Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground

For Michigan locals, the call of the wild often leads us to seek out those secluded spots where nature truly takes center stage. While some prefer the comforts of modern RV parks, many of us yearn for a more traditional, rustic camping experience—a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the rustle of leaves and the murmur of a nearby river. Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground, nestled near Mancelona, offers precisely this kind of authentic outdoor adventure, standing as a testament to Michigan's commitment to preserving raw, unspoiled natural spaces.

This campground is not your typical drive-up site; it's a destination designed for those who embrace hiking, backpacking, and a few "simple comforts" in the heart of the great outdoors. For Michiganders eager to disconnect and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of our state forests, Pinney Bridge provides an ideal setting. This article will provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground, detailing its unique location, available services, key features, and why it's a perfect fit for locals looking for a truly rustic and peaceful escape. Discover what makes this "very nice and quiet campground" a favored spot for those who seek genuine wilderness experiences in Michigan.

Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground is a rustic and tranquil camping destination situated in the beautiful state forests near Mancelona, Michigan. Managed by Young State Park, this campground is a prime example of Michigan’s commitment to providing accessible, yet unspoiled, outdoor experiences. It's specifically designed for campers who prioritize quiet, seclusion, and a connection with nature over extensive amenities.

Characterized by its "very nice and quiet" atmosphere, Pinney Bridge is unique in that its 15 tent sites are primarily "hike-in only," requiring a short walk from the parking area (about 200 yards). This deliberate design ensures that campsites are "spaced out enough to where you really won't hear anyone," fostering a genuine sense of privacy and peacefulness. Located along the scenic Jordan River, Michigan's first designated scenic river, the campground offers a picturesque setting ideal for relaxation, contemplation, and engaging in outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. While it embraces a back-to-basics approach with "just a few simple comforts," its well-maintained vaulted toilets and potable water source ensure a comfortable rustic stay. Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground truly embodies the spirit of traditional Michigan camping, making it a beloved spot for those who appreciate the untouched beauty of our state's forests.

Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground is located near Mancelona, MI 49659, USA, specifically 5.5 miles northwest of Alba via Alba Highway, M-66, and Pinney Bridge Road. This positioning places it deep within the state forest land of Antrim County, providing a genuine wilderness feel. The campground itself is nestled along the picturesque Jordan River, Michigan's first designated scenic river, adding to its natural charm.

For Michigan residents, accessing Pinney Bridge involves understanding its unique setup. Unlike many drive-up campgrounds, Pinney Bridge features "walk-in tent sites" only. While not an extreme backcountry hike, it requires a "bit of a walk to get in," typically a few hundred yards from the nearby parking lot. This characteristic is precisely what makes it appealing to backpackers and hikers who are generally "not shocked" by the need to traverse a short distance to their site. The approach roads are typically dirt roads, consistent with state forest access.

The campground's location is strategically advantageous for outdoor enthusiasts. It sits near the halfway mark of the renowned Jordan Valley Pathway, an 18-mile hiking loop that attracts many long-distance hikers. It also offers access to the North Country Trail (2 miles southeast) and Warner Creek Pathway (9 miles northeast), making it a prime base for extensive hiking and exploring Michigan's vast trail systems. While cell service can be intermittent or non-existent in this remote area, it contributes to the feeling of being truly disconnected and immersed in nature, which is often the goal for those seeking such a rustic experience in Michigan.

• Rustic Campsites: The campground offers 15 rustic tent sites, designed for a traditional, back-to-basics camping experience.
• Walk-in Access: All campsites are walk-in only, requiring a short hike of about 200 yards from the parking area.
• Vault Toilets: Well-maintained "vaulted toilets are kept in good condition," providing essential restroom facilities.
• Potable Water: Potable water is available from a hand-pump well, a convenient source for drinking and cooking needs.
• Trash Cans: A few trash cans are provided near the central notice board for waste disposal.
• Central Notice Board: An informational board is available upon arrival with details about payment procedures, campground rules, and area information.
• Self-Registration: Campers register themselves by filling out an envelope and slipping cash payment into a designated drop box.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations.
• Recreation Passport Required for Parking: A Michigan Recreation Passport (or additional money to purchase one) is required to park a vehicle at the nearby parking lots.

