Huron-Manistee/Bear Track

Overview

Bear Track Campground offers a tranquil and deeply immersive escape within the sprawling Huron-Manistee National Forests. This is a classic rustic destination where the gentle sounds of the wind through the white pines replace the constant hum of modern city life. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, it provides a back-to-basics camping experience that encourages travelers to disconnect from their devices and reconnect with the natural world in the heart of Northern Michigan. The atmosphere here is peaceful and grounded, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the quiet simplicity of the great outdoors.

Location & Surroundings

Tucked away near the small, friendly community of Irons, Michigan, the campground is nestled deep within a dense canopy of hardwoods and towering conifers. It sits just a short distance from the Little Manistee River, a prized waterway known throughout the region for its exceptional clarity and scenic, winding bends. The surrounding landscape is a dedicated hub for outdoor recreation, characterized by its rolling forest terrain and a vast, interconnected network of managed federal forest trails that stretch for miles in every direction.

Amenities & Park Features

As a traditional, primitive Forest Service facility, Bear Track features vault toilets and hand-pumped potable water rather than modern tiled restrooms or electrical pedestals. Each individual site is thoughtfully equipped with a heavy-duty steel fire ring and a sturdy wooden picnic table for outdoor dining. Core features of the park include:

• Spacious wooded sites designed to maximize privacy between campers.
• Access to fresh water via seasonal hand pumps located throughout the loops.
• Direct proximity to scenic hiking paths and river access points.

While you will not find sewer or electric hookups here, the large, well-shaded sites offer a genuine sense of wilderness seclusion that modern paved RV resorts simply cannot replicate.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Avid anglers frequently travel to this specific area for the exceptional trout and salmon fishing opportunities found along the Little Manistee River. For those who prefer high-energy land-based adventures, the Lincoln Hills ORV trail system is easily accessible from the park, offering hundreds of miles of excitement for ATV and dirt bike enthusiasts. During the colder winter months, these same forest paths transform into a premier destination for snowmobiling through the scenic, snow-covered backcountry. The nearby town of Irons provides essential supplies and a glimpse into local Michigan culture.

Who This Park Is Best For

This destination is ideally suited for self-contained RVers and experienced boondockers who prioritize quiet solitude over resort-style luxury. It serves as a perfect home base for outdoor adventurers and motorized trail riders looking for direct access to Michigan's rugged interior. If your travel style involves falling asleep to the subtle sounds of the forest and you appreciate a campsite where the stars are bright and the air is crisp, this rugged gem in the National Forest is exactly what you are looking for.