Paddling our Rivers in Manistee County

Looking to find that perfect river to float?  Well you are in luck, we have many fantastic paddling or floating rivers.  The Little Manistee River, Big Manistee River, Pine River are great paddling rivers for all experience levels.  If you are looking for a lazy day float, try the lower half of Bear Creek in the late summer/early fall for great fall color!   Browse any of these great rivers below!

Your River Adventures. #MyManistee

Explore the Rivers in the Manistee County Area

With 250+ river miles to explore… there is no shortage of paddling and fishing opportunities on the rivers of Manistee. Here you will find a complete list of rivers in our region and recommended routes, trips and float times.

River Tips and Recommendations


 

Best River for Families:  Big Manistee River – This top Michigan river is ideal for families traveling to the region, as it is wide and there are plenty of rental liveries servicing the various segments.

 


 

Best River for Experienced Paddlers: Pine River – This river contains some of the only white water in the Lower Peninsula.  This river is frequented by expert paddlers throughout the season, however, the early spring thaw attracts many from around the Midwest as this is the time of year when the river is at its swiftest current.

 


 

Best River for a Tube/Float: Little Manistee River – This great river, is shallow and is great for those looking for a quick 2-3 hour afternoon float.

 

EXPLORE OUR WATERWAYS

Download a complete guide to all of the rivers in Manistee County. Included you will find float times/charts and GPS locations for each access site.
Download a Map of all the Manistee County Rivers

Watercraft Rentals

No Watercraft? No Problem… search our great rental liveries and companies serving the waterways around Manistee County.

Found 3 listings

 

Follow the travelers that love Manistee County, enjoy these stories about our incredible outdoor recreation, things-to-do, dining, shopping and unique experiences you will ONLY find here.

Browse our latest #MyManistee perspectives here, or scroll through these top stories in your category.

Music & Events

Live music and events are not hard to find in Manistee County! Between free concerts throughout the week, community heritage days, and signature events, #MyManistee has a little something for everyone.LIVE MUSIC IN #MYMANISTEEOnekama Concerts in the Park - Monday...

Top 5 Ways to Winter

Northern Michigan winter adventure abounds in Manistee County, featuring more than 245 miles of trails, 80 deep water inland lakes, and 4 river streams.  Whether you are trying your hand at a new winter sport or are a seasoned winter warrior, you will find plenty of...

Nature & Pet Friendly Parks in Manistee County

Traveling with your four legged companions is becoming more and more of a norm in the travel world, so rest assured that we have places that welcome your pets. A top beach in the Manistee Area would be the North Beach Access.  Perfect, out of the way, and...

Top 5 Unique Fall Finds for 2020

There are more ways to experience fall color than just by car or bike. Here is your TOP 5 #MyManistee "Unique Ways to Explore Fall" this fall color season in Northern Michigan.   1) Scenic Airplane Tour Take a Scenic Airplane Ride with Orchard Beach Aviation....

Discover River Country

Home to 3 major rivers, it isn’t hard to figure out how this region earned its name. Our southern-most region is the ideal destination for those seeking a place to launch their watercraft, anglers looking for a place to cast a line, and hikers and bikers ready to take...

A Wedding Weekend in Manistee County

It’s a place you never thought of and the wedding you’ve always dreamed of. It’s the shoreline wedding with soft, sandy beaches and a deep blue water horizon that stretches as far as you can see, or the woodland wedding with rolling hills of green and an...

Can’t Miss Family Stops

Something Fun for All Let’s get our hands dirty, breathe in some fresh air out on the trails or take flight. Kids of all ages will find something to spark their curiosity and get inspired in #MyManistee.Time for a Swim First Street Beach - This beach has all of the...

Find Yourself in Farms and Forests

Welcome to the Farms & Forests region, home to diverse natural resources where you can visit and orchard, explore historic sites, and get out on the water all in the same day. Let us show you how!Paddle the River Start your morning by launching your watercraft on...

Fishing the Lakes & Rivers of Manistee

Fresh Water Fishing at Its Best! Whether you prefer casting on a serene river or prefer a big lake charter, every season of the year brings big fishing adventure in #MyManistee.On the Lakes  Lake Michigan Imagine yourself sitting at the bow of a boat, wind in...

Explore the North Coast

Follow the M22 Pure Michigan Scenic By-way to the North Coast Region. Home to scenic vistas, farm markets, sandy beaches, world-class golf, and plenty of trails to wander, this region is the perfect destination for those seeking fun and sun in the great outdoors.Power...