The Forest Trail Music Festival 2025 is back in Free Soil, Michigan, offering three days of live music, camping, and community spirit in the heart of the Manistee National Forest. Running from August 22–24, 2025, with early access on August 21, this family-friendly event combines grassroots performances with outdoor adventure, creating a unique summer escape.
Since its founding in 2020 by brothers Noah and Bryce Cameron, the festival has remained committed to affordability and authenticity. Unlike commercialized events, Forest Trail focuses on fairness—most ticket sales go directly to the artists, ensuring that music remains at the heart of the experience.
Lineup and Musical Experience
The 2025 edition boasts an exciting roster of Americana, folk, bluegrass, and roots performers. Headliners include:
- Myron Elkins
- The Gasoline Gypsies
- Brother Crowe
- Candid Antics
- Mark Lavengood Band
- Nathan Walton and The Remedy
The festival begins with early access on August 21, featuring Grace Theisen and a lively community jam session. Friday kicks off with all-day performances, highlighted by The Gasoline Gypsies. Saturday offers morning yoga followed by sets from Brother Crowe and Myron Elkins, while Sunday wraps up with Travis Hyma, the Seth Brown Duo, and Elizabeth Reed.
Beyond the music, visitors can participate in tie-dye workshops, yoga sessions, and community jams, making the event as interactive as it is entertaining.
The Perfect Venue: Free Soil and Manistee National Forest
Set in the quiet town of Free Soil, Michigan, the festival venue at 352 W. Forest Trail Road is surrounded by the serene beauty of the Manistee National Forest. This location offers both music and a natural retreat, with hiking trails, towering trees, and fresh air creating an idyllic backdrop.
Festival-goers can set up tents or bring RVs, making the experience a full weekend getaway. The natural setting encourages relaxation between performances, as visitors can wander through the forest or enjoy peaceful evenings under starry skies.
Camping, Lodging, and Travel
Camping is included with general admission tickets, giving attendees the chance to immerse themselves in nature. RV passes are also available, though larger vehicles require advance booking. For travelers who prefer off-site stays, nearby Manistee offers hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Rustic cabins and campgrounds in the region provide another option for those wanting to extend their trip.
The festival site is accessible via Manistee County Blacker Airport, just a short drive away. Travelers coming from outside Michigan can fly into Grand Rapids, Detroit, or Chicago and then enjoy a scenic drive through the state’s countryside to reach Free Soil.
A Family-Friendly Festival
Unlike many large-scale music events, Forest Trail is designed with families in mind. A dedicated kids’ zone includes craft stations, games, and musical activities for younger visitors. The welcoming atmosphere ensures that attendees of all ages can enjoy the weekend together. This focus on inclusivity has helped the festival build a reputation as one of Michigan’s most community-driven events.
Ticket Options and Pricing
The festival prides itself on affordability. Tickets for 2025 include:
- General Admission: $75 (includes weekend camping)
- Early Admission Upgrade: $30 (for August 21 entry)
- Single-Day Passes: Starting at $30
- RV/Camper Pass (20+ ft): $50 (limited availability)
Organizers also encourage community engagement by offering merchandise bundles to those who bring along first-time guests, further strengthening the event’s grassroots spirit.
Why Forest Trail Music Festival Stands Out
What makes the Forest Trail Music Festival unique is its blend of music, nature, and community. Attendees aren’t just spectators—they’re participants in a celebration of creativity and connection. From singing around campfires to exploring the trails of Manistee National Forest, every moment blends music with the great outdoors.
The festival also supports local talent and businesses, reinforcing its role as a community-first gathering rather than a commercial enterprise. Visitors leave with not only memories of live performances but also a sense of belonging to something bigger.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit Summer Event
As summer 2025 approaches, the Forest Trail Music Festival is shaping up to be one of Michigan’s most unforgettable events. For music lovers, outdoor adventurers, and families, it offers an ideal combination of live performances, camping, and natural beauty.
Mark your calendars for August 22–24, 2025, and prepare to experience an event that captures the essence of Michigan’s summer: music under the trees, nights by the fire, and a community bound by song.
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