Upper Manistee River Boondocking in Brethren, MI – Remote Camping and Outdoor Adventure

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Upper Manistee River Boondocking in Brethren, MI
Remote Camping and Outdoor Adventure

Previous Reviews:

Upper Manistee River Boondocking: There are several great “free” disbursed campsites along the upper Manistee river road. Numbered signs are located beside the road pointing the way. Most sites have a direct view of the river and are true hidden gems! Following directions to Government landing Campground, which is a “free” campsite in the Huron Manistee national forest, until they start charging $10 per night in spring of 2019.

I stayed here in my van and had a wonderful time in mid September-perfect weather. There was someone staying nearby in a 30 foot Jayco camper, so you can get back there in something similar, but it can be tricky maneuvering through the trees. I would suggest walking from the main road first to check it out before you drive in if you have a bigger rig. These sites are primitive. The only amenities are a lantern post and fire ring, but the river views are spectacular and make up for it. These sites are great if you want to get away from it all and enjoy nature.

Further up the road is the red bridge river access area, which has 3 or 4 free campsites and a water faucet, but I warn you, the water taste like an iron pipe but is safe to drink if you can stomach it. Further still is the Hodenpyl dam and parking area for canoe put in, the great northern trail is nearby as well. This is a great area to camp and explore, I highly recommend it. I did not find these sites on the Forest service , but they are there. If you can find your way to red bridge or government landing you’ll find these sites.

About This Location

If you’re searching for a quiet place to camp near Brethren, MI, the Upper Manistee River boondocking really delivers some fantastic boondocking. The best part about boondocking here is that you can enjoy primitive camping along the river without the need for developed campgrounds, giving us a true backcountry experience. The scenery is lovely, and that constant hush of the river nearby? Hard to beat.

Most camping spots at Upper Manistee River boondocking are dispersed, so you can usually find a little nook that feels all your own. There are some designated campsites, but a lot of the camping is primitive, letting us get closer to nature. Just a heads up: some areas want permits or reservations during the busy season, so it pays to check before you roll out.

Getting to these Upper Manistee River boondocking sites isn’t complicated if you have a truck or SUV—though, honestly, some of the roads are a bit much for big RVs. People who’ve camped here talk about the quiet and the fishing, which seems to be a big draw for folks hoping to avoid big crowds and just get outside.

Key Takeways

• Primitive camping along the Upper Manistee River boondocking offers a peaceful backcountry experience.
• Access to sites varies; some require permits or reservations during peak seasons.
• The area is popular for fishing and quiet outdoor recreation.

Upper Manistee River Boondocking In Brethren, MI

Camping on the Upper Manistee River boondocking near Brethren, MI, is a solid way to unplug and soak up some real wilderness. Most of the spots are tucked in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, with a mix of hardwoods and conifers that make for a pretty relaxing backdrop. There are natural springs and clear tributaries around, which just add to the charm.

You’ll want to bring everything you need, since these primitive campsites don’t offer much. Water comes from the springs or the river if you have a filter, so that’s something to plan for. The red pine groves and thick woods give you plenty of shade and a bit of privacy.

The Big Manistee River and its backwaters are perfect for paddling, fishing, or watching wildlife. We do our best to follow the rules and respect the land, especially with how close you are to protected spots like the Pere Marquette National Scenic River and Pine River.

A lot of folks take day trips out to Lake Michigan Recreation Area, just to mix things up. That blend of river, forest, and lake is tough to find elsewhere. Planning ahead is always smart—keeps the place nice for everyone.

If you like things simple and natural, camping by the Upper Manistee River boondocking is a great fit.

Things To Do

Up here at the Upper Manistee River boondocking near Brethren, MI, there’s a lot to keep you busy outside. Fishing is a big draw—perch, crappie, sunfish, bass, pike, salmon, you name it, in the river and nearby lakes. We usually grab our gear and find a quiet spot along the bank for a laid-back day.

If you’re into water stuff, kayaking and canoeing are both solid options. The river has some calm stretches, so paddlers at any level can get out there. Exploring the river or nearby streams is a good way to take in the scenery. On hot days, swimming at the designated beaches is a treat.

