Gleasons Landing

Welcome to Gleasons Landing, a cherished rustic campground nestled along the picturesque banks of the Pere Marquette River in Baldwin, Michigan. For Michigan locals and visitors alike, Gleasons Landing offers an authentic and serene natural escape, perfect for those who appreciate the simpler joys of outdoor living. If you're looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, our campground provides an idyllic setting. We pride ourselves on offering a peaceful environment where the gentle sounds of the river and the rustling leaves are your primary soundtrack.

Gleasons Landing is specifically designed for tent camping, providing a more traditional and intimate connection with the outdoors. It's a place where you can truly unwind, whether you're casting a line into the renowned Pere Marquette, paddling its clear waters, or simply enjoying a campfire under the vast Michigan sky. Our commitment is to maintain a clean, accessible, and natural space that allows you to fully embrace the beauty of Northern Michigan. Customer reviews consistently highlight the beauty of the location and its direct access to the river, reinforcing our reputation as a top spot for nature lovers. We understand that a truly memorable camping experience lies in the unspoiled beauty of the surroundings and the ease with which you can enjoy them, and that's precisely what Gleasons Landing strives to deliver.

Gleasons Landing is conveniently located on S Brooks Road, Baldwin, MI 49411, USA. This address places us within the heart of Lake County, a region celebrated throughout Michigan for its unparalleled natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Our prime location offers relatively easy access from various parts of the state, allowing you to quickly transition from urban landscapes to the serene embrace of the forest. Baldwin, the nearest town, provides essential services and supplies, ensuring that while you're enjoying the rustic charm of Gleasons Landing, you're never too far from necessities.

What truly sets Gleasons Landing apart in terms of accessibility is its direct connection to the Pere Marquette River. This federally designated National Scenic River is renowned for its exceptional trout, salmon, and steelhead fishing, making our campground a dream destination for anglers. Many campsites offer immediate access to the river, with some even situated directly on its banks, allowing for an immersive riverside experience. Beyond fishing, the river serves as a fantastic waterway for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing, providing endless opportunities for on-water recreation. The surrounding area is part of the vast Huron-Manistee National Forests, meaning campers have direct access to an extensive network of hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the expansive beauty of Michigan's wilderness. While the campsites might be a bit of a walk from the parking area, as noted by visitors, this contributes to the quiet and secluded nature of the experience, making the effort worthwhile for the serene atmosphere you'll find. It also encourages a lighter packing approach or the use of wagons for easier transport, enhancing the rustic adventure.

As a rustic campground, Gleasons Landing focuses on providing essential services that support a genuine outdoor experience, rather than extensive modern amenities. This ensures that the natural beauty and tranquility of the location remain the primary focus. Based on the common features of such sites and customer feedback, services typically offered include:

• Designated Campsites: Clearly marked and maintained campsites suitable for tent camping. These sites are generally spacious, offering privacy and a connection with nature.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained vault toilets are provided for convenience. Customer reviews specifically mention "pretty clean vault toilet," indicating a commitment to hygiene.
• Access to Potable Water: While not always at every campsite, access to a central potable water source is generally available for campers to fill containers. It's advisable to bring your own water bottles or larger containers.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite typically includes a fire ring or grill grate for campfires and cooking.
• Picnic Tables: Standard picnic tables are usually provided at each site for dining and gathering.
• Waste Disposal: Designated areas for trash disposal are typically available, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and "Leave No Trace."

It is always recommended for visitors to confirm specific amenities and any current conditions directly with the managing authority (often the U.S. Forest Service or Michigan DNR) before their visit.

Gleasons Landing stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable camping spot for locals in Michigan:

• Prime Pere Marquette River Access: This is arguably the biggest draw. The campground offers direct and easy access to the Pere Marquette River, a world-class destination for fishing (especially trout, salmon, and steelhead), kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Some sites are right on the riverbank, providing an unparalleled riverside experience.
• Rustic, Nature-Focused Experience: For those who love true outdoor immersion, Gleasons Landing provides a genuine rustic camping environment. It's about being surrounded by nature, hearing the river, and enjoying simple pleasures.
• Clean Vault Toilets: A consistent highlight from reviews, indicating that essential facilities are well-maintained, contributing to a more comfortable rustic experience.
• Decent Sized Campsites: Campers appreciate the generous spacing of sites, offering a good degree of privacy and room to spread out.
• Easy Firewood Access: Reviewers note that firewood is easy to find, which is a significant convenience for campers looking to enjoy a campfire.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Situated within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, the campground is enveloped by stunning natural beauty, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Due to its rustic nature and location, Gleasons Landing tends to be quieter than more developed campgrounds, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.
• Ideal for Anglers and Paddlers: The immediate proximity and access to the Pere Marquette River make it a top choice for fishing trips and paddling adventures.
• Accessible for Various Users: While some sites require a walk from parking, this adds to the secluded charm and encourages careful packing, making it accessible for those seeking a slightly more adventurous, but rewarding, camping style.

To plan your visit to Gleasons Landing and experience the beauty of the Pere Marquette River, here's the essential contact information. Please note that as a rustic campground, direct phone contact might be managed by the overseeing forest service or state park entity.

Address: S Brooks Rd, Baldwin, MI 49411, USA

For reservations, current conditions, or more specific inquiries about Gleasons Landing, it is recommended to contact the USDA Forest Service - Huron-Manistee National Forests, as this is typically how rustic campgrounds within National Forests are managed. A general phone number for the Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger District (which often oversees this area) might be available through online searches, but direct campground-specific numbers are rare for rustic sites. Please search for the relevant Forest Service contact information for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding bookings and regulations.

For Michigan locals seeking an authentic and deeply rewarding outdoor experience, Gleasons Landing is an unequivocally suitable choice. Its location directly on the banks of the renowned Pere Marquette River offers an unparalleled advantage for fishing, paddling, and simply soaking in the serene sounds of nature. Unlike more developed campgrounds, Gleasons Landing embraces a rustic charm, providing ample space at campsites and well-maintained essential facilities like clean vault toilets. This focus on natural simplicity means less distraction and more connection to Michigan's wild beauty.

Whether you're an avid angler looking for a prime spot to cast your line, a kayaker eager to explore the scenic river, or simply someone yearning for a quiet retreat under the stars, Gleasons Landing delivers. Its proximity to vast national forests also means endless opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation right outside your tent. The slight walk to some campsites from the parking area, far from being a deterrent, enhances the sense of seclusion and adventure, encouraging a mindful approach to packing and a deeper appreciation for the unspoiled environment. Gleasons Landing truly represents the heart of Michigan's outdoor allure, offering a peaceful, clean, and accessible gateway to natural tranquility for all who seek it.

Gleasons Landing

S Brooks Rd, Baldwin, MI 49411, USA