Recreation
The Forest Service waives recreation fees at most day-use sites on lands managed by the agency. Participation by concession-operated sites may vary. The 2025 dates are:
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 20, 2025
- National Get Outdoors Day June 14, 2025
- Juneteenth June 19, 2025
- National Public Lands Day September 27, 2025
- Veterans Day November 11, 2025
Know Before You Go
Pine River Rearing Run Path
Site Open
The picnic area is a Civilian Conservation Corps construction from the mid-1900's. This path is within a premier area for viewing Kirtland's warblers. Other recreation opportunities include hunting,…
Pines Point
Site Open
The canoe landing is walk-in. This site is popular for tubing on the White River during the summer, with a half-hour float around the peninsula located in the picnic area. This site is quiet and…
Podunk River Access
Site Open
This site is located in an open field surrounded by an oak and pine forest. A set of steps leads down to river.
Rainbow Bend Access Site
Site Open
The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians has a sturgeon rearing station on their property along the entrance road with bulletin boards interpreting the activities.This site is busiest during the…
Rainbow Rapids
Site Open
While parking is located at the top of the hill and can't be seen from the river, the boat launch is located down the hill. This site is the half-way point for the scenic corridor and is primarily…
Red Bridge River Access Site
Site Open
The name comes from an old wooden and steel bridge, painted red, that was located at the site. Now there is a modern cement structure. This site provides access to the Manistee River Trail. There is…
Reid Lake Foot Travel Area
Site Open
The Reid Lake Area is a little over 3,000 acres in size.The forest in the area is primarily hardwoods and creates a small, remote, lake environment. The lake is a small, 13-acres, with a variety of…
River Dune Campground
Site Open
Located between the Au Sable River Scenic Overlook and Au Sable Loop Campground, this small site is a short .5 mile walk from the gate. Set back from the road and camping area, campers can enjoy…
River Road National Scenic Byway
Site Open
The twenty-two mile River Road National Scenic Byway extends westward from Lake Huron into the Huron National Forest. It parallels the historic Riviere aux Sable (River of Sand). The Au Sable River…
River Road Trail Camp and Trailhead
Site Open
The campground for the Shore-to-Shore Trail is adjacent to River Road. There are picnic tables scattered throughout the site.The Shore-to-Shore Trail begins in Empire near Lake Michigan, on the…