Marzinski Horse Camp Boondocking in Manistee, MI
Premier Off-Grid Camping Experience
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| 1001-1999 Marzinski Road Manistee, MI 44.225747, -86.161859 Elevation: 732′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service 231-723-2211 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Marzinski Horse Camp Boondocking: This free campsite is located within the Huron-Manistee National Forest’s Manistee Ranger District. Marzinski Horse CG is open May-Sep. Stayed 5 nights over labor day weekend. It was great! Very peaceful. Large sites and clean. However the water there is not for drinking, it states on their sign that you must bring your own water in. It is also only about 15 minutes from town so another plus!
About This Location
Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking location in Manistee, Michigan, sits tucked away near the Huron-Manistee National Forests. You’ll find free primitive campsites here, with enough space for horse trailers and RVs—perfect if you’re after simple camping and a real dose of nature. The campground mainly attracts horse lovers, but honestly, it’s just as good for anyone who craves a remote spot without all the usual bells and whistles.
There are about 21 campsites, most with hitching posts, and around 20 miles of marked horse trails. The dirt roads leading in usually behave themselves, so trucks and trailers get in without much fuss. Whether you’re coming to ride, hike, or just escape for a bit, this place keeps things peaceful and low-key, and it’s only a short drive from Manistee.
Key Takeaways
- Free, first-come, first-served primitive sites
- Horse trails and space for horse trailers
- Easy vehicle access, with room for RVs and campers
Marzinski Horse Camp Boondocking In Manistee, MI
At the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking location, you’ll land in a quiet, woodsy spot inside the Manistee National Forest. It’s a great choice for boondocking—especially if you’re into horseback riding. The sites are wide enough for horse trailers, and there are spots to tie up your horses.
It’s not far from Manistee itself—just a quick drive east. The access roads are dirt, but they’re usually in decent shape. Most campsites are first-come, first-served, though a few might need reservations between mid-May and mid-September.
With about 21 sites, and a focus on horse riders, you won’t find the crowds you’d see at more developed campgrounds. Evenings stay pretty quiet, with the forest and trails all around.
There aren’t any hookups or running water, so you’ll need to bring your own supplies. If you’re after a spot that lets you really experience the outdoors—without all the usual campground stuff—this is the place.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Manistee National Forest, MI |
| Distance from Manistee | About 15 minutes east |
| Number of sites | 21 (mostly first-come, first-served) |
| Facilities | Hitching posts, spacious sites |
| Season | Open May 15 – September 12 |
| Road to camp | Dirt road, generally good condition |
If you want to camp with horses or just soak up some quiet forest time, Marzinski fits the bill.
Things To Do
You’ll have about 18 miles of horse trails to wander—flat terrain, a mix of hardwood and pine. These are great for horseback riding, but hikers will like them too.
The Manistee River and Pere Marquette River are nearby, both solid picks for fishing. Prefer paddling? Those rivers and Hodenpyl Dam Pond offer slow, scenic water—good for canoes or kayaks.
If you’re itching for a swim or just want to laze by the water, the Swimming Beach or Hodenpyl Dam Pond are close enough for a quick trip. Both spots are calm and good for relaxing.
Picnic spots pop up all around the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking location. Bring your own food, pick a spot near the trails or river, and just enjoy the fresh air.
You can park your rig or trailer in open fields or under the trees, with easy trail access for all these outdoor activities.
Activity Summary:
| Activity | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Horse Riding | Marzinski Horse Trail | 18 miles of mostly flat trails |
| Fishing | Manistee & Pere Marquette Rivers | Good spots for various fish |
| Canoeing/Kayaking | Rivers and Hodenpyl Dam Pond | Calm water for paddling |
| Hiking | Horse Trails & Forest Paths | Varied scenery |
| Swimming | Swimming Beach | Nearby area for water recreation |
| Picnicking | Throughout campground area | Quiet natural locations |
There’s plenty to do at the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking location—if you’re into the outdoors, you won’t get bored.
Directions
To get to the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking location, start from Wellston, Michigan. Head east on M-55 for about 8 miles—it’s a straightforward, well-marked road.
After that, turn left onto Marzinski Road. This heads you south straight to the campground. The dirt road holds up pretty well, so most vehicles can handle it.
Stay on Marzinski Road until you spot the campground entrance. There are 21 campsites, and they’re first-come, first-served. If you’re coming during a busy stretch, arriving early is smart.
It’s about 15 minutes east of Manistee, right inside the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Using GPS or a map app makes things easier—no shame in that.
Quick checklist:
- Start in Wellston, MI
- Drive east on M-55 for 8 miles
- Turn left on Marzinski Road
- Follow the gravel road south to the campground
- Try to arrive early for the best spot
That’s all you need to find the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking site. Parking and camping are both free, and the setup is pretty straightforward.
Vehicle Access
You’ll get to Marzinski Horse Camp via a dirt road that’s usually in good shape. It’s only about 15 minutes east of Manistee, so it’s not out in the middle of nowhere.
The trailhead parking is a bit tight—maybe space for six vehicles tops. The campground itself has more room, with 19 to 21 sites, some pull-throughs included. Everything is first-come, first-served.
The area is mostly flat, with a mix of hardwood and pines. Since the roads are unpaved, take it easy—especially if it’s been raining. No one wants to get stuck out here.
Quick summary:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Road Type | Dirt road, good condition |
| Distance from Manistee | About 15 minutes |
| Trailhead Parking Capacity | 6 vehicles |
| Campground Sites | 19-21 sites, pull-through available |
| Terrain | Mostly flat, mixed forest |
It’s worth checking road conditions before you head out, especially if the weather’s been rough. Better safe than sorry.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
At the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking site, you’re looking at rustic camping sites—no hookups for water, electricity, or sewage. You’ll need to show up fully self-sufficient.
There are 21 sites with dirt pads. Most are big enough for camping trailers and RVs, up to about 31 feet. But again, don’t expect electric or water service for your rig.
Parking is limited but usually enough for both trailers and trucks. Near the Marzinski Horse Trailhead, you can fit about six vehicles, while the campground itself can squeeze in up to 36.
This is mostly dispersed camping, so things feel more natural and less built-up. You’ll find pit toilets and drinking water, but there aren’t any showers or dump stations.
The place is built with horse folks in mind—plenty of hitching posts and space for trailers. If you’re bringing horses, you’ll be set, and you won’t have to give up the basics.
The campground opens seasonally, from May through November. It’s smart to plan ahead—weather or forest rules can sometimes limit access outside those months.
Paid Or Permit Sites
At the Marzinski Horse Camp boondocking location, you won’t find any paid or permit-required campsites. All 21 sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and they’re free—pretty refreshing if you ask me, especially if you just want a straightforward, no-cost spot to camp with your horses.
Nobody needs a wood permit here to cut firewood for a campfire on National Forest System lands. But keep in mind, there are no RV hook-ups—no water, sewage, or electricity. So, if you’re coming with an RV, best to prep for a more rustic experience.
If you’re looking to camp outside Marzinski in the Huron-Manistee National Forests, you can disperse camp without paying fees or grabbing permits. Lots of free camping options out there, though you’ll want to stick to all the usual forest rules.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fee or permit required? | No |
| Campsites | 21, first-come, first-served |
| Campfire wood permits | Not required |
| RV hook-ups available? | No |
Definitely check local forest rules and updates before you head out, just in case something’s changed. But for now, Marzinski is about as easy and free as it gets for horse riders.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water Restrooms |
RV Camping Tent Camping Wildlife Viewing Stargazing |
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