Carrieville State Forest Campground

For Michigan outdoor adventurers seeking a truly authentic, uncrowded camping experience, Carrieville State Forest Campground near Luther, MI, is a highly recommended destination. This rustic campground, cherished by locals, offers a pristine environment perfect for disconnecting from daily stresses and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the state. It's a prime spot for those who appreciate quiet evenings under the stars, direct access to thrilling trail systems, and excellent opportunities for fishing in the Little Manistee River.

As highlighted by enthusiastic campers, Carrieville is "one of our favorite places to camp." Visitors consistently praise its "clean, quiet" atmosphere and its perfection "for trail riding." Reviewers note the "roomy and clean" campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, making for a comfortable setup. While it's a "primitive campground" without electric or water hookups, it provides essential amenities like "pit toilets and fresh water...with a hand pump." This commitment to a more rugged experience, combined with its reasonable pricing and direct access to Michigan's expansive trail systems, makes Carrieville State Forest Campground an ideal choice for Michigan residents looking for an affordable and active outdoor escape.

Carrieville State Forest Campground is ideally located at 3997 N Kings Hwy #3486, Luther, MI 49656, USA. This position places it approximately 2.8 miles east of Luther, a small community in Lake County, Michigan. Lake County is nestled in the west-central Lower Peninsula, a region renowned for its vast state forests, numerous lakes, and the famed Little Manistee River.

Its accessibility is a major draw for specific types of outdoor enthusiasts. The campground offers direct access to miles of ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) trails, making it a dream come true for dirt bike, ATV, and full-sized vehicle ORV riders. The Little Manistee Trail, which connects directly from the campground, offers 46 miles of motorcycle trail and 47 miles of full-sized vehicle ORV route. Additionally, the Little Manistee River borders the campground to the east, providing excellent fishing access. For Michigan residents, this location offers a convenient drive into a wild and adventurous setting, perfect for extended stays or quick weekend trips to hit the trails or the river.

Carrieville State Forest Campground provides a rustic camping experience, emphasizing natural surroundings and essential amenities. Based on camper reviews and typical Michigan State Forest Campground offerings:

• Spacious Campsites: 31 large sites available for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 40 feet in length. Most sites are "big enough to accommodate vehicles pulling campers and trailers."
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are provided at each site for campfires and cooking.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained pit toilets (vault toilets) are available.
• Potable Water: Fresh water is accessible via a hand-pump well, offering a traditional rustic camping convenience.
• No Electric Hookups: It's important to note that there are "no electric hookup or water hookup" at the individual sites, catering to a more primitive style of camping.
• No Water Hookups: Similar to electricity, individual water hookups are not available at sites.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are generally available on a "first-come, first-serve basis," though it's always wise to check the Michigan DNR website for any updates on reservation policies, especially for group sites if applicable.

Carrieville State Forest Campground stands out for several key features that appeal to Michigan's outdoor community:

• Direct ORV Trail Access: A significant highlight is the direct connection to extensive ORV trail systems, including the Little Manistee Trail. This makes it a prime base for off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
• Little Manistee River Access: The campground borders the Little Manistee River to the east, providing convenient access for fishing, particularly for brown and rainbow trout and steelhead.
• Clean and Quiet Atmosphere: Consistently praised for being "clean, quiet," offering a peaceful escape from busy life.
• Roomy Campsites: The "roomy and clean" campsites ensure a comfortable and private camping experience.
• Affordable Pricing: Campers note the "very reasonable priced" sites, making it an accessible option for many.
• Variety of Sites: Offers a mix of heavily wooded sites for shade and privacy, and open field sites.
• Winter Camping: The rustic campground is open year-round, allowing for winter activities, though campground and seasonal roads are not plowed.
• Hunting Access: Provides access to state land open to hunting, appealing to hunters during regulated seasons.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural forest setting provides ample opportunities for observing local wildlife and birdwatching.

As a Michigan State Forest Campground, Carrieville operates under the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) fee structure, rather than offering commercial promotions. However, Michigan residents can benefit from:

• Affordable Daily Rates: State forest campgrounds are known for their reasonable overnight fees, typically around $20 per night, making camping accessible.
• Michigan Recreation Passport: This annual pass is an excellent value for Michigan residents. When purchased with your license plate renewal (for a small annual fee), it provides daily access to all Michigan state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, non-motorized state trailhead parking, and state boat launches. For campers, having the Recreation Passport is crucial and saves money on access fees throughout the year. As one reviewer noted, "be sure you have a Michigan passport if visiting from out of state."
• Off-Peak Season Camping: Camping during the spring or fall can provide a more serene experience with fewer crowds, often at the same low rates. The fall colors are particularly spectacular in this region.
• First-Come, First-Served Availability: The first-come, first-served nature means you don't need to book far in advance, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips, though it's always wise to arrive early on popular weekends.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and the Michigan Recreation Passport, it is always recommended to check the Michigan DNR website or contact their field office.

For inquiries about Carrieville State Forest Campground and to plan your visit:

Address: 3997 N Kings Hwy #3486, Luther, MI 49656, USA

Phone: (231) 745-9465 (This phone number connects to the Baldwin Field Office, which manages this campground, as noted on the DNR website).

It is advisable to call the DNR's Baldwin Field Office for the most current information regarding campground conditions, trail status, fire restrictions, and any specific details for your planned stay.

Carrieville State Forest Campground is an outstanding choice for Michigan locals who embrace rustic camping and active outdoor pursuits. Its location provides unparalleled access to some of the state's most cherished recreational opportunities, particularly for ORV riders and anglers. The consistent feedback from campers highlighting its "clean, quiet" nature and suitability for "trail riding" underscores its unique appeal. For those who own an ORV or a fishing rod, this campground offers a direct connection to their passions.

The affordability, combined with the comprehensive benefits of the Michigan Recreation Passport, makes Carrieville an accessible and cost-effective option for a wide range of Michiganders. It's a place where you can truly "unplug" and find peace in nature, whether you're enjoying a crackling campfire, casting a line into the Little Manistee River, or embarking on an exciting ORV adventure directly from your campsite. Carrieville State Forest Campground embodies the spirit of Michigan's wild lands, making it a perfect, no-frills, adventure-ready escape for any local seeking genuine outdoor enjoyment.