manistee National Forests. The whole place sprawls across nearly a million acres between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, so there’s no shortage of space for dispersed camping. This Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick doesn’t cost a thing and the Forest Service manages them.
Boondocking here means you’re camping without hookups or fancy facilities. Be ready for a bare-bones experience—no running water, no restrooms. Following Leave No Trace is a must. Nobody wants to find someone else’s trash out there.
The Manistee River Trail, just a few miles from Mesick, is a favorite for dispersed camping. Its location puts hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching right at your door. And if you’re craving some time by the water, the Lake Michigan Recreation Area isn’t far for swimming or paddling.
Here’s the gist:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Mesick, MI |
| Distance to Lake Michigan | About 20 miles west |
| Camping Type | Dispersed, no amenities |
| Accessibility | Roads vary; some are rough |
| Rules | No campfires in dry weather; pack out trash |
If you want a simple camping experience with a side of solitude, this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick delivers. The Great Lakes region’s natural beauty feels even better when you don’t have to elbow through crowds—or pay a cent.
Things To Do
There’s a lot to keep you busy in this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location near Mesick, MI. The Manistee River Trail is a solid pick for hiking, with some really nice views of bluffs and the river winding below. It hooks up with the North Country National Scenic Trail, which is great if you’re after a longer backpacking trek.
Fishing? Oh yeah, you’ll find perch, bass, pike, salmon, panfish, and crappie in the Manistee River and its little offshoots. The Hodenpyl Dam Pond is another chill spot to cast a line or just hang out by the water.
For paddlers, the Au Sable River and the Pine River are both good bets for canoeing or kayaking. These rivers are clear and mostly calm, so they’re beginner-friendly.
When it gets hot, you can swim in the rivers and ponds around here. A lot of spots have picnic tables too, so you can snack and relax right by the water.
Whether you’re hiking, fishing, paddling, or just flopped out on a blanket, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors at this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick.
Directions
If you’re heading to this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick, MI, start by taking M-37 south if you’re coming from up north. After about 6 miles, turn right onto 26 Road near Yuma.
Stay on 26 Road for 1.7 miles, then hang another right onto O’Rourke Drive. This’ll get you closer to the camping areas inside the Huron-Manistee National Forests.
If you want to camp near the Manistee River Trail, bring a map or use GPS. It’s roughly 6 miles from Mesick, but those forest roads can be a little confusing.
For trailheads like the North Country National Scenic Trail, the Marilla Trailhead is one northern access point. Directions change depending on where you’re starting, so it’s smart to double-check with a current map or the forest service.
Having a forest map or using the official forest service site before you head out is a good idea. Some of the roads are tight, and after rain, you might want a vehicle with a little extra clearance.
Need more info? You can call the Huron-Manistee National Forests office at +1 (231) 775-2421 for updates on road or trail conditions.
Vehicle Access
Most types of camping vehicles can get into this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick, MI. Regular cars, trucks, and RVs can tackle a lot of the forest roads to reach dispersed camping spots. Just keep in mind, not every road is paved or smooth.
A lot of the forest roads are gravel or dirt and can get pretty bumpy, especially after rain. It’s smart to check road conditions before you set out—especially if you’re hauling a big RV or a trailer. Off-road vehicles are allowed on certain trails, but don’t just go anywhere; stick to the marked ones.
If you’re into exploring with an off-road vehicle, there are rugged trails that’ll take you to quieter, more out-of-the-way campsites. You’ll need a vehicle built for it, though.
Some quick notes:
- Most forest roads are fine for cars and small RVs
- Off-road vehicles should stick to designated trails
- Check with the ranger station for current road conditions
- Parking for big rigs can be tight in some spots
Stick to marked roads and follow the rules to keep the forest in good shape. Vehicle access can really depend on the season and the weather, so don’t just wing it—plan ahead.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
If you’re rolling in with an RV or trailer in this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick, MI, just know you won’t find any RV hook-ups for water, sewage, or electric. You’ll need to bring your own water and rely on your batteries.
There are dispersed camping areas that allow RVs and trailers, but it’s a bare-bones experience—no flush toilets, no showers, just you and the woods.
A few developed campgrounds nearby—Seaton Creek Campground, Sand Lake Campground, and Peterson Bridge South Campground—offer some basic perks like drinking water, pit toilets, and sometimes beach access, but don’t expect full RV services.
When you’re picking a spot in this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location in Mesick, think about your trailer or RV size. Most dispersed sites on the Manistee River Trail fit smaller rigs or truck campers better than those big Class A monsters.
Bring enough fresh water and figure out where you can find campground showers or potable water if you’re staying a while. It’s a lot easier to plan ahead than to run out and scramble later.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RV Hook-ups | None | No electric, water, or sewage |
| Drinking Water | Some developed campgrounds | Bring extra for dispersed sites |
| Flush Toilets | Not common | Mostly pit toilets or vault toilets |
| Showers | Limited at select campgrounds | Not available at dispersed sites |
| Dispersed Camping | Allowed | No amenities, primitive sites |
| Beach Access | Near some campgrounds | Check specific locations |
Paid Or Permit Sites
In this Huron Manistee NF boondocking location near Mesick, some camping areas ask for a fee or permit. These sites usually give you a few more comforts—stuff like toilets, trash bins, and water access.
There’s a popular paid site right by the river, and trails kick off almost at your tent flap. That’s pretty handy if you’re itching to hike or get out on the water. We tend to pick these spots when we’re in the mood for a little extra convenience—sometimes roughing it just isn’t the vibe.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll typically get at paid or permit sites:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Toilets | Usually right on site |
| Trash Bins | Helps keep the place tidy |
| Water Access | Close to lakes or rivers |
| Trails | Start at or near your campsite |
If you want easier access to facilities or just like a more organized setup, a paid site might be the way to go. Fees bounce around a bit, so it’s smart to check the latest rates before you head out.
Some areas ask for permits, especially if you’re rolling in with a big group or eyeing special spots. We always call up the local ranger office to double-check what’s needed—nobody wants a surprise in the middle of their trip.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Rock fire pits | RV Camping Tent Camping Hiking Fishing Canoeing Kayaking Wildlife Viewing Stargazing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
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Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
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Leave No Trace
State Specific Information Links
Michigan Park Service
Michigan Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources