South Branch Trail Camp Group Site
4.557 reviews5761 North Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI, USA, 48750
South Branch Trail Camp Group Site
$40.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group rates range from $40 to $100 based on the number of people: 1-50 people ($40), 51-100 people ($70), 101-150 people ($80), 151-200 people ($90), 201-max people ($100). Fees do not include taxes or incremental charges.
About this campground
Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at South Branch Trail Camp Group Site, where equestrian dreams come alive against a backdrop of pristine Michigan wilderness. This horse-friendly haven serves as your gateway to the legendary 240-mile Michigan Shore-to-Shore Riding and Hiking Trail, offering riders and their four-legged companions the perfect basecamp for exploring one of the Midwest's most spectacular trail systems.
South Branch Trail Camp Group Site is designed for group and equestrian camping, accommodating up to 250 campers.
Historical SignificanceFollow in the hoofprints of history as the eastern trail traces the legendary AuSable River, a waterway that once carried Native American canoes and later floated massive logs during Michigan's timber boom. This storied corridor has witnessed centuries of travelers, from indigenous peoples to fur traders, lumberjacks to modern-day adventurers, each leaving their mark on the rich tapestry of Michigan's outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for trail riding and outdoor adventures, though Mother Nature occasionally adds excitement with refreshing summer storms that roll across the landscape. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, the camping season winds down before winter transforms the area into a snow-dusted wonderland, bringing crystalline air, peaceful solitude, and the occasional howl of arctic winds through the pines.
ElevationPerched at 880 feet above sea level, the campground offers a refreshing escape where the air feels just a bit crisper and the stars shine a little brighter. This gentle elevation provides natural drainage for the camping areas while offering subtle vantage points across the surrounding forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a stunning tapestry of towering oaks and whispering pines, the campground captures the essence of Michigan's diverse forest ecosystem. The melodic waters of the South Branch and mighty AuSable Rivers weave through the landscape, creating a natural symphony that lulls campers to sleep each night. Just a scenic drive away, the vast expanse of Lake Huron beckons with its endless blue horizon, offering the perfect day trip destination for beach lovers and sunset seekers.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of northeast Michigan, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rolling forests and winding rivers. At 880 feet elevation, the campground rests upon terrain shaped by millennia of natural processes, creating a diverse ecosystem where majestic oaks mingle with aromatic pines. The nearby South Branch and AuSable Rivers have carved their paths through this woodland paradise, creating corridors of life that support abundant wildlife and offer endless opportunities for exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not discussed in the provided details, leaving their availability unclear.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and flat, according to user reviews.
Sites PrivacyUser feedback suggests that the sites offer privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for equestrian campers due to specialized facilities including horse hitching posts.
Best CampsitesPopular for equestrian use.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out hour not reported.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during a visit or within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group site holds up to 250 campers.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 250 campers, with parking for up to 65 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGroup site with ample space for equestrian camping including parking for up to 65 vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to October 31. Reservable starting June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to check-in date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Early departures may not be eligible for refunds.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at South Branch Trail Camp Group Site include hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, camping, and hunting. Visitors may also enjoy winter sports. The site is particularly praised for its equestrian trails and the scenic beauty of the 240-mile Michigan Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding and Hiking Trail.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to the Michigan Shore-To-Shore Riding and Hiking Trail, offering a 240-mile route from Empire near Lake Michigan to Oscoda near Lake Huron. The eastern part of the trail follows the AuSable River.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is listed as an activity, but further details are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter sports are listed as recreational options but are not elaborated upon in the available data.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as activities available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated rings using downed wood. Fire safety protocols strictly enforced.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include proximity to water features, risk of contamination, and forest fire risks from unattended campfires.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available in Oscoda, including hospitals and police. Lumberman’s Monument ranger station may provide onsite assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 31 (2025)
Trash and recyclingOne garbage bin is available at the campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to South Branch River and near AuSable River. Lake Huron is accessible for day trips.
Common complaintsNone specifically reported in reviews.
Campground Map
5761 North Skeel Ave, Oscoda, MI, USA, 48750
Driving directionsIf traveling from the south, go US-23 north to M-65. Stay on M-65 north through the city of Hale. 6 miles north of Hale turn north on Rollways Road. Travel 3 miles to the campground entrance.
Accessible via paved roads including US-23 and M-65. Rollways Road leads to the campground. Road conditions appear uncomplicated.Nearby places
Hale (approximately 9 miles, ~15 minutes)
Oscoda (approximately 20 miles, ~30 minutes)
AuSable (approximately 25 miles, ~45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Oscoda, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
South Branch Trail Camp Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's suitability for equestrian camping and its large, flat sites. Visitors also appreciate the trails for horseback riding and hiking. The campground's cleanliness and spacious layout are frequently praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's large and flat sites, suitability for equestrian activities, and access to scenic trails. Reviewers have commended the cleanliness of the area and the ample...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No specific complaints are mentioned in the provided user reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
User tips include planning horseback riding trips on the picturesque trails and scheduling weekend visits for group camping events.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not explicitly mention seasonal trends, but the campground's popularity for equestrian activities implies that warmer months may be ideal.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Been camping here with my family & fellowship church since 8/1980." - Aaron Collins; "Great campground and trails!!" - Teresa Mulherin; "Easy in easy out large sites has outhouses." - den; "Sites...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites are not mentioned or reviewed individually.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not discussed or highlighted in the user reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet-related experiences in user reviews, but the campground rules allow pets as long as they are leashed or under voice command.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025