The Little Manistee River rises in the southeast corner of Ellsworth Township in Lake County and flows 64.6 miles west-northwest to its mouth at the southeast end of Manistee Lake in Manistee County. Manistee Lake connects to Lake Michigan, making the Little Manistee part of the broader Manistee River watershed. The cold-water connection to the Great Lakes is what drives the river's significant salmon and steelhead runs.
How long is the Little Manistee River?
Can you kayak or canoe the Little Manistee River?
Where is the Little Manistee River?
Are there campgrounds near the Little Manistee River?
Is there a fee to launch on the Little Manistee River?
Can you swim in the Little Manistee River?
How does the Little Manistee compare to the Big Manistee River?
The Little Manistee River isn't a lake — it's a 64.6-mile river flowing west-northwest from Lake County to Manistee Lake in Manistee County, and it's one of Michigan's most important steelhead and salmon streams. The river is a tributary of the Manistee River system, with cold, clear water and a sand-gravel bottom that creates prime spawning habitat. Fall salmon runs and spring steelhead runs draw serious anglers from across the state. Four public access points are spread along the river, mostly serving kayakers, canoeists, and wade fishermen rather than motorized boats.
Beyond the fishing, the Little Manistee is a quality paddle river — clean water, scenic banks, and crossings with the North Country Trail. Reviewers consistently note it's cleaner and quieter than the Big Manistee. The upper stretches (above 6 Mile Road) can be challenging with downed trees and tight turns, so experienced paddlers will enjoy it more than beginners. The area around Irons and the national forest land offers several nearby campgrounds including Bear Track, Sand Lake, and Old Grade. Access points are basic — expect pit toilets and gravel parking, not developed facilities.