A woman from California who was participating in a YouTube survival competition was found nearly 18 hours after getting lost in a chilly, rain-drenched forest in Michigan over the weekend, officials reported.
The 36-year-old, whose name has not been disclosed, vanished in Pigeon River Forest located in Charlton Township at approximately 5 p.m. on Friday. She had left the main camp area to look for water, according to the Otsego County Sheriff’s Office.
When she did not come back, the contest’s organizers initiated a search for her. After searching for around 12 hours, they reached out to 911 for assistance at around 5 a.m. on Saturday, as stated by the sheriff’s office.
Officials immediately launched a coordinated search effort involving multiple agencies.
Medical teams evaluated her at the scene and determined that she suffered no serious injuries.
Multiple agencies launched a search for the missing woman in Pigeon River Forest on Sept. 6, 2025. (Otsego County Emergency Management)
Authorities did not immediately name the show or say who was hosting the competition.
It was unclear whether the woman would continue to compete on the show.
