Merwin Creek Campground

For Michiganders yearning for a true escape into the wild, far from the clamor of city life, Merwin Creek Campground presents an intriguing option. Tucked away in the serene landscapes of Gulliver, Michigan, this state forest campground offers a primitive camping experience that harks back to simpler times. It’s a place where the sounds of nature replace car horns, and starry nights outshine urban glow. If your ideal getaway involves disconnecting and immersing yourself in the Upper Peninsula's natural beauty, Merwin Creek Campground might just be your next favorite spot.

Merwin Creek Campground has a long-standing history with many visitors, some having camped there for over 50 years. This speaks volumes about its enduring appeal to those who cherish a rustic setting. As one long-time visitor enthusiastically shared, "Awesome time so relaxing down there! Beautiful primitive camping! I've been camping there for over 50 + yrs! I hope they keep it that way!" This sentiment underscores the desire among many campers for untouched, authentic outdoor experiences. However, it's important to set expectations appropriately. Another review noted a different experience, stating, "Big group of very loud people at 7pm. Music blasting. Men shouting. Quite a bit of trash on the ground at empty sites. Does not feel safe at all. Sure was pretty. Too bad people have to ruin things. I don’t go camping so I can listen to noisy neighbors. I go camping to get away from them!" This feedback, while a contrast, highlights that as a rustic, first-come, first-served campground, the experience can sometimes vary depending on fellow campers. It serves as a reminder that while the natural beauty is consistent, the ambiance can be influenced by others. For those seeking true tranquility, visiting during off-peak times or being prepared for a potentially lively atmosphere might be wise.

Merwin Creek Campground is located in Gulliver, MI 49840, USA. More specifically, it is situated on County Road 433, approximately nine miles northwest of Gulliver via US-2, County Road 438, and County Road 433. This placement puts it squarely within Michigan's renowned Upper Peninsula, a region celebrated for its vast forests, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. For Michigan residents, reaching the campground involves a scenic drive into the heart of the U.P., making it an accessible wilderness retreat.

The campground's location along the banks of the Manistique River is a significant draw, offering direct access to this beautiful waterway. While the address indicates a specific spot, it's essential for visitors to understand that this is a more remote, rustic setting. The roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained for access by vehicles and small trailers. Given its nature as a state forest campground, it’s designed for those who appreciate being off the beaten path, away from major highway noise and urban distractions. This accessibility to a truly natural environment, while still being reachable by standard vehicles, makes Merwin Creek an appealing destination for Michigan locals looking for an authentic outdoor adventure without needing highly specialized off-road equipment.

Merwin Creek Campground, as a rustic state forest campground, offers a more minimalistic set of services compared to larger, privately run campgrounds. This aligns with its primitive camping philosophy, emphasizing a back-to-nature experience.

• Campsites: The campground features 10 sites, primarily accommodating tents and small trailers. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring for traditional camping activities.

• Vault Toilets: For restroom facilities, the campground provides vault toilets. While basic, these are maintained to offer a functional solution for campers.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a well hand pump. Campers should be prepared for this type of water source, which adds to the rustic charm but may require extra containers for carrying water to individual sites.

• Boat Launch: A gravel-surfaced ramp suitable for medium-sized and smaller boats (canoes, kayaks, small fishing boats) is located on-site, providing direct access to the Manistique River for paddling and fishing.

• No Electrical Hook-ups: It's important for visitors to note that there are no electrical hook-ups available at the campsites, reinforcing the primitive nature of the campground.

• No Showers: As a rustic campground, showers are not provided on-site. Campers should plan accordingly for personal hygiene.

• Trash Receptacles: While one review mentioned trash, state forest campgrounds typically provide designated areas for trash disposal, though it's always encouraged for campers to practice Leave No Trace principles.

Merwin Creek Campground’s appeal lies in its dedication to a classic, no-frills camping experience, providing unique features and highlights for those who appreciate simplicity and natural beauty.

• Primitive Camping Experience: This is arguably the top highlight. For campers who value solitude, quiet nights under the stars, and minimal distractions, Merwin Creek offers an authentic primitive camping setting. It’s about reconnecting with nature without the typical amenities of modern campgrounds.

• Riverside Location: Many of the sites are located directly along the Manistique River, offering picturesque views and easy access for water activities. This proximity to the river is a significant draw for many.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The Manistique River, which borders the campground, is renowned for its fishing. Anglers can expect to find Walleye, Bass, Pike, Perch, Bluegill, Musky, and Lake Herring, providing ample opportunities for a rewarding catch.

