Tippy Dam State Recreation Area

We found this State Forest Campground by accident and it was our good fortune. We stayed in #1 for 3 nights starting on July 5. It was one of fifteen first come, first serve sites in this 40 site campground. DNR has passport and $17 a night.

Our site overlooked the lake and had a trail leading to the water. A perfect spot to camp and kayak. The site was large with another site on only one side. Relatively level (we were able to find level without blocks) with a fire ring and picnic table. There were pit toilets someplace but we never needed to use them.

This campground is for those who can go with hook ups.

Good LTE cell service.

Situated on the water in Manistee National Forest. Lots of trees but well-maintained. Loved that our site was spaces away from the others. I would choose site #37 or 38 for the view, space and hiking trails. Our dog loved the location. Site #1 has a beautiful water view and so does the cabin. We could see the eater from our site and we were also steps from the shared stairs down to the water but the cabin view was spectacular. Lots of great hiking, biking, kayaking and fishing. Fishing at the river’s edge is a big thing in this area. Sawdust Hole is worth the checking out. Dirt road to end at small hike to river with shallow waters and beautiful scenery.

Nice small campground in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. Can’t really say there’s a bad site in the CG. Some are slightly larger than others, but all are good size and have tree cover. If you need/want solar access, I would choose a site in the lower numbers. The sites in and closer to the culdesac have thicker tree cover.

No water spigots within the CG, however you can fill up your fresh water tank at the maintenance shed just past the check in station. You will need to provide your own hose.

Two sets of vault toilets in the CG.

Generators are allowed until 10pm.

No firewood sales in the CG, however there are several locals selling wood near the road on your way in.

Our trailer is 25’ long and we easily fit. No issues at all.

We have AT&T & Sprint/T-mobile phones. AT&T was stronger…3 to 4 bars LTE. Sprint was 1 bar, sometimes 2.

I’m giving the CG a 4 star rating. We had no issues and enjoyed our stay. IMO 3 stars is average, so I’m giving this particular CG an above average rating.

PS - if you’re a MTB I recommend hitting Big M and Arcadia Dunes while you’re here.