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Old US 131 State Forest Campground
Old US 131 State Forest Campground
This rustic campground, nestled within a pine forest on the Manistee River, features 25 sites suitable for tents and small trailers, six of which are nestled in a large field adjacent to the river and North Country Trail. The intention is for these six sites to be used by river paddlers and through hikers on the North Country Trail.
It's a popular destination for hiking and backpacking because it connects to the North Country Trail and is part of the 21-mile Fife Lake Loop, connecting the campground to Spring Lake State Forest Campground. A kayak landing on the Manistee River provides easy access to the campground for paddle campers.
The campground is located 7 miles north of Manton via US-131 and Old US-131.
Amenities & activities
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At a glance
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Detailed view
Fishing
Group-use area
Hiking
Hunting
ORV trails or routes
Paddle-in campsite
Paddling
Rustic sites
Vault toilet
Walk-in campsites
Water access
Fishing
Brown trout, rainbow trout, bass, walleye and suckers are caught in the Manistee River.
Group-use area
Group camping is available in the walk-in campsite area of the campground.
Hiking
Hunting
This campground provides access to state land open to hunting. Firearm hunting is not allowed within 450 feet of an occupied dwelling.
ORV trails or routes
The operation of an ORV and snowmobile between the campground and nearby trails is allowed. Access is only available from the north.
Paddle-in campsite
There are six paddle- and/or hike-in sites that are accessible from the trail and river.
Paddling
The campground is accessible by water and provides excellent paddling along the Manistee River. Carry-in access is located within the campground.
Rustic sites
Vault toilet
Walk-in campsites
The campground has six walk- and/or paddle-in sites near the waters edge.
Water access
This rustic campground is located along the Manistee River.
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.
Area map
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.