Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

For Michigan locals seeking a pristine and feature-rich camping experience that beautifully balances modern conveniences with profound natural immersion, Hartwick Pines State Park Campground in Grayling, MI, is an absolute must-visit. Renowned as one of the largest and most captivating state parks in the Lower Peninsula, Hartwick Pines offers a unique opportunity to camp amidst a rare 49-acre stand of old-growth white pine forest, a truly majestic sight that transports you to Michigan's past. As one delighted camper enthusiastically shared, it's an "Absolute beautiful campground. I love the spacing and privacy you have between sites. So rare❤️"

This campground isn't just about beautiful scenery; it's a hub for diverse outdoor activities and boasts excellent facilities. From extensive paved bike trails perfect for a leisurely ride to a huge shower house and even some modern full hookup sites for larger RVs, Hartwick Pines caters to a wide range of campers. The park is a natural wonderland waiting to be explored, whether you're hiking the tranquil Au Sable River trail, marveling at the towering pines, or simply enjoying the privacy of your campsite. If you're a Michigan resident looking for a memorable family camping trip, a serene retreat into nature, or an active outdoor adventure, Hartwick Pines State Park Campground promises a truly rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Hartwick Pines State Park Campground is strategically located at Camp Lavictore Rd, Grayling, MI 49738, USA. This prime position places it just northeast of Grayling, in Crawford County, within the heart of Northern Michigan. Its accessibility makes it a convenient destination for many Michigan residents looking to escape into nature.

Access to Hartwick Pines State Park is generally very easy via paved roads. From I-75, north of Grayling, visitors can take exit 259 and head north on M-93 for about 3 miles directly to the park entrance. This well-maintained road ensures smooth travel for all vehicle types, from passenger cars to large RVs and trailers. Once inside the park, the campground is clearly signposted.

A significant highlight of its location is the seamless integration with the park's extensive trail system. Campers will find "no shortage of hiking and biking trails and they are all within walking distance or adjacent to the campground." This means immediate access to adventures like the famous Old Growth Forest Trail, which is paved and "easy to navigate," allowing visitors of all mobility levels to experience the towering ancient pines. Furthermore, a paved, non-motorized trail, the Grayling Bicycle Turnpike, extends 10 miles from the park entrance, connecting Hartwick Pines to downtown Grayling and even Hanson Hills Recreation Area, offering excellent opportunities for longer bike rides directly from your campsite. The park also provides easy access to the East Branch of the Au Sable River, with trails crossing the river twice, allowing for scenic views and peaceful moments by the water, as one reviewer cherished while watching the snow fall. This combination of easy road access and immediate entry to diverse recreational trails makes Hartwick Pines State Park Campground exceptionally well-located for a comprehensive Michigan outdoor experience.

Hartwick Pines State Park Campground is a modern campground that boasts a comprehensive array of services and amenities, designed to enhance comfort and convenience for all campers. These facilities cater to a wide range of camping styles, from tenters to large RVs:

• Numerous Campsites: The modern campground offers 101 sites, providing a variety of options including open-air, pull-through, and wooded sites. Many sites offer "nice privacy from neighboring sites," as noted by campers, which is a rare and highly valued feature.

• Electrical Service: All sites are equipped with 20/30 amp electrical service. For those with larger rigs or higher power needs, sites #65-100 specifically provide full hookups with 50-amp service, ensuring a comfortable stay for travel trailers and motorhomes.

• Full Hookup Sites: A significant advantage is the availability of "modern full hookup sites for travel trailers," which include water, electric, and sewer connections, offering maximum convenience for RV campers.

• Modern Restrooms and Shower Houses: The campground features "huge" and "very clean bath house" facilities with multiple showers, restroom facilities, and a family restroom, providing a high level of comfort and hygiene for all campers.

• Sanitation Station: A dedicated sanitation station is located within the modern campground, offering potable water and two lanes for easy RV dumping before departure.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, ideal for outdoor cooking, gathering around a campfire, and enjoying meals in the natural setting.

• Playground Facilities: While one reviewer noted not seeing a playground directly within the campground, official sources confirm a small playground featuring slides, bars, and swings located in the day-use area of the park, within easy reach for families with children.

• Recreational Courts: The campground offers a sand volleyball court and a basketball area, providing opportunities for active recreation right on site.

• Concession/Store: For convenience, firewood and ice are available for sale at the campground office or contact station.

• Boat Rental: Kayaks are available for rent at the park's contact station, offering easy access to Bright and Glory lakes for paddling.

• Visitor Center: The accessible Hartwick Pines Visitor Center serves as a popular conduit to the old-growth forest, offering educational exhibits, maps, and helpful park staff.

Hartwick Pines State Park Campground boasts an array of exceptional features and highlights that distinguish it as a premier camping destination in Michigan:

• Majestic Old-Growth Pine Forest: The park is home to a rare 49-acre stand of virgin white pines, some soaring over 120 feet tall, providing an awe-inspiring natural cathedral that is the park's "big draw and for very good reason." The accessible, paved Old Growth Forest Trail makes this natural wonder easily navigable for all visitors.

• Exceptional Site Spacing and Privacy: Campers consistently praise the "spacing and privacy you have between sites. So rare❤️" This ensures a peaceful and intimate camping experience, allowing visitors to truly relax and enjoy their natural surroundings without feeling crowded.

