Canoeing The Pine River

CoolWaters on the Pine River

If you are bringing your own canoe or kayak, canoe permits are required May 15 through September 10. To make a reservation or obtain a permit, call the Baldwin National Forest Ranger Station. 231-745-4631.

We can help you spot you car at your end destination. Call for current Car Spotting Prices.

CoolWaters on the Pine River

Canoeing the Pine River

The Pine River is a beautiful and challenging river. It has one of the fastest flows in all of Michigan and has some exciting small rapids. This makes it a challenging and exciting river to paddle. It is recommended you have someone in your group with canoe experience. It does have some Class I-II rapids.

CoolWaters Campground Landing is located between Dobson Bridge and High School Bridge. Click here for 

Check with these local canoe liveries for rental availability and river info:

Bosman’s (877) 6-canoes

Horina Canoe Rental (231) 862-3470

CoolWaters campground is the perfect overnight spot along the Pine River for 2, or 3 day trips. We have an canoe landing that you can end your day of canoeing and walk to your campsite!

Courtesy water craft hours on the river are 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. This gives the fisherman ample time to experience the river.

Respect private property and the rights of others visiting the Pine. Operating a water craft under the influence is a violation and is enforced. The Forest Service and Pine River Livery Association have established a voluntary 4-can limit of alcoholic beverage per person. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Hiking & Biking

SCENIC

There are many great hiking and biking trails in the area, all travel through the scenic Manistee National Forest. Within 30 minutes of Coolwaters Campground are four of Michigans most beautiful hiking and biking trails.

Great Fishing

PINE RIVER

The Pine River is a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream with strains of native Brown Trout. It is a pristine and natural river, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing.

Activities

NORTHERN MICHIGAN

Northern Michigan is full of outdoor recreation and the Cadillac area is at the heart of it all. There are activities for every season!

Canoeing

PINE RIVER

The Pine River is a beautiful and challenging river. It has one of the fastest flows in all of Michigan and has some exciting small rapids. This makes it a challenging and exciting river to paddle.

PERFECT SPOT

Located right in the thick of it.

Located in the heart of Northern Michigan outdoor activities! We are centrally located 20 minutes from Cadillac, 45 minutes from Traverse City, and only 30 minutes from Lake Michigan. We are surrounded by hundreds of acres of National Forest, packed with great opportunities for Hunting, Fishing, Morel Mushrooms, Hiking & Biking, and relaxing. We welcome Off Road Vehicles, and you can ride from the campground to Lincoln Hills ORV Trail System.

Directions to CoolWaters

  • Located 2 miles south of M-55, and 2 miles east of M-37