A 36-year-old California woman was rescued Saturday morning after spending nearly 18 hours lost in Michigan’s Pigeon River State Forest during a YouTube survival contest. The contestant left base camp Friday around 5pm to search for water but never returned. Contest organizers searched unsuccessfully before calling 911 around 5am Saturday, according to the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office. Ground crews, canines, and a Michigan State Police helicopter joined the search effort. The helicopter spotted her around 10:40am in a swampy area where she was waving among trees and bushes. She suffered no serious injuries and walked out with ground officers’ guidance. MSP Lieutenant Ashley Miller said eight contestants were participating in a five-day challenge in the heavily forested area with “absolutely no cellular service” that is “very hard to navigate at times.” (Story URL)
YouTube Survival Contestant Rescued After 18 Hours Lost In Michigan Forest
Sep 8, 2025 | 8:01 PM