Indian River Campground in Manistique, MI
Scenic Camping and Outdoor Activities
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| 5350 MI 94 Manistique, MI 46.154804, -86.403829 Elevation: 709′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service This is a PAY campground. ($12 or less) The price is $12/night 906-428-5800 |
Previous Reviews:
Indian River Campground in Manistique: Indian River is open May-Oct. This free campsite is located within the Hiawatha National Forest’s Manistique Ranger District.
About This Location
Indian River Campground in Manistique, MI gives you a quiet place to camp, tucked among dense forest and flat terrain. The campground sits on a bluff that overlooks the Indian River, with a short trail down to the water. It’s a solid spot for folks who want to get close to the river and nature, but also want the comfort of being near a main road.
We like how the campground blends peaceful surroundings with convenience. It’s just a quick drive from Manistique and right off State Highway M-94, so getting there with a car or RV is no hassle. Whether you’re just passing through or settling in for a longer stay, the mix of wooded privacy and river views really makes it feel like an escape—without leaving civilization too far behind.
The Indian River Campground in Manistique keeps things simple, which is kind of the point. The sites are well-spaced, surrounded by trees, and perfect for anyone craving a quiet camping trip, a walk in the woods, or a chance to hang out by the river.
Key Takeways
- Peaceful, wooded sites with river views
- Easy access from the highway, works for most vehicles
- Natural setting just outside Manistique, MI
Indian River Campground in Manistique, MI
Indian River Campground sits up on a bluff, looking out over the Indian River. You get easy access to the water and plenty of quiet, thanks to the thick forest all around.
The land’s mostly flat, which makes walking around or setting up camp a breeze. There’s a short trail down to the river—great for exploring or casting a line.
Canoeists will appreciate how close the campground is to the middle of the Indian River Canoe Trail. Paddling here means calm water, pretty scenery, and not much boat traffic.
Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find at the Indian River Campground:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Manistique, Michigan, in Hiawatha National Forest |
| Terrain | Flat ground, dense forest |
| River Access | Short trail to Indian River |
| Activities | Canoeing, fishing, hiking |
| Setting | Quiet, natural, with river bluff views |
Things to Do
There’s no shortage of outdoor stuff to do at Indian River Campground. Fishing’s big here, with easy river access and a handful of nearby lakes. Bring your own boat and use the ramp for quick water access.
A short trail heads down to the river, and if you want to stretch your legs, longer hikes wind through the woods and along the shorelines.
Swimming? Head over to Indian Lake State Park—there’s a swim beach there, perfect for cooling off after a day outside. Picnics are easy too, with picnic areas and historic shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Canoeing gives you a different view of the river, and it’s a good way to spot wildlife if you’re patient.
Winter flips the script: the area opens up for snowmobiling, and the nearby trails get maintained for riders. It’s a fun way to check out the landscape when it’s all snowy and quiet.
If you want a quick side trip, Kitch-Iti-Kipi (The Big Spring) is close by and worth a look—crystal clear water and a unique vibe.
Directions
To get to Indian River Campground in Manistique, MI, start by finding Manistique. Coming from downtown, just go north on State Route M-94 for a little under 20 miles.
If you’re in Shingleton, take M-94 south for about 14.6 miles—the campground will be on your right.
From Munising, head east to the M-28 and M-94 intersection in Shingleton, then turn right and drive south on M-94 for about 14.2 miles. The campground pops up on your right.
The Indian River Campground is close to the Manistique River, so you can check out the river area before or after you get settled.
Here’s a quick summary:
| Starting Point | Route | Distance on M-94 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manistique | North on M-94 | ~20 miles | Campground on right |
| Shingleton | South on M-94 | 14.2 – 14.6 miles | Campground on right |
| Munising | East to M-28 & M-94 | Then south 14.2 miles | Follow Shingleton route |
Vehicle Access
Getting to Indian River Campground by car is straightforward. If you’re coming from Shingleton, drive south on M-94 for about 14 miles from the intersection with M-28. The road’s in good shape, and the drive is easy.
The campground works for all sorts of vehicles, including RVs. Plenty of the RV sites have drive-through access, so parking and turning around isn’t a headache, even if you’ve got a big rig.
Parking’s free for guests at the Indian River Campground in Manistique, and there’s enough space for cars, trucks, and trailers. You’ll find full hookups for electricity, water, and sewer at the RV sites, which makes longer stays a lot more comfortable.
Since we’re in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the roads are usually quiet—sometimes eerily so. Just a heads up: keep an eye on the weather or road conditions, especially in winter.
RV and Camping Trailer Information
Indian River Campground has sites that fit a range of RVs and trailers. The spaces are roomy, with mature trees for shade—helps keep things cool and feels more private.
Most spots are flat, so parking and leveling your RV or trailer isn’t a struggle. Trailers and RVs up to about 35 feet fit just fine, with enough room to maneuver.
You’ll get electric hookups at many sites, but not every spot has water. Bringing extra water is smart. Dump stations are close by for convenience.
Being right off State Highway M-94 makes getting in and out with a larger RV pretty painless.
When you’re planning your stay, keep these in mind:
- Max RV length: 35 feet
- Flat, wooded sites
- Electric hookups available
- Not all sites have water hookups
- Close to dump station
If you’re coming in the busy season, it’s a good idea to reserve ahead. That way, you know your RV or trailer will fit in one of the quieter, more private sites.
Paid or Permit Sites
At Indian River Campground in the Hiawatha National Forest, you’ll find that most campsites ask for a fee or permit. Standard non-electric sites run about $22 a night, while larger group or double sites (for two camping units) hit closer to $44.
They take federal recreation passes here—like the Golden Age or America the Beautiful Pass—which can knock down your camping costs if you visit often. That’s a nice perk, especially for folks who make this a regular getaway.
Nearby, Indian Lake State Park and Palms Book State Park both have paid camping too, but honestly, Indian River Campground just feels different. The forested, flat terrain and how close you are to Indian Lake really set it apart. There’s this sweet spot between nature and a little bit of comfort that keeps us coming back.
Heads up: Jack Pine Lodge and Lake Superior State Forest might have their own fee setups or require different permits. And while Seney National Wildlife Refuge is just down the road, it’s focused on wildlife viewing, not camping—so don’t count on pitching a tent there.
If you’re planning a trip during the busy season, better jump on reservations early. Campsites fill up fast, and paying ahead or having your permits sorted out makes everything way easier.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water Restrooms |
RV Camping Tent Camping Fishing Hiking Canoeing Wildlife Viewing |
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