Tippy Dam Recreation Area is located on Manistee River and the upstream, dammed portion of the river, known as Tippy Dam backwaters. At the park, you'll find a rustic campground that is open all year, trails, paddling opportunities, a rustic cabin and more.
Just below the dam lies one of the finest trout, steelhead and salmon fishing areas in Michigan. During the fall, anglers line the banks shoulder to shoulder trying to catch Chinook salmon. The record was a 47-pound catch.
There is an accessible fishing pier located on the Manistee River by the parking lot.
There are two boat launches in the park, including one on the Manistee River and one on the upstream dammed portion of the river, known as Tippy Dam backwaters.
A food concession is in the parking lot near the river during the fall months.
A fish-cleaning station is located near the parking lot by the river.
The park is home to world-class fishing along the Manistee River and the upstream, dammed portion of the river, known as Tippy Dam backwaters. In particular, salmon fishing is popular in the fall, and steelhead and sturgeon fishing are popular in the spring. Many other species can be found in both the river and lake.
There are several local canoe and kayak liveries that launch from the park.
Paddling is popular on the Manistee River and upstream, dammed portion of the river, known as Tippy Dam backwaters.
The picnic area is in the day-use area overlooking Tippy Dam's backwaters. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are available first come, first served.
The park is set along the Manistee River and the upstream, dammed portion of the river, known as Tippy Dam backwaters.
Most sites are generous in size and are shaded by hardwoods and within close proximity to the dammed portion of the Manistee River, known as Tippy Dam backwaters. There is a viewing from the campground overlooking the water. Recycling is available.
The rustic campground does not offer electrical in the sites.
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The cabin is in the rustic campground and overlooks the dammed portion of the Manistee River, known as Tippy Dam backwaters. Each cabin sleeps up to six people and is equipped with bunk beds, solar-powered lighting (weather dependent), a propane heating stove, table/chair and fire circle. There is no running water or electricity, but a hand pump is nearby. A vault toilet is located nearby.
You must provide your own cookware, linens and towels.
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While there aren't any upcoming park events listed at this time, you can check out the DNR's calendar of events.
The park also offers weekly nature programs not listed in the online calendar.
