Home › Michigan › Schoolcraft County

Manistique River - West Branch

Schoolcraft County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
1 launchFree launch available
Manistique River - West Branch Access Map 1 launch
Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Manistique River - West Branch
West Branch Boat Launch
Shingleton Forestry Management Unit · Carry-in only ramp, 0 lane
Open Kayak Free
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

The West Branch Manistique River rises in Alger County and flows southeast into the main Manistique River in Schoolcraft County, which drains into Lake Michigan at the town of Manistique. Its principal tributary is the Creighton River. Much of the river's course passes through wetlands within Lake Superior State Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the West Branch Manistique River?
It rises in Alger County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and flows southeast into Schoolcraft County, where it joins the main Manistique River. Most of its course runs through Lake Superior State Forest wetlands. Despite the state forest's name, the water ultimately flows into Lake Michigan.
Can you kayak or canoe the West Branch Manistique River?
Yes — there's one launch point providing river access. The river is described as a beautiful, meandering waterway winding through wetlands and state forest. Expect a slow, flat-water paddle through remote backcountry. Come prepared for bugs, especially in summer.
What fish are in the West Branch Manistique River?
As a U.P. river flowing through extensive wetlands and state forest, it likely holds brook trout in its upper reaches and warm-water species like pike and panfish in the slower, swampier stretches. Check current MDNR regulations for specific seasons and limits.
Is there camping near the West Branch Manistique River?
Yes — West Branch Campground is located nearby. The surrounding Lake Superior State Forest also offers dispersed camping opportunities. This is remote U.P. country, so plan to be self-sufficient.
Are there ORV trails near the West Branch Manistique River?
Yes, and they're a major draw. Reviewers visit multiple times a year specifically for the side-by-side and ORV trails through the state forest. Trails are reportedly well-groomed and offer spectacular scenery, especially during fall color season.
How bad are the bugs on the West Branch Manistique River?
They're noticeable — reviewers specifically mention bugs being "distracting." The river flows through extensive wetlands, which is prime mosquito and blackfly habitat. Head nets and bug spray are essential gear from late May through August.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

The West Branch Manistique River is a slow, meandering Upper Peninsula stream that rises in Alger County and flows southeast through Schoolcraft County before joining the main Manistique River — which ultimately drains into Lake Michigan despite flowing through Lake Superior State Forest. Much of its course winds through extensive wetlands and state forest land, giving it a remote, wild character. The single launch here serves as a put-in for paddlers exploring a quiet, swampy river corridor where you're more likely to see wildlife than other people.

The surrounding area is popular with ORV and side-by-side riders — trails through the state forest get consistently good reviews. West Branch Campground sits nearby for overnights. This isn't a lake destination; it's a river access point in deep U.P. backcountry. Expect bugs in summer (reviewers aren't shy about mentioning them), beautiful fall color, and genuine solitude. The Creighton River joins as the principal tributary upstream.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment

Know this lake?

Share fishing tips, seasonal patterns, or hazards to help other anglers.

Share Lake Intel →