Crawford County, in the heart of Northern Michigan, is dotted with forests, lakes and rivers. The area’s wild landscape and many outdoor activities make Crawford a popular destination for vacationers throughout the year. Visitors can find both out of the way campgrounds and campgrounds closer to the action.
River Camping
Crawford County is the host to the headwaters of two major Michigan Rivers. The AuSable River is famed for its fishing, canoeing, kayaking and overall natural beauty. It winds 120 miles from Fredrick, in the northern part of the county, through Grayling and flows east, emptying into Lake Huron in Oscoda. Several campgrounds are located along the river, some of which are only accessible from the river. These camps are more remote and offer campers a quiet, care-free experience which many visitors enjoy.
The Manistee River flows southwest through the west side of the county. Campgrounds are also available along the river and cater to both canoe and car campers.
Lake Camping
Several lakes in the area, both small and large, are popular camping destinations for summer visitors. Lake Margarethe, the largest lake in the county, offers boating, fishing, swimming and beach-going opportunities. Lake Margarethe State Forest Campground is set on the northern bank of the lake and features a boat launch and great fishing.
Smaller lakes where visitors can set up camp include Jones Lake and Shupac Lake State Forest Campgrounds. These lakes offer fishing and boating opportunities as well as forested surroundings fit for hikers and ATVs.
Trail Camping
Hikers traveling through the county will find several on-trail campgrounds along the two major hiking paths that run through the area. The shore-to-shore hiking and equestrian trail, is a 400-mile path from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. Travelers coming from the west will first encounter Goose Creek Trail Camp. The camp is also a convenient site for ATV riders. One mile to the east, campers will find 29 miles of ATV and cycle trails, which is ideal for snowmobiling during the winter months.
Further east along the shore-to-shore trail is Walsh Road Equestrian State Forest Camp Ground and Trail Camp. This camp offers only nine sites and is directly adjacent to the main trail. Fishing and a boat launch are also available at the camp.
Another camp designed for shore-to-shore travelers is the Four Mile Trail Camp nine miles southeast of Grayling. The camp can accommodate up to 200 campers and is set up for equestrian use.
A popular trail in the area is the Mason Tract Pathway, which runs parallel to the south branch of the AuSable River. Hikers traveling the path can find camping opportunities at Canoe Harbor State Forest Campgrounds.
State Park Camping
A well-known destination for many Michigan travelers is Hartwick Pines State Forest Campground. Hartwick Pines is the only modern state run campground in the county, with shower and bathroom facilities as well as electrical hookups. The park itself offers miles of hiking trails and historical logging exhibits.
RV Camping
Several private campgrounds in Crawford County offer facilities more attractive to RV campers. Electrical hookups, on-site stores, restaurants and closer proximity to towns where summer festivals and activities occur are some of the benefits of these private facilities.
Three of the most popular private campgrounds in the area include Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Campground, Happi Days Diner and Campground and River Park Campgrounds.
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