58 Deward Tract

wildlife viewing  |  directions and facility information

Photo: Susan Thiel, MI DNR

This scenic and undeveloped area in the AuSable State Forest lies along the headwaters of the beautiful Manistee River. This site is tucked in the middle of the 4,700-acre DeWard Tract, a special management area created to protect the corridor along this top quality trout stream. Motorized vehicles are prohibited within this special tract except on roads posted as open. Camping is restricted to areas within 50 feet of the marked open roads. Several access roads throughout the DeWard Tract lead to informal parking areas. Foot trails from these parking areas provide access to the river for fishing and wildlife watching. Upland habitats range from open scrublands with pin cherry, grasses, scattered oak and pine, to densely planted red pine plantations and lowland cedar and balsam fir. Scattered areas of aspen occur along the riverbanks, which also contain of tag alder, cattail, willow, and other wetland species.

Wildlife Viewing

Photo: Susan Thiel, MI DNR

This stretch of the upper Manistee River is very scenic and pristine. In addition to the frogs, turtles, and trout that may be seen in the river, you also get to enjoy the great beauty of this wild, meandering, state-designated Natural River. Bring along some waders and walk gently through the riffles and eddies of this aquatic habitat. Raccoons, mink, beavers, and otters are quite common along the river corridor, as well as birds such as kingfishers, great blue herons, and northern water thrushes. The surrounding forests provide good wildlife viewing for forest songbirds, turkeys, squirrels, and deer if you’re willing to venture into the woods with a compass and map. Coyotes, bear, and bobcat are also found here.

This area is open to public hunting. Contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for affected seasons and locations.