The Huron-Manistee National Forests comprise almost a million acres of public lands extending across the northern lower peninsula of Michigan. The Huron-Manistee National Forests provide recreation opportunities for visitors, habitat for fish and wildlife, and resources for local industry.

The forests of northern Michigan are rich in history. In the late 1800s logging was at its peak and these forests were quickly cut and cleared. In 1909, the Huron National Forest was established and the Manistee National Forest was formed in 1938. In 1945, these two National Forests were administratively combined. Working hand in hand with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and other partners, the Forest Service has changed the "lands that nobody wanted" to healthy forests again. We've made great progress in recovering these lands but a great deal of work remains, much of which is being done through partnerships.

The National Forests of the United States belong to all of us and need our protection. There are many opportunities for interested people to become volunteers on the Huron-Manistee National Forests.

News and Notices

Lumberman's Monument Schedule of Events

Please visit our Events page to find the schedule for Lumberman's Monument and other activities across the forest!

Motor Vehicle Use Maps

Motor Vehicle Use Maps for the Mio Ranger District and Huron Shores Ranger District
(the combined Tawas and Harrisville Ranger Districts) are now available. Please go to our main Recreation Page for more information

Employment Postings

The Huron-Manistee will now be posting employment outreaches on the employment page. Please check for updates periodically.

Seasonal Recreation Information

Camping and Day Use Areas- A wide range of camping opportunities are available on the Huron-Manistee National Forests. There are 37 developed campgrounds and 2 Day Use Areas, in addition to over 25 primitive campgrounds. Dispersed camping in a tent is allowed in most areas of the forest.

Hiking, Horseback Riding - Over 330 miles of trails are available for hiking on the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Some of which are shared trails with horses. The hiking and horse trails are often linear, while the interpretive (nature) trails are usually loops of varied lengths.

Biking - There are over 100 miles of bike trails across the forest. Some trails are shared with hikers and horseback riders.

Off-Highway Vehicle Trails and Areas - The Huron-Manistee National Forest, in northern lower Michigan, provide ORV enthusiasts an opportunity to ride off road vehicles on superb forest trails. Following the legal guidelines will ensure the ride is safe and enjoyable. For questions relating to state laws and regulations please visit the MI-DNR website, you will also be able to obtain an ORV sticker and maps of state trails from this website.

Canoeing and Boating - There are 4 Nationally Designated Wild and Scenic Rivers on the Huron-Manistee National Forests and many other rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds. Canoeing and small boating (under 20hp and/or 26ft) are the most prevalent boating opportunities on water within the boundaries of the Huron-Manistee National Forest. Please visit the Michigan DNR website for detailed information on what is needed for legal boating in Michigan.