About Insta Launch Campground & Marina
Insta Launch Campground & Marina sits on the Big Manistee River where it reaches the north end of Manistee Lake, with boat access out to Lake Michigan. Jim and Debbie Baldwin host the campground, which caters heavily to anglers and boaters.
Camping runs from April 1 to mid-November. Sites range from primitive to full hook-up, including pull-through and seasonal sites, and there are cabins and rental trailers for people without their own rig. Boat slips take boats up to 24 feet, rental boats are available, and the free WiFi helps on longer stays.
Fishing drives the calendar here. The river and lakes hold king and coho salmon, steelhead, brown and lake trout, bass, northern pike, walleye and perch. The camp store stocks tackle, bait, groceries, camping supplies and fishing licenses, and scoops hand-dipped ice cream. River float trips can be arranged through a local paddle outfitter.
Cherry Hill Lavender Farm near Frankfort is about 40 minutes north along the lakeshore, an easy day trip along the lakeshore from a Manistee campsite.
What to do
- Fish the Big Manistee River for salmon and steelhead
- Launch or slip a boat up to 24 feet with access to Lake Michigan
- Rent a boat for the day
- Stay in a cabin or rental trailer
- Pick up bait, licenses and ice cream at the camp store
Season, hours and prices
- Season
- Camping April 1 to mid-November
Good to know
- Reservations
- Recommended
Tips for your visit
- Seasonal full hook-up sites are offered for long stays
- Fishing licenses are sold at the camp store
Pair it with a lavender farm
Cherry Hill Lavender Farm · about 40 minutes away
Cherry Hill Lavender Farm is about 40 minutes north, an easy day trip from a Manistee campsite.
Getting there
Questions
When is the campground open?
April 1 to mid-November.
Can I keep a boat there?
Yes, slips fit boats up to 24 feet.
Do they sell bait and licenses?
Yes, at the camp store.
🗺️ Part of the guide Things to Do Near the Lavender Farm of Frankfort & Benzie County, Michigan
Checked in October 2026 against the business’s own website. Hours and seasons change, so check with them before you go. How we check listings · Is this your business? Claim it free
