4.2741 reviewsPrice
$30 - $40/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
16 campsites
Season
OPENS SATURDAY MAY 2
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Check Policy
Price
$30 - $40/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
16 campsites
Season
OPENS SATURDAY MAY 2
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Check Policy
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1170 Nursery Road, Wellston, MI 49689
Anglers and canoe campers get the most out of this place, trout and steelhead in the river, a kayak launch near the sites, and a 1.5-mile spur to the North Country Trail for anyone who wants more than a riverside chair. Arrive midweek; 16 sites fill fast on summer weekends.
Potable water is unreliable, the pump has been out of service on past visits, and the operator confirms no guaranteed on-site drinking water. Bring everything in. No showers, no hookups, cash or check only. RVs aren't supported.
Reference information about Bear Track Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →
<p style="display: none;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfs-hmnf/albums/72157669593116042" title="Bear Track Campground"><img alt="Bear Track Campground" height="240" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7054/27840674386_f8cbc00e57_m.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p><p>Bear Track got its name many years ago from a bear track found while building the site. A 1.5 mile trail connects the campground to the North Country National Scenic Trail. Fishing is a popular activity for this area.</p><p><a href="http://go.usa.gov/x9h9q" target="external"><strong>Map:</strong></a> This brochure is set to print on 8.5x11 paper, landscape (wide) orientation.</p>
The elevation is 680 ft. The campground is a single loop on a bluff above the Little Manistee River. Some sites overlook the River and all enjoy lots of shade. This campground features fishing and canoeing opportunities. The Little Manistee River also is home to a healthy population of beaver.
Open May 8 through September 14
Grass and gravel parking aprons.
From Wellston, MI, take Seaman Rd. south 3.9 miles through Dublin, MI. Just beyond grocery store, turn right staying on Seaman Rd., and go 3 miles to the town of Irons, MI. and 10-1/2 Mile Rd. Turn right onto 10-1/2 Mile Rd. and go 2.5 miles to Bass Lake Rd. Turn right onto Bass Lake Rd. and go 0.9 miles to an intersection. Continue straight onto 11-Mile Road (a "Bear Track Recreation Area" sign is provided.) Following the signs, go 2.5 miles and turn right onto Riverside Drive, then right again at the campground sign.
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Summer delivers the most accessible experience, with daytime highs around 70–80°F and cool nights on the bluff. Water activities, fishing, and North Country Trail access peak during these months. Mosquitoes are a concern in warmer months according to multiple reviews, though some visitors report fewer bugs than expected. Winter temperatures drop to around 20°F. Weekends fill up fast with only 16 sites available, so reserve early or plan midweek visits.
Summer (peak season) offers best access for fishing, boating and trail use; mild temps cited.
Bear Track Campground offers basic amenities, catering to campers seeking a primitive and naturalistic experience. The site is a single loop situated on a bluff above the Little Manistee River, providing abundant shade and scenic views. It features restrooms and a single water spigot, but potable water is not available onsite. Picnic tables and fire grilles are present at each of the 16 campsites. However, there are no flush toilets, showers, or Wi-Fi connectivity. Vault-style toilets are provided and are generally described as clean and well-maintained by users.
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