Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground

Hello, Michigan outdoor enthusiasts! Are you yearning for a genuine, peaceful escape into the heart of Michigan's natural beauty, where the serene sounds of a flowing river replace the everyday noise? Look no further than Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground in Manton. This beloved rustic campground, managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), offers a timeless camping experience along the scenic Manistee River. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, cast a line, hike miles of trails, and create cherished memories under the vast Michigan sky. This article is your comprehensive guide to understanding why Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground is a highly recommended destination for locals seeking an authentic and tranquil outdoor adventure.

Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground embodies the spirit of traditional Michigan camping. It’s not about flashy amenities or bustling crowds; it's about connecting with nature in its purest form. Imagine waking up to a crisp morning, stepping out of your tent or small trailer to the view of the Manistee River, and spending your days fishing for trout or embarking on a leisurely paddle. As one satisfied camper noted, it’s a "great campground! Nice open clean sites with fire pits. River access from several different spots. One of which has a nice deck to enjoying a relaxing afternoon." Another highlighted the "very nice rustic feeling" and the cleanliness of the facilities, concluding, "Recommend this awesome campground to others as well!" While it's noted that sites can feel close when heavily trafficked, the overall consensus points to a beautiful and enjoyable experience. Our aim is to provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your next restorative getaway right here in Michigan.

Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground is ideally located at 6730 N 31 Rd, Manton, MI 49663, USA. This address places it approximately 12 miles northwest of Manton, accessible via M-42 and 31 Road. This strategic positioning in Wexford County puts it directly along the main branch of the scenic Manistee River, a renowned natural resource in Northern Michigan.

For Michigan residents, particularly those in the Lower Peninsula, Manton offers a manageable drive to a true "Up-North" rustic experience. The campground's location provides excellent access to the surrounding state forest lands, making it a gateway to vast recreational opportunities. Its proximity to the Manistee River is a major draw, offering direct access for fishing, paddling, and enjoying the water. Furthermore, a significant highlight of its location is its direct connection to the North Country Trail, a premier long-distance hiking trail that traverses Michigan and several other states. While tucked away in a natural setting, the campground remains accessible via well-maintained roads, making it a convenient destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far off the beaten path. It's a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility for a refreshing Michigan outdoor escape.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground offers 25 rustic campsites, suitable for both tents and small trailers (up to 40 feet max length at select sites). Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit, providing the essentials for a traditional camping experience.

• River Access Points: Baxter Bridge provides multiple access points to the Manistee River directly from the campground. This includes a small wooden deck behind site #3, perfect for relaxing by the water, and a larger grass landing ideal for launching canoes or kayaks. While there are stairs to navigate, these points make river activities highly convenient for campers.

• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets (outhouses) are available on-site, providing essential restroom facilities for campers. Reviewers consistently note their cleanliness.

• Hand Pump Water: Potable (drinking) water is accessible from a hand pump well. This traditional method of water collection adds to the rustic feel of the campground.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All campsites at Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means no reservations are accepted, so early arrival is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

• Kayak Landing: A dedicated kayak landing site, specifically next to site #25, makes it easy for canoe and kayak enthusiasts to put their boats in the Manistee River.

• Fishing Opportunities: The campground provides excellent opportunities for fishing in the Manistee River, known for brown and rainbow trout, bass, walleye, and suckers. Many campers spend hours fishing directly from the riverbanks or launching their boats.

• Hiking Trail Access: Proximity to the North Country Trail (just a mile away) and other local pathways means direct access to miles of scenic hiking within the surrounding state forest.

• Firewood Sales: While not explicitly stated as an on-site service, most Michigan State Forest Campgrounds sell firewood to help prevent the spread of forest pests. It's advisable for campers to check upon arrival or bring cash for this purpose.

• Direct Manistee River Access and Views: A standout feature is the campground's immediate adjacency to the Manistee River. Campers enjoy "river access from several different spots," including a "nice deck for enjoying a relaxing afternoon." The opportunity to fish, paddle, or simply sit by the scenic river is a major draw, providing stunning views and tranquil sounds.

