Tippy Dam Campground

For Michigan locals passionate about fishing, outdoor recreation, and immersing themselves in the state’s breathtaking natural scenery, Tippy Dam Campground in Wellston, MI, often comes to mind as a prime destination. Nestled within the expansive Manistee National Forest and directly adjacent to the famed Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River, this campground offers a unique blend of rustic charm and access to some of Michigan's most celebrated fishing grounds.

However, it's important for prospective campers to have a full, factual understanding of what to expect, as experiences can vary. This article is designed to provide Michigan residents with a comprehensive and honest overview of Tippy Dam Campground, detailing its location, available services, key features, and offering a balanced perspective based on various public information. We aim to help you determine if this campground is the right fit for your next Pure Michigan outdoor adventure.

Tippy Dam Campground is strategically located near the Tippy Dam on the Big Manistee River, widely recognized as a world-class fishing destination. This makes it an especially popular spot for anglers targeting trout, steelhead, and the abundant salmon runs during the fall season. Beyond fishing, the campground offers a gateway to the vast recreational opportunities within the surrounding Manistee National Forest.

The campground offers a variety of accommodation options, including both electric and non-electric (rustic) campsites, as well as cabins. It caters to a range of campers, from those with RVs needing hookups to tent campers seeking a more traditional experience. The natural setting, with the Manistee River flowing nearby and thousands of acres of forest land, provides a serene backdrop for outdoor activities. It is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the area across all four seasons, from vibrant fall colors to snowy winter landscapes.

It is important to note that while the campground offers amenities, some public feedback indicates areas that could benefit from improvement, particularly regarding the cleanliness and maintenance of facilities like shower rooms and restrooms. Prospective visitors should consider this information when planning their trip and managing expectations, especially if comfort amenities are a high priority.

Tippy Dam Campground is precisely located at 17974 Old House Rd, Wellston, MI 49689, USA. This address places it firmly in Manistee County, a region in the northwest Lower Peninsula of Michigan, known for its scenic beauty and rich natural resources. The campground's most significant geographic feature is its immediate proximity to the Tippy Dam and the Manistee River, offering direct water access and views.

The campground's location within the Manistee National Forest provides a secluded, natural environment. Access to the campground is typically by personal vehicle, as it is situated off main highways. From major Michigan cities, visitors would travel via state and county roads. For example, from Grand Rapids, one would take US-131 N and then connect to local routes to reach Wellston. The roads leading to the campground are generally paved, but once within the forest, some roads might be gravel or less developed.

While direct public transportation services to this relatively remote location are unlikely, Michigan's vast network of trails and waterways provides alternative means of exploration once you arrive. The Manistee River, for instance, is popular for paddling, with several local liveries offering canoe and kayak rentals. The surrounding forest also provides numerous trails for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transportation for reaching the campground and then exploring the wider area.

Tippy Dam Campground offers a range of services designed to support a traditional camping experience, with some key features and considerations:

• Campsites with Amenities: The campground provides 17 sites with electric service (20/30/50 amp) and 20 sites without electric hookups (rustic). All sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits.
• Bathhouse with Showers: A bathhouse with showers is available. However, public reviews indicate concerns about cleanliness, with descriptions mentioning "dirty, full of bugs and cob webs, other people's wet gear, and the smell." This suggests that while showers are provided, their condition might not meet all expectations.
• Water Fill Station and Dump Station: These facilities are available for RV campers, ensuring convenience for fresh water and waste disposal.
• Cabins Available: The campground offers cabins for rent. Public feedback suggests a range of cabin quality, with one review describing a "rustic" cabin as an "unfinished storage shed with 2 cots" and noting a strong smell of OSB. Prospective renters should clarify the exact type and condition of the cabin they are booking. There are various cabin options, including those with full kitchens and baths, and more rustic ones.
• On-Site Store/Concessions: Firewood and ice are reportedly available for sale at the campground office.
• Fees for Services: Some services, such as using the freezer for fish ($5.00) or the fish cleaning table ($5.00), come with additional charges, which some visitors have noted as being extensive.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at the campground but must be on a leash, cleaned up after, and closely monitored. They should not be left unattended if they have behavioral problems or bark continuously.

Tippy Dam Campground's primary highlights revolve around its natural setting and recreational opportunities:

• World-Class Fishing: Located directly on the Manistee River, a premier fishing destination, the campground offers unparalleled access to excellent trout, steelhead, and salmon fishing, especially during the fall salmon runs. An accessible fishing pier is available near the parking lot.
• Proximity to Tippy Dam: The engineering marvel of Tippy Dam itself offers a unique backdrop and is a key feature of the area, drawing anglers and sightseers alike.
• Manistee National Forest Setting: The campground is nestled within thousands of acres of the Manistee National Forest, providing a serene environment for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
• Variety of Sites: With both electric and rustic sites, plus cabins, the campground caters to different camping preferences and comfort levels. Sites are often described as spacious.
• Boat Launches: There are boat launches available both on the Manistee River and the upstream, dammed portion (Tippy Dam backwaters), facilitating boating and paddling activities.
• Trails and Outdoor Recreation: The surrounding forest offers numerous trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in winter. Paddling is also popular on the river.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the area's beauty in all seasons, including winter camping.
• Fish Cleaning Station: A dedicated fish cleaning station is located near the parking lot by the river, although there is a stated fee for its use.

Tippy Dam Campground does not typically advertise specific ongoing "promotions" in the same way a chain hotel might. As a privately-managed campground near a state recreation area, rates are generally fixed.

However, prospective campers can inquire about:

• Off-Season Rates: Camping outside of the peak summer months or major fishing seasons might offer slightly reduced rates or more availability.
• Bundle Deals: Sometimes, local outfitters or guides in the Wellston area might offer packages that combine guided fishing trips or equipment rentals with a stay at the campground. It's worth checking with local tourism boards or fishing guides.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing for campsites and cabins, as well as any potential discounts for extended stays or group bookings, it is best to contact Tippy Dam Campground directly using the provided phone numbers.

For reservations, inquiries about available sites or cabins, and any other questions about Tippy Dam Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 17974 Old House Rd, Wellston, MI 49689, USA

Phone: (231) 848-4448

Mobile Phone: +1 231-848-4448

Email: tippydamcampgroundandcabins@gmail.com (as found on their website)

Direct communication will allow you to clarify any concerns, confirm pricing for specific services, and get the most current information regarding your planned visit.

Tippy Dam Campground holds a unique appeal for Michigan locals, especially those drawn to the state's legendary fishing opportunities and vast forest landscapes. Its suitability for residents stems from its direct access to a world-class fishery and its location within the Manistee National Forest, offering an authentic "Up North" Michigan outdoor experience.

For anglers, being steps away from the Tippy Dam on the Manistee River is an undeniable draw, providing prime access to salmon, steelhead, and trout. This makes it an ideal base camp for fishing expeditions. Beyond fishing, the surrounding Manistee National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, catering to a broader range of outdoor interests throughout the year, even offering winter camping.

While some public feedback points to areas for improvement regarding facility cleanliness and additional fees for certain services, the campground’s core strengths—its prime location for fishing and its immersion in natural beauty—remain significant. For Michigan locals who prioritize these aspects and are prepared for a more rustic experience with specific amenities, Tippy Dam Campground offers a memorable and accessible outdoor adventure. It’s a place where the thrill of the catch meets the tranquility of the forest, creating a true Michigan getaway. It’s an option for those who cherish direct access to natural resources and are willing to embrace a rugged charm for the sake of unparalleled outdoor access.