Manistee National Forest

Established in 1938, the Manistee National Forest is massive in size, with more than 540,000 acres of land. Make the short drive from Ludington at any time of year and enjoy beautiful northwestern Michigan.

From the snowmobile trails during the winter, to the boating and fishing Woodland Lake, or Big Star Lake – just two of many lakes within the forest.

While you may not be able to explore the entirety of Manistee National Forest, be sure to spend some time within the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness.

A chunk of about 3,450 acres set within Manistee National Forest, the Nordhouse Dunes provide excellent access to sections of Lake Michigan's eastern shore.