South Branch Trail Camp for the Shore to Shore Horseback and Hiking Trail

Hello, fellow Michigan outdoor enthusiasts! If your passion lies in exploring our state's vast wilderness on horseback or by foot, seeking out peaceful moments and truly immersing yourself in nature, then the South Branch Trail Camp is a destination you absolutely need to know about. Nestled in Hale, Michigan, within the beautiful Huron-Manistee National Forests, this campground serves as a vital stop along the famed 240-mile Michigan Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding and Hiking Trail. Unlike bustling, amenity-rich campgrounds, South Branch Trail Camp offers a uniquely quiet and rustic experience, catering especially to equestrians, but welcoming all who appreciate genuine tranquility and direct access to expansive trail systems.

Michigan's Shore-to-Shore Trail is an incredible testament to our state's commitment to outdoor recreation, offering a cross-state journey from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. Campgrounds like South Branch Trail Camp are integral to this epic adventure, providing essential, yet simple, facilities for those undertaking the journey or simply looking for a peaceful escape. Imagine waking up surrounded by oak and pine, with the gentle sounds of the forest as your alarm, ready to hit the trails or simply unwind in a serene setting. This guide is crafted specifically for you, the local Michigan adventurer, providing a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes South Branch Trail Camp a truly special and suitable spot for your next wilderness outing. Prepare to discover a hidden gem for quiet and authentic outdoor experiences!

South Branch Trail Camp is located at Rollway Rd, Hale, MI 48739, USA. This places it deep within the scenic Huron-Manistee National Forests in the northeastern Lower Peninsula of Michigan, making it an ideal base for exploring this vast natural area. The town of Hale, while not a large urban center, provides a convenient reference point for navigation.

Accessibility to South Branch Trail Camp is generally straightforward, particularly for a rustic campground of its type. It is located on Rollway Road, which is typically an unpaved forest road but usually well-maintained. Directions often indicate turning north on Rollways Road approximately 6 miles north of Hale (if traveling on M-65). While the roads are suitable for most vehicles, including those towing horse trailers, campers should always be prepared for dirt or gravel surfaces that can vary in condition depending on recent weather.

A key aspect of South Branch Trail Camp's accessibility is its direct connection to the Michigan Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding and Hiking Trail. This 240-mile trail system stretches across the Lower Peninsula, from Empire near Lake Michigan to Oscoda on Lake Huron. South Branch Trail Camp is strategically positioned along the eastern segment of this trail, making it a crucial stop for long-distance riders and hikers. For equestrian campers, the accessibility includes designated horse parking areas and picket posts within the campground itself, allowing for easy unloading and tending to horses. For hikers, the immediate trail access means you can step right out of your campsite and onto miles of scenic trails. The campground is also adjacent to the South Branch River and is not far from the Au Sable River, offering additional recreational access nearby. Its location also puts it within a short drive east to the magnificent Lake Huron.

South Branch Trail Camp is a rustic campground managed by the USDA Forest Service within the Huron-Manistee National Forests. As such, it offers essential, but limited, services designed to support a self-sufficient camping experience, particularly for equestrians and hikers. Campers should arrive prepared for a more basic setup compared to modern campgrounds. Here's what you can generally expect:

• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets, also known as pit toilets or "pot bathrooms" as described by a reviewer. These are non-flush facilities, and while basic, reviews suggest they are kept clean for a rustic camp setting.

• Potable Water (Hand Pump or Generator-Driven Pump): The campground typically provides access to potable water through a hand pump or, in some cases, an electric water pump that requires campers to furnish a 5,000-watt generator. Campers should be prepared with containers to collect and transport water to their sites.

• Garbage Bin: A shared garbage bin is usually available, which is a convenience not always found at primitive sites, helping campers properly dispose of their waste.

• Picket Posts: For equestrian campers, picket posts are provided, allowing for the tethering of horses safely and conveniently near campsites. This is a crucial amenity for horse owners.

• Fire Rings: Individual campsites typically include a fire ring for campfires, perfect for cooking or simply enjoying the warmth of a fire (always check for fire bans before lighting a fire).

• Parking: The campground offers ample parking, including a day-use horse parking area. The group site can accommodate up to 65 vehicles, indicating significant parking capacity.

• No Showers or Hookups: As a rustic site, there are no shower facilities, electrical hookups, water hookups, or sewer hookups for RVs. Campers should be fully self-contained if bringing an RV.