• Pristine and Well-Maintained Environment: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness and maintenance. Descriptions like "great campground! Nice open clean sites" and "very clean pit vault bathrooms" highlight the dedication to providing a pleasant and hygienic rustic experience.

• Rustic Michigan Camping at its Best: For those seeking an authentic, traditional camping experience, Baxter Bridge delivers. It offers a "very nice rustic feeling" with its lack of electrical hookups and emphasis on natural surroundings, allowing campers to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the outdoors.

• Proximity to North Country Trail: The campground's location just a mile from the North Country Trail is a significant highlight for hikers and outdoor adventurers. This provides direct access to miles of scenic footpaths through Michigan's beautiful forests.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The Manistee River is renowned for its fishing, particularly for trout. Campers have ample opportunity to cast a line and enjoy the thrill of catching brown and rainbow trout, bass, walleye, and suckers, making it a popular spot for anglers.

• Spacious, Open Sites: Many sites are described as "nice open clean sites with fire pits," suggesting ample space for tents and small trailers, allowing campers a sense of openness and privacy, even if neighbors can be close during heavy traffic periods.

• Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: The overall ambiance is one of tranquility and relaxation, perfect for "getting away from it all." Reviewers emphasize enjoying themselves and recommend this "awesome campground" for a serene outdoor escape.

• Pet-Friendly: While not explicitly detailed, as a State Forest Campground, it is generally assumed to be pet-friendly, allowing leashed dogs, which is a key feature for many Michigan families.

Address: 6730 N 31 Rd, Manton, MI 49663, USA

Phone: (231) 775-9727 (This number likely connects to the DNR management unit responsible for this campground, such as Mitchell State Park, which oversees it.)

Mobile Phone: +1 231-775-9727

Note: As a first-come, first-served State Forest Campground, there is no direct reservation line for specific sites. The phone number provided is for general inquiries regarding Michigan DNR campgrounds in the region.

For residents of Michigan, Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground in Manton is an exceptionally suitable destination that truly embodies the essence of an authentic "Up-North" outdoor experience. Its blend of rustic charm, pristine natural beauty, and direct access to premier recreational opportunities makes it a highly sought-after retreat for those looking to reconnect with nature without venturing too far from home.

The most significant draw for Michiganders is its prime location along the majestic Manistee River. This offers unparalleled opportunities for trout fishing, a beloved pastime for many in our state, as well as kayaking, canoeing, and simply enjoying the soothing sounds and scenic views of the river. The presence of a "nice deck" for relaxation and easy access points makes river enjoyment effortless, ensuring that locals can fully immerse themselves in these quintessential Michigan activities.

Furthermore, Baxter Bridge provides that much-desired "rustic feeling" that many seek when camping. The clean, open sites with fire pits, coupled with well-maintained vault toilets and hand-pump water, offer the perfect balance of essential amenities and an unplugged experience. This focus on simplicity allows families and individuals to truly disconnect from digital distractions and immerse themselves in quality time together, creating the kind of lasting memories that define a Michigan childhood. The consistent praise for the campground's cleanliness and maintenance by fellow campers speaks to the high standards upheld, ensuring a comfortable stay even in a rustic setting.

For the active Michigander, the campground’s direct proximity to the North Country Trail is a considerable advantage. This allows for immediate access to miles of world-class hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, making it an ideal base for exploring our state’s vast forestlands. Even with its popularity, the first-come, first-served system, while requiring a bit of planning during peak times, fosters a spontaneous spirit that many outdoor enthusiasts appreciate.

In essence, Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to genuine Michigan wilderness. It’s where new family traditions are forged around campfires, where the thrill of catching a trout in the Manistee River becomes a cherished story, and where the simple act of breathing in fresh pine air can rejuvenate the soul. For locals seeking a clean, accessible, and truly rustic outdoor adventure, Baxter Bridge is an "awesome" and highly recommended choice that truly captures the heart of Michigan.

Baxter Bridge State Forest Campground

6730 N 31 Rd, Manton, MI 49663, USA