• Very Nice and Quiet Campground: Consistently praised for its tranquil atmosphere, where campers "really won't hear anyone" due to the spaced-out sites.
• Secluded Campsites: Campsites are "spaced out enough" to provide significant privacy, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature.
• Located on the Jordan River: Situated along Michigan's first designated scenic river, offering opportunities for fishing (brown and rainbow trout, steelhead, salmon) and picturesque views.
• Access to Extensive Hiking Trails: Directly on the Jordan Valley Pathway (an 18-mile loop) and near the North Country Trail and Warner Creek Pathway, making it a prime hub for hikers and backpackers.
• Well-Maintained Vault Toilets: A notable feature for rustic camping, ensuring a cleaner and more pleasant experience for a pit toilet.
• Potable Water Source: Access to fresh, potable water from a hand-pump well is a valuable amenity in a rustic setting.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Surrounded by state forest, offering a true "out of doors" experience with partial tree coverage at sites.
• Simple, Back-to-Basics Camping: Appeals to those who prefer a more traditional, less amenity-heavy camping trip.
• Dark Sky: Implied by the secluded forest location, likely offers excellent opportunities for stargazing away from light pollution.

As a Michigan State Forest Campground, Pinney Bridge operates under the regulations and pricing structure of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). These campgrounds are known for their rustic nature and affordability, rather than offering frequent, dynamic promotional discounts typically seen at private campgrounds. The "special offer" here is the consistent, relatively low nightly rate for a secluded, natural camping experience.

Based on public data, a standard nightly fee for state forest campgrounds like Pinney Bridge is typically $20. While one review mentions it being "pretty pricey ($20/night) especially for what little the site has to offer," this price point is generally standard for rustic state forest campgrounds across Michigan and is considered affordable by many, particularly given the access to vast natural resources and trail systems.

The most significant "offer" associated with Pinney Bridge, and all Michigan State Forest Campgrounds, is the requirement and benefit of the Michigan Recreation Passport. This annual pass (or daily pass for non-residents) is necessary for vehicle entry into state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, and state trail parking lots. For Michigan residents, purchasing the Recreation Passport with their license plate renewal (currently $14) offers an entire year of access to these incredible outdoor resources, including Pinney Bridge, making it a highly cost-effective way to enjoy Michigan’s outdoors.

Occasionally, the DNR may designate "free weekends" where camping fees are waived, as one reviewer mentioned experiencing, but these are rare and unannounced in advance. Pinney Bridge does not typically offer other standard promotions like group discounts or extended stay deals. Its value lies in its consistent affordability and the quality of the rustic, natural experience it provides. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and Recreation Passport information, visitors should refer to the official Michigan DNR website or contact the campground directly.

For inquiries regarding Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground, including information on its facilities, current conditions, or the Michigan Recreation Passport, you can typically reach out to the managing state park or the regional DNR office. While Pinney Bridge is a rustic, self-registration campground, administrative questions are handled through the broader Michigan DNR system.

Address: Mancelona, MI 49659, USA (Note: As a rustic forest campground, this is a general area address. Specific location details for entry and parking are crucial and often found on DNR maps or through direct inquiry).

Phone: (231) 582-7523 (This number is associated with the DNR and often connects to a local park or forest management unit that oversees the campground, such as Young State Park, which manages Pinney Bridge).

Mobile Phone: +1 231-582-7523

As this is a first-come, first-served campground with no reservations, calling ahead won't guarantee a spot, but it can provide useful information on trail conditions, water availability, or any temporary closures. Remember that cell service can be spotty in remote forest areas, so plan accordingly before you arrive. For the most detailed information on state forest campgrounds and recreation passports, the Michigan DNR website is an invaluable resource.

For Michigan locals who crave an authentic, unplugged outdoor experience, Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination. It embodies the essence of rustic Michigan camping, offering a peaceful retreat that resonates deeply with our appreciation for unspoiled nature and active outdoor pursuits.

Firstly, its "very nice and quiet" atmosphere is a significant draw. In a world increasingly filled with noise, the chance to camp where sites are "spaced out enough to where you really won't hear anyone" is a true luxury. This level of seclusion allows Michiganders to truly unwind and reconnect with the sounds of the forest, a quintessential part of our state's outdoor identity. The fact that it's a "hike-in" campground, even if just for a short distance, appeals directly to our adventurous spirit and those who value the effort it takes to reach a truly serene spot.

Secondly, Pinney Bridge's prime location along the Jordan River and its direct access to extensive trail systems like the Jordan Valley Pathway are incredibly valuable. For hikers, backpackers, and anglers across Michigan, this campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring some of our state's most beautiful and challenging terrain. The "simple comforts" of well-maintained vault toilets and potable water are exactly what's needed for a rustic experience, allowing campers to enjoy nature without being entirely without essential facilities.

Finally, the affordability, particularly when coupled with the Michigan Recreation Passport, makes it an accessible and excellent value for residents. For a nominal annual fee, locals can unlock access to countless state parks and forest campgrounds, including Pinney Bridge, making it a cost-effective way to regularly enjoy the vast natural resources Michigan offers. While it might be "a bit of a walk to get in" and "pretty pricey" for some, for the Michigander seeking a truly quiet, unadorned, and trail-centric camping adventure, Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground is not just suitable—it's a perfect match for our adventurous souls.