South Branch Trail Camp, despite its rustic nature, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a standout choice for specific types of Michigan campers:

• Direct Shore-to-Shore Trail Access: This is the paramount highlight. The campground is specifically designed to serve those utilizing Michigan's 240-mile Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding and Hiking Trail. This direct access means campers can immediately embark on extensive equestrian or hiking adventures, making it an ideal staging point or overnight stop for long-distance journeys.

• Equestrian-Friendly Focus: With dedicated horse parking and picket posts, South Branch Trail Camp prioritizes equestrian campers. This creates a welcoming and functional environment for horse owners, fostering a community among riders.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: As noted by past campers, the campground is often "very quiet and peaceful," even during holiday weekends. This provides a serene escape from noise and crowds, appealing to those seeking true tranquility in nature.

• Spacious, Grassy Sites: Reviews mention "huge and mostly grassy" sites. Large, open sites offer plenty of room for tents, RVs (though no hookups), and horse trailers, providing a comfortable and uncrowded camping experience.

• Beautiful Natural Surroundings: The campground is nestled within a picturesque stand of oak and pine trees, providing natural shade and the immersive feel of the forest. It's adjacent to the South Branch River and close to the Au Sable River, offering beautiful scenery and additional recreational opportunities.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being deep within the national forest and near river systems, the camp offers excellent chances for wildlife viewing, including various bird species and forest animals.

• Stargazing: Far from urban light pollution, the night skies over South Branch Trail Camp are incredibly dark, providing spectacular opportunities for stargazing.

• Group Site Availability: The campground features a large group site capable of holding up to 250 campers, making it suitable for organized equestrian groups, hiking clubs, or large family gatherings seeking a rustic experience.

South Branch Trail Camp for the Shore to Shore Horseback and Hiking Trail is managed by the USDA Forest Service as part of the Huron-Manistee National Forests. There is no direct line to the individual campsite, but general inquiries can be directed to the overseeing ranger station.

• Address: Rollway Rd, Hale, MI 48739, USA

• Phone: (989) 739-0728 (This number typically connects to the Huron Shores Ranger Station, which manages the area).

• Mobile Phone: +1 989-739-0728 (Same as above, standard format).

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to consult the official websites:

• USDA Forest Service Website (Huron-Manistee National Forests): Visit fs.usda.gov/hmnf and navigate to the recreation section for campgrounds, specifically looking for South Branch Trail Camp. This site will provide details on opening/closing dates (typically May 1 to mid-November), fees (often around $15/night), and any alerts or warnings.

• Recreation.gov: While single sites are often first-come, first-served, the group site at South Branch Trail Camp is reservable through Recreation.gov. You can check availability and make reservations there, and the platform often provides additional details about the campground.

Calling the Huron Shores Ranger Station is advisable for specific questions about current trail conditions, fire bans, or water availability at the hand pump, especially outside of peak season.

For Michiganders, South Branch Trail Camp for the Shore to Shore Horseback and Hiking Trail offers a truly unique and deeply suitable outdoor experience, particularly for those passionate about equestrian activities or long-distance hiking. This isn't your typical crowded family campground with playgrounds and paved roads; instead, it's a haven for those who seek tranquility, self-sufficiency, and direct access to expansive wilderness trails.

Its primary suitability for locals stems from its pivotal role as a key access point and overnight stop along the iconic Michigan Shore-to-Shore Trail. For Michigan horse riders, this camp is an essential and welcoming hub, providing the necessary facilities like picket posts and ample space to accommodate their equestrian needs. Hikers, too, will appreciate the immediate access to miles of scenic trails, offering a chance to truly stretch their legs and explore the diverse landscapes of the Huron-Manistee National Forests.

The "quiet and peaceful" atmosphere, even during holiday weekends, is a significant draw for Michiganders looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and reconnect with nature on a deeper level. The vast, grassy sites provide plenty of room, ensuring a sense of privacy that is often hard to find. While the reviews mention the natural presence of horses, which means campers should "watch your step," this is a minor trade-off for the authentic, rustic experience and the unique opportunity to share the trails with majestic equines. South Branch Trail Camp embodies the spirit of Michigan's wild lands, inviting locals to embrace a more traditional form of camping while pursuing their outdoor passions. If you're looking for a peaceful, trail-centric basecamp that truly celebrates Michigan's natural heritage, this is your spot.