Nestled within the Huron-Manistee National Forest, Matson's Lodge is located on the Big Manistee River in Manistee Michigan. The lodge has 6 spacious bedrooms with two queen size beds, 5 full size beds and two twins. Two large bathrooms and two fully equipped kitchens with three refrigerators for all of your food and beverages. Enjoy cooking outdoors under the awning on a charcoal grill while you relax on the patio furniture or picnic table. The lodge offers three TV’s with Direct TV programming offering 150 channels for all ages which can be enjoyed in one of two living rooms or the Master bedroom. All linens and towels are provided, but ask that you bring your own beach towels.
(The lodge has two complete living areas, so if your family or group only needs 3 bedrooms you may rent one half of the lodge for a reduced rate of $150 or $160. Depending on which side you choose, the back half will sleep up to 9 people in 3 bedrooms or the front half will sleep up to 7 people. Both sides have their own kitchen and bathroom as well. Please contact owner by email regarding dates and rate change before booking.)
In the evening, family and friends can gather around the large firepit complete with comfortable chairs and a glider bench. Many stories have been shared as our guest enjoy the warmth and glow a campfire.
The Big Manistee River has been designated as one of the US Forestry's Wild and Scenic rivers in Michigan. Enjoy the great outdoors and the beauty of nature by renting a canoe, kayak, tube, or fishing boat (or bring your own) and float down the Big Manistee River. River trips are available through Matson's Campground; when taking a trip, your group is shuttled up river to a drop off spot and float back to the lodge. Be sure to reserve your kayak, canoe or tubes early to ensure availability when you book your reservation.
Wildlife abound with Bald eagles, whitetail deer, birds of many species, and maybe a sighting of a bear. If you enjoy fishing, the Big Manistee River is well known for some of the world's greatest salmon and steelhead. Other species include walleye, northern pike, bass, and brown trout. Many master anglers have been caught on the Big Manistee River, in fact the world largest brown trout was caught up river from our place!
Other amenities in the area include beautiful Lake Michigan, Historic Victorian City of Manistee, several Golf courses and Little River Casino is just 15 minutes away.
If you forgot something, Matson’s Campground offers a convenience store, ice, campfire wood and other amenities. The adjacent campground is a family owned business for 28 years which also offers additional cabins and campsites.