• Extensive Trail Network: The park offers "no shortage of hiking and biking trails" for all skill levels. This includes the paved Grayling Bicycle Turnpike, a 10-mile multi-use trail connecting the park to Grayling, and various footpaths like the Au Sable River trail, which crosses the river twice and offers serene views and calming sounds.

• Modern Campground Amenities: Unlike many rustic state parks, Hartwick Pines features "modern full hookup sites for travel trailers," along with a "huge" and clean shower house, ensuring a comfortable stay even for larger RVs. All sites have 20/30 amp electrical service, with some offering 50-amp service.

• Four Seasons of Beauty and Recreation: As evidenced by a reviewer waking up to snow and hiking at daybreak, the park's beauty and recreational opportunities extend beyond the summer months, offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, and stunning scenery year-round.

• Proximity to Au Sable River: The park's trails lead to the East Branch of the Au Sable River, renowned for its beauty and excellent fishing opportunities. This offers a serene escape and additional recreational possibilities beyond the campground.

• Hartwick Pines Logging Museum: Located along the Old Growth Forest Trail, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Michigan's 19th-century logging era, offering educational exhibits and historical context to the park's natural features.

• Accessible Features: The paved Old Growth Forest Trail and accessible fishing piers on Bright and Glory Lakes ensure that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the park's most significant natural and recreational assets.

As a Michigan State Park Campground, Hartwick Pines operates under a standardized system managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). While traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically offered, the value comes from its accessible pricing and consistent quality. Here's what Michigan locals should know:

Camping Fees: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground is a modern campground with electrical hookups and some full hookup sites. Rates for these sites typically range from $30-$40 per night, with full hookup sites usually on the higher end. For instance, recent reviews indicate nightly rates around $38-$51 for various sites. These fees are competitive for the level of amenities and the quality of the park experience. Always check the official DNR website (MiDNRReservations.com) for the most current pricing.

Reservations: Unlike many rustic state forest campgrounds, reservations for Hartwick Pines State Park Campground are highly recommended, especially during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) and weekends. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance online through MiDNRReservations.com or by calling their central reservation system. This ensures you secure your preferred site and is crucial given the campground's popularity, as noted by the "highly recommend!" review.

Michigan Recreation Passport: A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Hartwick Pines State Park, as it is for all Michigan state parks and recreation areas. Michigan residents can purchase this annual pass for a discounted rate when renewing their license plate tabs through the Secretary of State. Alternatively, it can be purchased at the park entrance for a slightly higher fee. This pass provides unlimited access to all of Michigan’s state parks for an entire year, making it an excellent investment for frequent park visitors.

Veteran and Senior Discounts: While specific details for Hartwick Pines aren't listed, many Michigan DNR campgrounds offer discounts for veterans and seniors on camping fees. It's always worth inquiring about these potential savings when booking or checking in.

The "promotion" here is the unparalleled value of a well-maintained, amenity-rich campground nestled within an iconic natural preserve, all accessible through a straightforward reservation system and the highly beneficial Recreation Passport.

For all inquiries and to plan your visit to Hartwick Pines State Park Campground, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is your primary resource. Their staff at the park headquarters can provide comprehensive and up-to-date information.

Park Address: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground Camp Lavictore Rd, Grayling, MI 49738, USA

Phone Numbers: Main Park Phone: (989) 348-7068 This number connects directly to the Hartwick Pines State Park headquarters, where staff can assist with general park information, trail conditions, and specific campground questions.

Michigan State Park Central Reservations: 1-800-447-2757 (1-800-44-PARKS) Use this number for making campsite reservations or for inquiries about the reservation process. Online reservations are also available.

Website for Reservations: MiDNRReservations.com This online portal is the most convenient way to check site availability and make reservations for Hartwick Pines State Park Campground.

Website for General Park Information: Michigan.gov/HartwickPines or Michigan.gov/DNR These official DNR websites provide detailed information on park facilities, activities, visitor center hours, and any current alerts or advisories.

It is strongly recommended to contact the park directly or check the DNR websites before your visit, especially for the latest information on campsite availability, fire restrictions, trail conditions, or any special programs being offered at the Michigan Forest Visitor Center or Logging Museum. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience at this beautiful Michigan State Park.

Hartwick Pines State Park Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for Michigan locals, offering a comprehensive and deeply satisfying outdoor experience that caters to a wide array of preferences. Its combination of profound natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and well-maintained modern amenities makes it perfectly suited for residents across the state.

For families, the "spacing and privacy you have between sites" means a more relaxed and enjoyable stay, while the paved bike trails and proximity to the Au Sable River offer endless opportunities for wholesome outdoor fun. The availability of "modern full hookup sites" also makes it an accessible and comfortable option for those with RVs, allowing more Michigan families to enjoy the state's natural treasures without sacrificing convenience.

Beyond the amenities, the true draw for locals is the unparalleled access to one of Michigan's last stands of old-growth pines. The chance to "get lost in the natural beauty" of these ancient trees, as one reviewer described, is a powerful experience that reconnects residents with the state's rich natural heritage. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen cyclist, a history enthusiast eager to visit the Logging Museum, or simply someone seeking a tranquil escape to recharge, Hartwick Pines State Park Campground offers it all. It’s a cherished Michigan gem that continually delivers on its promise of a beautiful, engaging, and memorable outdoor adventure for its own residents.