Lake Michigan Recreation Area/Campground

Huron-Manistee National Forest / Cadillac Manistee Ranger District

15 miles south of Manistee, Michigan, lies the Lake Michigan Campground on Porter Creek . The campground borders Lake Michigan to the west and Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area to the south. You'll find 10 miles of networked trails through the campground, to the beach and leading to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area to the south. According to Trails.com, "One of the best for children is a 2.4-mile hike that begins with the Arrowhead Trail and includes the first half of what used to be called the Michigan Trail." Go to getoffthecouch.info for a color-coded trail map of the campground. Some trails are multi-use.

1/2 of the 100 campsites may be reserved up to 6 months in advance of your arrival and at least 3 days ahead. 3 group overnight camping sites can accommodate up to 50 people each. All 3 group sites may be reserved up to 1 year in advance. The remaining 50 campsites are first-come-first-served. Each campground loop has a variety of tent-friendly and RV-friendly sites. There is good separation between sites and drinking water is provided in each camping loop.

A hardwood forest gives way to a beautiful sandy beach at the shores of the lake with a playground for younger campers. An amphitheater offers educational programs throughout the peak season. Other amenities include flush and vault toilets, beach access and an overlook deck.

Come join us for bird watching, trout fishing, biking, hiking and camping. See more campgrounds in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.