Pere Marquette National Scenic River Watercraft Permits (Huron Manistee)

Overview:

In 1978, sixty-six miles of the Pere Marquette were designated a National Scenic River. The Pere Marquette River is the longest unregulated (no dams or impoundments) river system in Michiganâ??s Lower Peninsula. The river is a nationally known, high-quality stream supporting large populations of resident trout, steelhead and salmon.

The Pere Marquette River, within the Forestâ??s boundary, has been divided into three non-motorized watercraft segments: Segment 1 - Forks to Bowman Bridge; Segment 2 - Bowman Bridge to Upper Branch Bridge; and Segment 3 - Upper Branch Bridge to Indian Bridge. The riverâ??s characteristics and the setting vary by river segment. Someone wanting a recreation experience where there is a good chance of encountering others would enjoy Segment 1; those wanting the opportunity to experience more solitude would appreciate Segment 3.

Camping within the river corridor on National Forest lands is allowed only at designated sites. Sites range from developed campgrounds to primitive, canoe-in only sites. Fees for camping and using river access sites are charged under the Recreation Fee Enhancement Act. Check the bulletin board at each site for fees and additional information.

From Baldwin access to the start of Segment 1, M-37 Landing, go south on Highway M-37 for 2 miles and the launch is on left or east side of M-37. From Baldwin access to the start of Segment 2, Bowman Bridge, turn west on 52nd Street for 5 miles turn right or north into access site. From Baldwin access to Segment 3, Upper Branch Bridge, travel west on 52nd Street for 8.5 miles, turn right and travel north on South Branch Road for 3 miles and access site is on left.