There are trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The Shore-to-Shore Trail is a favorite, and there are bike paths winding through the woods. You’ll find overlooks and observation spots—sometimes we just stop and watch for wildlife for a while.

Picnic areas are scattered around too, with picnic tables and a nice view if you want to hang out after a hike. With the river, trails, and open spaces, you can pretty much pick whatever kind of outdoor fun you’re in the mood for.

Directions

To get to the Upper Manistee River boondocking area near Brethren, MI, start out heading east on M-55. After about 15 miles, hang a left onto High Bridge Road and keep going north for roughly 6 miles.

Then, take a right onto Coates Highway. This road will bring you closer to the river access points. The area near Bowman Bridge River Access is a go-to spot for launching canoes or setting up camp.

Coming from Lake Huron? Take M-55 west to get inland toward the Upper Manistee River boondocking. It’s a pretty direct route, and signs are decent, so finding the river and the campsites isn’t too tough.

For parking and launching, you’ll find a few river access sites. Bowman Bridge is a common choice, or you can use the nearby trails to get down to the water.

It’s smart to check maps or GPS before you leave, since some of these roads get narrow or a bit rough. Daylight travel makes things easier when you’re trying to find your spot.

Vehicle Access

Camping along the Upper Manistee River boondocking near Brethren, MI, usually means decent vehicle access, but it really depends on your campsite. Most sites are fine for off-road vehicles and trucks, especially if you stick close to trailheads or campgrounds.

The Mack Lake ORV Campground is a good starting point for ORV riders, with parking and easy access to trails. It’s handy if you want to explore without worrying about where to stash your vehicle.

Meadows ORV Campground is another solid choice nearby, especially for ATV and OHV folks. They’ve got designated parking, and you can roll right out onto the trails or down to the river.

Some backcountry campsites along the Manistee have space for only a couple of vehicles—usually up to two per spot. It’s important to stick to that, just to keep things safe and tidy for everyone.

Trail conditions are mixed. Some are paved or graveled, others are pretty rough and you’ll want high clearance or four-wheel drive. Checking local conditions before you head out can save you a headache.

Stick to marked ORV trails and only camp where it’s allowed. That’s how we keep the forest healthy and make sure everyone else can enjoy the trails too.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

If you’re camping with an RV or trailer near the Upper Manistee River boondocking in Brethren, MI, you’ve got a few choices. Seaton Creek Campground is one of the main spots that handles trailers, with pull-through sites that make it way less stressful to park a big rig.

Campgrounds like Gabions, Gleasons Landing, and Island Lake offer basics—picnic tables and fire rings—but not every site has drinking water, so bring some or call ahead to check.

Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas by the river and in the Upper Manistee River State Forest. These spots usually don’t have potable water or restrooms. The rules say to camp at least 200 feet from the river and keep your setup in one place for up to 16 days.

Rustic and primitive sites—like the Horse Camp or Marzinski Horse Trailhead Campground—are even more basic, but offer a quieter, less crowded experience. No hookups here, but that’s part of the charm.

Other campgrounds to look at: Monument, Nichols Lake South, Peterson Bridge South, Rollways, Round Lake, and Sand Lake. Each has different amenities and sizes, so it’s worth checking out what fits your needs.

Whatever you pick, following the rules about fires and packing out trash keeps the forest in good shape for everyone else who comes after.

Paid Or Permit Sites

When you’re boondocking along the Upper Manistee River near Brethren, MI, you’ll find that some areas ask for a permit or a small fee. In return, you get a few more comforts than at the free spots—think toilets or maybe even potable water.

Take the Upper Manistee River State Forest Campground, for instance. They’ve got about 30 sites, open to both tents and trailers, but you can only stay up to 15 days. You’ll usually find vault toilets and potable water there, which is honestly a relief after a few days in the woods.

Some government land campsites want you to grab a permit too. It’s smart to double-check before you set up camp, just to avoid any annoying fines. The amenities can be pretty barebones—sometimes there’s not much at all—but at least the land stays protected.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you might find at paid or permit-required sites:

Do yourself a favor and look up the site rules ahead of time. It’s not just about avoiding trouble—it’s about keeping these spots nice for everyone, now and down the road.

Helpful Boondocking Information Links:

Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace

State Specific Information Links

Michigan Park Service
Michigan Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources