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State forests

A sunlit area by the water in the Jordan River Valley

Michigan's state forests are open for all to enjoy!

Michigan's forests offer an abundance of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, camping, ORV riding, hunting and more. Our forests are carefully managed to provide a balance between recreation and conservation.

Enjoying your state forests

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Backcountry camping

Explore the wild and sleep under the stars with a backpacking or hike-in camping experience.

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Campfire safety

Make Smokey Bear proud - practice fire safety to protect forests and prevent wildfires.

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Fishing in state parks and forests

Don't let the big one get away - your latest fish tale begins in a state forest or park.

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Forage for wild foods

Gather up some wild flavor from the outdoors - find morel mushrooms, juicy berries and more!

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Forest roads

Explore thousands of miles of forest roads open to off-road vehicles. ORV licenses are required. 

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Hiking and biking trails

Set out on a scenic forest adventure - hike, bike, snowshoe, ski or horseback ride. 

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Hunting on state lands

Carry on a hunting tradition or begin one - the Mi-HUNT application shows public hunting lands.

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Michigan's forests

Learn about Michigan's trees and the importance of sustaining forests for today and for future generations. 

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State forest campgrounds

Find a getaway among the trees and camp out in a rustic state forest campground.

Explore state forests

Michigan forest tour map

A tour of Michigan's forests

Each point on this interactive map highlights a great recreational opportunity to enjoy in Michigan's forests.

Each location provides a description of the point of interest and driving directions to help you find your way.

Open the forest tour map
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Forest recreation map

For the locations of forest campgrounds, hiking trails and state forest lands, visit our forest recreation map. 

If you need assistance with the information on these maps, email DNR-GIS@Michigan.gov.

Open the forest recreation map

Pigeon River Country State Forest

The Pigeon River Country State Forest, a 109,000-acre undeveloped forest in northern lower Michigan, provides a unique backcountry experience offering an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Home to Michigan's elk herd, the Pigeon River Country State Forest offers unparalleled wildlife viewing, miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, camping, fishing, an interpretive center and more.

Explore "The Big Wild"