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Goose Creek Trail Camp
Goose Creek Trail Camp
Located near the Upper Manistee River, this rustic campground is surrounded by tall jack pines. There is a large open group camping area designed for equestrian campers riding the Shore-to-Shore Trail, a 420-mile trail system open to hiking and horseback riding, that stretches east to west from Empire to Oscoda with two additional northern and southern spur trails.
This group campground has a maximum capacity of 200 individuals or 50 vehicles. The facility can accommodate both tents and trailers. Amenities include a submersible water pump that requires a 5000-watt generator. The campground is located 5.5 miles west of Frederic via County Road 612 and Manistee River Road.
This campground is maintained with the help of the Michigan Trail Riders Association.What to expect, finding a site
These rustic campgrounds offer stunning river and lakefront settings, perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling. Here's what you can expect:
- No reservations. Sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- There are vault toilets.
- Potable (drinking) water is available from a hand-pump well.
- No electrical available.
- Overnight fees ($20 for most sites) and registration procedures are posted at the information kiosk at each campground.
- Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay.
- One camping unit and six people are allowed per site.
Rates, dates and more
Recreation Passport required
A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds.
Operating dates and amenities
View state forest campground rates. operating dates & amenities
State forest campground info
Find more info on state forest campgrounds.
Amenities & activities
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At a glance
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Detailed view
Equestrian
Equestrian camping
Fishing
Group-use area
Hiking
Hunting
Paddling
Rustic sites
Vault toilet
Water access
Winter camping
Equestrian
Equestrian camping
Fishing
Brown, brook and rainbow trout are caught in the Manistee River. Another nearby fishing opportunity is Lake Margrethe (10 miles south).
Group-use area
Hiking
Hunting
This campground provides access to state land open to hunting. Firearm hunting is not allowed within 450 feet of an occupied dwelling.
Paddling
Explore the Manistee River from the campground. A small staircase provides carry-in access for paddle sports. We ask paddlers not to use the horse crossing area.
Rustic sites
Vault toilet
Water access
This rustic campground is located along/“adjacent” to the Manistee River. Please be mindful of high-water safety.
Winter camping
This rustic campground is open all year; however, the campground and seasonal roads are not plowed.
Area map
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Interactive map
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Printable PDF map