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Recreation

The Forest Service waives recreation fees at most day-use sites on lands managed by the agency. Participation by concession-operated sites may vary. The 2025 dates are:

  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 20, 2025
  • National Get Outdoors Day June 14, 2025
  • Juneteenth June 19, 2025
  • National Public Lands Day September 27, 2025
  • Veterans Day November 11, 2025

Know Before You Go

Canine Camper

A dog drinking water.

Dogs are welcome on the Huron-Manistee National Forests (HMNFs), given that applicable rules are followed and proper etiquette is practiced. Observing these rules and recommendations on this page will ensure that you and other forest visitors have a safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation experience.

Showing: 41 - 50 of 168 results

Eagle Run Cross-Country Ski and Hiking Trail

Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking Biking Winter Sports
This trail runs along the south shore of the Lower Au Sable River. Eagle Run provides a loop trail system for hiking and cross-country skiing.Scenic views of the Au Sable River, and a quiet, remote…

Elk Canoe Campground

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities
This campground is located in the middle of the 66-mile Scenic portion of the river. The camps are set back from the river in openings within a forested setting. As paddlers travel down the river…

Elm Flats Canoe Landing

Site Open
Picnicking Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
This location marks the start of the permitted portion of the River. The parking area for this landing is located on a hill above the landing, which requires a walk up from the area. This stretch of…

Foote Pond Overlook

Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning
Foote Pond Overlook provides a spectacular view from the high sand bluffs overlooking Foote Pond. Visitors may see the eagles that nest nearby. The Overlook has a paved access read and parking and…

Forest Discovery Trail

Outdoor Science and Learning Winter Sports Hiking
The path goes through the grounds of the visitor center to the overlook deck.Flickr Photo Albums:Visitor Center and GroundsProgramsRiver Road National Scenic Byway

Freesoil Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Winter Sports Biking
 Going North - Heading north will take you to the Udell Trailhead.  The trail from Udell Trailhead to Freesoil Trailhead traverses the Udell Hills.  After the trail crosses the Little Manistee…

Gabions Campground and Day Use

Site Open
Picnicking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Water Activities
Gabions Campground offers camping on the National Scenic stretch of the Au Sable River.  Natural springs are common on this section of the river, including a small one at the river's edge near the…

Gleason's Landing Campground and River Access

Site Open
Picnicking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities
Gleason's Landing is a very popular campground on the banks of the Pere Marquette River. With a selection of shaded and secluded spots, the campground is perfect for peaceful nature immersion. The…

Government Landing

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Water Activities
This camping area is named for Government Island. The 3 campsites are part of the Forest Services' 41 designated dispersed sites along the Upper Manistee River. The main access road along the…

Green Cottage

Site Open
Picnicking Water Activities Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The trip down the river is very scenic, paddlers will pass a lot of wetland areas and swamp vegetation and areas forested with oak and pine over story. This section is one where paddlers will be most…