• Paddling Paradise: The Manistique River is Michigan's longest undeveloped river, making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Its twisty, sandy-bottomed nature and depths between two and ten feet make it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels, allowing for serene exploration directly from the campground.

• First-Come, First-Served Sites: While this can sometimes be a challenge during peak season, it also offers spontaneity for Michigan locals who decide on a last-minute getaway without needing prior reservations.

• Secluded and Rustic Ambiance: The campground's remote location ensures a secluded atmosphere, allowing campers to truly disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the Upper Peninsula forests. It’s designed for those who appreciate rugged beauty over manicured sites.

• Access to State Land for Hunting: The campground provides direct access to state land that is open to hunting, making it a convenient base camp for Michigan hunters (adhering to all regulations, including the 450 ft. rule from occupied dwellings).

• Proximity to Local Attractions (Manistique): While Merwin Creek itself is rustic, it's just a short drive from the town of Manistique (approximately 12 miles). This means campers can access grocery stores for supplies or explore other attractions like Indian Lake State Park or Kewadin Casino if they wish to vary their activities.

As a state forest campground managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Merwin Creek Campground typically operates on a standardized fee structure and generally does not offer individual promotions or special offers in the same way private campgrounds might. State forest campgrounds usually have a fixed nightly rate, which is set to be affordable for public use.

However, Michigan residents can often take advantage of broader state-level opportunities that can enhance their camping experience at places like Merwin Creek:

• Recreation Passport: The Michigan Recreation Passport, which can be purchased annually with vehicle license plate renewals, provides access to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas, including state forest campgrounds like Merwin Creek. This offers significant savings for frequent visitors to Michigan's outdoor recreation sites.

• Seasonal Passes/Permits: While not a discount on the campsite fee itself, having the Recreation Passport or similar state permits allows unlimited use of the facilities for the year, making each visit more cost-effective for locals.

• Off-Peak Season Camping: Although Merwin Creek is open seasonally (typically April-October, contact directly for precise dates), visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) often means fewer crowds and a more serene experience, which can be seen as a "value" in itself, even if the nightly rate remains the same.

It is always advisable for Michigan residents interested in camping at Merwin Creek Campground to consult the Michigan DNR website or contact the campground manager directly for the most current information on fees, seasonal opening and closing dates, and any general state-level pass requirements. Given its first-come, first-served nature, the best "promotion" is often the opportunity to secure a prime riverside site by arriving early, especially during popular times.

For those planning a rustic camping adventure at Merwin Creek Campground, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: County Road 433, Gulliver, MI 49854, USA (It is important to note that while the general address is Gulliver, MI 49840, the more specific location for navigation is County Road 433)

• Phone: (906) 341-3618 or (906) 452-6227 (These numbers are associated with the Michigan DNR, which manages the State Forest Campgrounds in the area. It is best to call to inquire about current conditions, seasonal openings, or any specific questions about the campground.)

• Managed by: Schoolcraft County, under the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Since Merwin Creek is a first-come, first-served campground, direct reservations are not possible. However, contacting the DNR or the local managing office can provide valuable real-time information regarding site availability, road conditions, or any temporary closures.

For Michigan residents, Merwin Creek Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an accessible gateway to the authentic, unspoiled wilderness of the Upper Peninsula. While some may seek the amenities of a resort, many Michiganders cherish the raw, unfiltered beauty that primitive camping offers, and Merwin Creek delivers exactly that. Its first-come, first-served policy makes it perfect for spontaneous weekend getaways when the call of the wild becomes irresistible, allowing you to pack up and head north without the hassle of advance bookings.

The core appeal for locals lies in its unique balance: it’s remote enough to offer a genuine escape – a place where you can relax, immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy the true quiet of the forest – yet still within reasonable driving distance for many across the state. The direct access to the Manistique River for fishing and paddling is a huge draw, tapping into Michigan’s deep-rooted outdoor culture. Imagine casting a line from your campsite or setting off in a kayak right from the bank, all against the backdrop of the U.P.'s stunning natural scenery. While the experience may vary depending on fellow campers, as noted in some reviews, the consistent beauty of the setting and the fundamental freedom of primitive camping remain its strongest assets. For those who grew up exploring Michigan’s state forests and appreciate the simple joys of a campfire under a vast, starlit sky, Merwin Creek Campground offers a timeless and deeply satisfying return to nature that’s truly perfect for the Michigan spirit. It’s a place to create new traditions, or simply continue old ones, in the heart of our beautiful home state.