The Huron National Forest, located in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, is a stunning natural retreat established in 1909 as the logging era began to wane. Rich in history and natural beauty, this forest offers a glimpse into the region's ecological restoration efforts. In 1945, it was administratively united with the Manistee National Forest to form the Huron Manistee National Forest, creating a vast expanse of protected land for outdoor enthusiasts.
Huron-Manistee National Forest RV camping offers plenty of options for nature enthusiasts, each providing a unique outdoor experience. Cadillac Woods Campground is a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway with easy access to forest trails. For family-friendly adventures, Sunrise Lake Family Campground offers scenic lakeside camping with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and fun activities for all ages. The Marzinski Horse Trail and Campground offer equestrians a dedicated space to camp and explore scenic horseback riding trails within the serene landscapes of Huron-Manistee National Forest. Meanwhile, Twinwood Lake Campground immerses visitors in a rustic forest atmosphere, offering a serene escape with access to nearby hiking trails and abundant wildlife. Visitors can rent RVs online in RVShare and enjoy comfortable camping near Huron Manistee National Forest.
Camping in Huron-Manistee National Forest
Whether you camp within the forest or at nearby private campgrounds, you'll find options to suit every budget for camping near Huron Manistee National Forest.
Campgrounds in Huron Manistee National Forest
Private Campgrounds Near Huron Manistee National Forest
Situated in Michigan, these private campgrounds combine convenience and close access to the natural beauty of Huron Manistee National Forest RV camping. Perfect for families and solo adventurers, they offer various amenities to make your outdoor stay enjoyable and comfortable.
Budget-friendly Campgrounds
Huron-Manistee National Forest Hiking Trails
Explore the diverse hiking trails of Huron Manistee National Forest, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. These trails wind through scenic landscapes, offering something for hikers of all skill levels.
Easy Hikes for Beginners
Challenging Trails for Hikers
North Country Trail: Manistee River Section
Distance: 19.8 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Silver Creek Pathway
Distance: 4.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Manistee River Trail: Seaton Creek to Red Bridge
Distance: 11.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Little Muskegon River Trail
Distance: 3.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Hungerford Lake Recreation Area Trails
Distance: 50 miles
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Lakeside Trails
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North Country Trail: Manistee River Section
North Country Trail: Manistee River Section is an in-and-out trail that is located in Wellston, MI. The trail travels next to the Manistee River for part of the way on the lower trail. There is a bench at the three-mile point.
Length: 19.8 miles
Intensity: Difficult
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Silver Creek Pathway
Silver Creek Pathway is an in-and-out trail that is located in Luther, MI. The trail is next to Pine River and is a well-marked pathway. You will see old-growth forests and bluffs on the way to the river. Part of the trail is a multi-use trail for the use of ATVs and mountain bikes.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Manistee River Trail: Seaton Creek to Red Bridge
Manistee River Trail: Seaton Creek to Red Bridge is an in-and-out trail that is located in Mesick, MI. This section of the Manistee River Trail features lots of changes in terrain and elevation and is a winding path.
Length: 11.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Little Muskegon River Trail
Little Muskegon River Trail is a loop trail that is located in Newaygo, MI. The trail is fairly well-marked on the first section before the actual loop, but the loop is not marked and can be difficult to find. There are many different species of birds by the river.
Length: 3.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Hungerford Lake Recreation Area Trails
Hungerford Lake Recreation Area Trails is a system of trails located in the Hungerford Lake Recreation Area in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. These trails can be used for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. There are 40 miles of horse trails and 10 miles of mountain biking trails. The horse and mountain bike connector trails are located in the campground.
Length: 50 miles
Intensity: Easy to Moderate
Activities in Huron-Manistee National Forest
Camping at Huron Manistee National Forest offers a wealth of opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Flora and Fauna Exploration
Discover over 238 species of plants in the unique wildflower sanctuary at Loda Lake. The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including over 200 species of animals and 400 bird species.
Fishing
The Huron-Manistee National Forest is a prime fishing destination, offering opportunities to catch brook, rainbow, brown trout, steelhead, and salmon. Ice fishing is also popular during the winter months.
Hiking
The forest offers over 330 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Along these multi-use trails, you can enjoy scenic vistas and diverse landscapes.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a fun and interactive way to explore the forest, uncovering hidden treasures as you navigate the vast wilderness. It’s an exciting way to experience the beauty of Huron-Manistee National Forest.
Stargazing
The Huron-Manistee National Forest offers outstanding stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. You can experience the night sky in its purest form throughout the year.
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Identifying Flora and Fauna
Visitors can take the trail around Loda Lake to the "Witness the Wonder of Wildflowers" preserve and see over 238 species of plants inside the only designated wildflower sanctuary in the National Forest Service. The forest contains hardwoods, red and white pine, and aspen.
