State Forest · Michigan

Rapid River Trail Camp

State Forest · Michigan, United States

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Season
Year-round
Cost
Group rates apply; a Recreation Passport is required on the vehicle
Group sites
Yes
Drinking water
Yes
Restrooms
Yes
Showers
No
Elevation
1,060 ft
Dark sky
Bortle class 4
Cell coverage
T-Mobile good · AT&T good · Verizon good (carriers' 4G LTE filings to the FCC, 2025-12; not measured here)
Phone
231-922-5270

About

Designed for equestrian campers, this spacious and sunny group campground, shaded by majestic oaks and pines, offers direct access to the renowned Shore-to-Shore Trail. Riders can explore 420 miles of scenic routes, including the beautiful 19.2-mile stretch to Schecks Trail Camp along a picturesque river (be aware of sandy sections). Accommodating up to 200 people, the campground features a submersible pump for water, requiring a 5,000-watt generator.

If the group will utilize multiple campgrounds along the trail, please contact the Cadillac Operations Service Center at 231-775-9727, ext. 6006. This campground is maintained with the help of the Michigan Trail Riders Association.

The campground is located 3 miles north of Kalkaska via Metzgar Road.

A group camp (equestrian - group); group rates apply. 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 Traverse City State Park (231-922-5270).

Weather, month by month

MonthTypical highTypical lowColdest nightHottest dayYears with a night below 32°F
January26°15°-14°43°11 of 11
February27°13°-9°47°11 of 11
March38°22°7°65°11 of 11
April51°34°9°80°9 of 11
May65°44°27°80°2 of 11
June71°52°42°91°0 of 11
July79°61°53°89°0 of 11
August76°61°53°86°0 of 11
September72°55°42°84°0 of 11
October54°43°33°72°0 of 10
November40°32°10°60°9 of 10
December32°21°3°59°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.