Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp

Are you a Michigan adventurer seeking a truly immersive experience in the heart of our state's natural beauty? Look no further than Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp. Tucked away in the serene landscapes of Grand Traverse County, this rustic campground offers a unique retreat for campers, hikers, bikers, and especially equestrian enthusiasts. Known for its direct access to extensive trail systems and the tranquil shores of Lake Dubonnet, it's a prime destination for those looking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with Michigan's wild side. This article will provide you with all the essential details about Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp, helping you plan your next unforgettable outdoor escape.

Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp provides a quintessential Michigan outdoor experience, emphasizing simplicity and a deep connection to nature. Unlike more developed campgrounds, Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp offers a rustic setting, perfect for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the forest and the quiet solitude of a lakeside retreat. It’s particularly renowned as a key stop along the Michigan Shore-to-Shore Trail, making it a beloved destination for horseback riders and long-distance hikers.

The campground sits amidst towering pines, with the gentle lapping of Lake Dubonnet providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay. While it’s designed to be a trail camp, accommodating larger groups and those with horses, it also welcomes individual campers seeking a peaceful, traditional camping experience. Imagine waking up to the fresh Michigan air, spending your days exploring miles of trails, and ending your evenings by a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. This is the authentic, rugged charm that Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp offers to every Michigander looking for a true wilderness adventure, yet still within reach of familiar communities.

Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp is conveniently located at 375 Gonder Rd, Interlochen, MI 49643, USA. This places it approximately 5 miles northwest of the charming village of Interlochen, a well-known cultural and recreational hub in Northern Michigan. For those familiar with the area, it's easily accessible via M-137, US-31, and Gonder Road, making it a straightforward drive from various parts of the state.

Its strategic location in Grand Traverse County means campers are within a reasonable driving distance of major northern Michigan attractions. Traverse City, with its vibrant downtown, dining, and shopping options, is just about a 20-25 minute drive away. The iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offering breathtaking views and incredible hiking, is also easily reachable for a day trip. This balance of secluded natural beauty and proximity to local amenities makes Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp an ideal choice for Michigan residents seeking an escape that doesn't require extensive travel planning, allowing for more time to enjoy the destination itself.

• Rustic Group Camping: Primarily designed as a group camping area, it can accommodate tents and trailers, with a maximum capacity of 200 individuals. It is especially suited for equestrian campers traveling the Shore-to-Shore Trail.

• Individual Rustic Sites: While a group camp, individual rustic sites are also available for those not part of a larger group, offering a quieter, more personal camping experience.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained vault toilets for campers' convenience, ensuring basic facilities are available.

• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available from a hand-pump well, a common feature in Michigan's rustic state forest campgrounds. There is also a submersible pump that requires a 5,000-watt generator for operation.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying evening campfires.

• Boat Ramp Access: There is a boat ramp providing easy access to Lake Dubonnet for paddling, fishing, and boating activities.

• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are typically taken for individual sites.

• Equestrian Focus: As a dedicated trail camp, Lake Dubonnet is a prime destination for horseback riders. It’s a key access point and overnight stop on the Shore-to-Shore Trail, a 420-mile system stretching across Michigan, offering unparalleled riding opportunities.

• Extensive Trail System Access: Beyond equestrian trails, the Lost Lake Pathway passes directly through or near the campground. This pathway offers 6.3 miles of multi-use trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, providing diverse year-round outdoor activities. Reviewers note the trails are well-marked and offer varied terrain, from flat sections to longer, sloped hills, with some roots to navigate.

• Lake Dubonnet: The campground sits on the tranquil shores of Lake Dubonnet, known for its clear waters and opportunities for fishing (bass, pike, bluegill), kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Some sites offer direct water access, and there are small islands to paddle to for exploration.

• Wildlife Viewing & Birdwatching: The dense forest and lakeside environment make Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp an excellent location for observing local wildlife and engaging in birdwatching. The quiet, natural setting enhances these opportunities.

• Rustic Charm & Seclusion: Campers frequently highlight the peaceful atmosphere and secluded nature of the sites, with ample space and privacy between them. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet retreat from more crowded areas.

• Proximity to Attractions: While offering a rustic experience, the campground is conveniently close to Interlochen State Park, Traverse City, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, allowing for easy day trips to explore more of Northern Michigan's highlights.

As a Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) facility, Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp operates under a standardized fee structure. While specific, individual promotions are not common for state forest campgrounds, the key to affordable access for Michigan residents is the

Michigan Recreation Passport.

This annual pass, available for a small fee when renewing your license plate through the Secretary of State, provides daily access to all Michigan state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, and non-motorized state trailhead parking. For Michiganders who frequently enjoy the outdoors, purchasing a Recreation Passport is an incredibly cost-effective way to utilize facilities like Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp throughout the year. Non-residents can purchase an annual or daily pass at state parks or online. Always check the official Michigan DNR website for the most current pricing and Recreation Passport details to ensure you have the most up-to-date information for your trip.

For direct inquiries regarding Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp, or for general information about Michigan's state forest campgrounds, you can use the following details:

Address: 375 Gonder Rd, Interlochen, MI 49643, USA

Phone: (231) 276-9511

Mobile Phone: +1 231-276-9511

This campground is managed by Interlochen State Park. For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information, including operational details, regulations, and any potential alerts, it is always recommended to visit the official Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website. The DNR website is an invaluable resource for planning your outdoor adventures across Michigan, providing detailed maps, amenity lists, and contact information for managing units.

For Michigan residents, Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp is more than just a campground; it’s a gateway to authentic outdoor experiences right in their backyard. Its location offers the perfect balance: a feeling of remote wilderness without being too far from civilization. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian seeking a segment of the epic Shore-to-Shore Trail, a family looking for a quiet, rustic camping trip, or an avid hiker or biker ready to explore extensive trails, Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp caters to a variety of outdoor passions.

The reviews from fellow Michiganders speak volumes about its appeal: a "decent trail, mostly flat with some longer slope hills," "lots of roots to be on the lookout for," and a "wide trail system through thick forest for hiking, biking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing." The presence of benches with lake views adds to the charm, and the recognition that "Michigan Recreation Passport required for entry" underscores its integration into the state's beloved natural resource system.

The rustic nature, combined with direct access to Lake Dubonnet for paddling and fishing, makes it a truly immersive natural escape. It’s a place where Michigan's natural beauty can be fully appreciated, from its diverse wildlife and serene lake views to its well-maintained, multi-use pathways. For those looking to truly disconnect, breathe fresh air, and engage with the environment that makes our state so special, Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp stands out as an ideal choice. It offers the quiet, unadorned beauty that many Michiganders cherish in their outdoor pursuits, proving that some of the best adventures are found close to home.