State Forest · Michigan

Garey Lake State Forest Campground

State Forest · Michigan, United States

Open on the map Drive there Official page Directions
Sites
12
Hookups
12 no hookups
Season
Year-round
Cost
$20 per night; a Recreation Passport is required on the vehicle
Drinking water
Yes
Restrooms
Yes
Showers
No
Boat launch
Yes
Elevation
886 ft
Dark sky
Bortle class 1
Cell coverage
T-Mobile weak · AT&T weak · Verizon weak (carriers' 4G LTE filings to the FCC, 2025-12; not measured here)
Phone
231-276-9511

About

This charming, rustic campground, once a bustling apple orchard, now offers a peaceful escape on the shores of beautiful Garey Lake. With 13 rustic campsites open to equestrian use, it's a perfect spot for pan fishing on the lake or exploring nearby trails. You'll enjoy direct access to the famous Shore-to-Shore Trail and close proximity to the Lake Ann Pathway. Plus, there's a larger group camping option, Garey Lake Trail Camp, just a stone's throw away.

The Shore-to-Shore Trail is a sprawling 420-mile system for hiking and horseback riding, stretching east-west from Empire to Oscoda, with additional northern and southern spur trails. The Michigan Trail Riders Association helps maintain this incredible resource.

Planning an equestrian group ride? You might need a permit. For events using multiple Shore-to-Shore campgrounds, call the Cadillac Operations Service Center at 231-775-9727 x. 6006. If your event uses only one campground, contact us directly at 231-276-9511. For maps and more information on the Shore-to-Shore Trail, visit the MTRA website or call 989-723-1425.

12 equestrian campsites, $20 a night. Open all year; the road may not be plowed in winter. First come, first served; register at the campground kiosk on the day you arrive. Vault toilets and a hand-pump well for drinking water; no electricity or hookups. One camping unit and six people per site, 15 nights at most. Managed from Interlochen State Park (231-276-9511).

Weather, month by month

MonthTypical highTypical lowColdest nightHottest dayYears with a night below 32°F
January27°17°-3°45°11 of 11
February28°17°2°47°11 of 11
March37°26°10°66°11 of 11
April49°34°17°74°7 of 11
May60°45°30°78°1 of 11
June68°55°44°85°0 of 11
July75°63°55°85°0 of 11
August75°64°57°84°0 of 11
September70°59°50°81°0 of 11
October56°46°36°71°0 of 10
November41°35°19°61°5 of 10
December33°26°8°58°10 of 10

Mid-month figures from 2016–2026 of daily weather at this spot (ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo, CC BY 4.0), in °F. Typical is the median; coldest and hottest are the extremes seen.

Nearby campgrounds

All public campgrounds in Michigan · Every state and province · Facts read from the operator 2026-09-17. Confirm fees, rules and current status with the operator before you go.