There are multiple opportunities to view wildlife in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. There are over 200 species of animals, including squirrels, rabbits, cougars, wolves, moose, bats, coyotes, and black bears. There are more than 400 species of birds.
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Fishing
Fishing and ice fishing for trout is a popular activity inside the Huron-Manistee National Forest. You will find brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, steelhead, and salmon.
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Hiking
There are more than 330 miles of trails in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. Many of these trails are multi-use, and you can hike, mountain bike, ride horses, snow ski, and ski cross-country on these types of trails.
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Geocaching
All national forests allow geocaching inside their preserves. This is a fun pastime that can help you explore Huron-Manistee National Forest.
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Stargazing
The Huron-Manistee National Forest has minimal light pollution. This means that visitors can enjoy exceptional star-gazing year-round.
How to get to Huron-Manistee National Forest
Address: 1755 S. Mitchell St., Cadillac, MI 49601
Fee: Entry fee $0
By Car
From Detroit (South): Take I-75 North to exit 202 for M-55 West toward Manistee. Follow M-55 to reach the western entrance of the Huron Manistee National Forest. Alternatively, take I-96 West toward Ludington, then follow US-10 to get closer to the northern sections of the forest. This drive typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours.
From Grand Rapids (West): Take US-131 North toward Cadillac, then follow M-115 West or US-10 West to enter the forest. Both routes lead to popular sites for camping near Huron Manistee National Forest and trailheads in the northern parts of the forest. The drive from Grand Rapids to the forest takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
From Traverse City (Northwest): Take US-31 South toward Manistee and follow M-55 East into the forest. This route will take you closer to the southern sections of the Huron-Manistee National Forest. The drive from Traverse City to the forest typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Air
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW): This is the largest airport in Michigan, located about 180 miles south of the forest. After arriving at DTW, you can rent a car and drive to Huron-Manistee National Forest, which typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR): Located approximately 120 miles west of the forest, this airport is a convenient entry point for those flying in from other parts of the country. The drive to the national forest takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC): Situated about 75 miles north of Huron-Manistee National Forest, this regional airport is a great option for those flying in from nearby cities. The drive from Traverse City to the forest takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Manistee Blacker Airport (MBL): If you're flying into a smaller airport closer to the forest, you can use Manistee Blacker Airport, about 15 miles from the forest's southern section. It offers limited commercial flights and private aviation services. The drive from the airport to the forest takes around 30 minutes.
Seasonal Restrictions
Seasonal Restrictions: Huron-Manistee National Forest experiences seasonal restrictions to protect its natural resources and ensure the safety of visitors. During winter, certain roads and trails may be closed due to snow and ice, limiting access to some areas. Some campgrounds are also closed during the off-season, typically from late fall to early spring, when services such as water, restrooms, and waste disposal are unavailable. Additionally, specific areas may restrict hunting, fishing, and wildlife activities during certain times of the year to preserve local populations and habitats. It’s important to check for any seasonal updates or advisories before visiting, especially regarding trail conditions, weather-related closures, and the availability of campgrounds and facilities.
Fees in Huron Manistee National Forest
To access the Huron-Manistee National Forest, visitors must purchase a standard National Recreation Area Pass, which costs$5 per day or $15 for a weekly pass. This pass provides access to all day-use areas within the forest, including hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and picnic sites. Passes can be purchased online or at designated ranger stations within the forest. The pass should be visibly displayed on the vehicle dashboard. While the standard pass covers general access, camping, boating on the Pere Marquette River, or horseback riding may require additional permits and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Huron-Manistee National Forest
What is the closest town to Huron-Manistee National Forest?
One of the closest towns to Huron-Manistee National Forest is Brethren, MI. There are restaurants, stores, and campgrounds in the town so campers can stock up or grab a bite to eat.
What type of wildlife lives in Huron-Manistee National Forest?
Wildlife in Huron-Manistee National Forest includes white-tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, porcupines, woodpeckers, foxes, and bears. There is also a variety of songbirds, fish, and small animals in the forest.
Is Huron-Manistee National Forest open all year round?
Yes, the Huron-Manistee National Forest is open all year-round. Some areas may be inaccessible in winter due to snow, but there is hiking, snowshoeing, biking, and other outdoor activities throughout the year.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Huron-Manistee National Forest?
Yes, you do need a permit to hunt in Huron-Manistee National Forest. If you are 17 years or older, you need a fishing permit to fish within the forest as well.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Huron-Manistee National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Huron-Manistee National Forest. Dispersed campers may camp for up to 14 days at one location and up to 28 days per year in the forest. Developed campgrounds have limits as well, and campers will need to check with the individual campground to see what those are.
