Timber Creek Campground
4.0315 reviewsTank Creek, North Country National Scenic Trail
Timber Creek Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fee is $10 per night for single sites. Payment must be made via cash or check. Sites may be reservable and reservation fees apply.
About this campground
Tucked away in nature's embrace, Timber Creek Campground offers adventurers a peaceful retreat where rustic charm meets trail-ready convenience. This intimate campground serves as a gateway to the legendary North Country National Scenic Trail, with direct access from your campsite to miles of wilderness exploration. Nestled beside a tranquil impoundment, this hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for those seeking authentic outdoor experiences away from the crowds.
Timber Creek Campground is a rustic, first-come, first-serve facility catering to primitive, tent, and RV camping. It features nine sites with fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets.
Historical SignificanceWhile Timber Creek Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its true significance lies in being part of the living heritage of America's public lands. This quiet corner of the forest represents the enduring legacy of conservation and the timeless tradition of simple, back-to-basics camping that has drawn generations of outdoor enthusiasts to Michigan's wild places.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum throughout the year at Timber Creek. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, where crisp air and frozen beauty create ideal conditions for snowshoeing and winter camping. As seasons turn, spring awakens the forest with fresh greenery, while summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for hitting the trails at dawn or dusk. Fall paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons, offering spectacular hiking conditions and comfortable camping temperatures.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation within Michigan's gently rolling forest landscape, where the terrain offers just enough variety to keep hikes interesting without demanding mountaineering skills. This moderate positioning creates an ideal microclimate for camping and provides accessible adventures for outdoor enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryTimber Creek weaves its gentle song through the campground, crossed by charming wooden bridges that add rustic character to evening strolls. Campsites alternate between sun-dappled clearings perfect for solar charging and cozy, shaded spots beneath the forest canopy. The nearby impoundment mirrors the sky through the seasons, creating a serene backdrop for morning coffee or sunset contemplation, while the surrounding forest showcases Michigan's diverse ecosystem.
Geological RegionSituated within the vast expanse of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Timber Creek Campground occupies a unique position where water meets woodland. The small impoundment that defines the area speaks to the region's glacial past, while the mixed forest ecosystem demonstrates nature's resilience and diversity. This location offers campers a front-row seat to the subtle beauty of Michigan's northern forests, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly detailed in any sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are generally described as 'quite large,' accommodating tents and small RVs, per user feedback.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; sites are described as having both shady and sunny options. However, road noise affects the sense of seclusion in some areas.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites farther from the road to reduce traffic noise. Sites are generally large with fire pits, grills, and tables.
Best CampsitesSite 8 was mentioned in reviews for being suitable for campers but reportedly had trash issues.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours
Check-out
Open 24 hours
Stay Limit
No stay limit explicitly mentioned
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limit provided
Groups
Group camping sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 9 sites positioned near the North Country Trail. Sites are spaced out with varying sizes and levels of shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not explicitly attributed to a specific platform. Sites may be reservable.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-serve; no detailed information on walk-up availability patterns.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly detailed, though reservation fees apply.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Timber Creek Campground offers outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter snowmobiling access. The campground is situated along the North Country National Scenic Trail, making it a popular spot for hikers. However, the impoundment is not a favored fishing spot.
Hiking
The campground is located along the North Country National Scenic Trail, making it a busy spot for hiking activities. Reviews frequently highlight the convenience of trail access directly from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is plausible due to the rustic and forested nature of the campground; however, specific species or recommended viewing areas were not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities include snowmobiling, with plowed access to the Ward Hills Snowmobile Trail.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within fire pits available at each site. Specific fire guidelines not detailed.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply, specific times not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include storms and flooding as mentioned in user reviews. The creek has risen significantly during past storms.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Baldwin/White Cloud Ranger Station, 650 North Michigan Ave, Baldwin, MI 49304, Phone: (231) 745-4631. Hospital services not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities were not explicitly addressed in authoritative information or user reviews. Several reviews note issues with trash left around campsites, indicating poor self-cleanup habits by prior visitors.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near a small creek with bridges and a small impoundment.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention noise from road traffic, trash around campsites, and generator disruptions.
HostForest Service personnel reportedly visit almost daily for maintenance.
Campground Map
Tank Creek, North Country National Scenic Trail
Driving directionsFrom Baldwin, travel north on M-37 for 3 miles. Turn left and travel west on US-10 for 7.5 miles. The site is located on the right.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, and the access road/parking lot is plowed during winter months. However, there are no water or toilet facilities available in the off-season.Nearby places
Baldwin (10.5 miles, approximately 12 minutes), Ludington (19 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest store is 2.5 miles away and offers ice, cold drinks, groceries, and basic camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.0
15 reviews
Timber Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present a mix of opinions about Timber Creek Campground. Many campers appreciate its rustic atmosphere and proximity to the North Country Trail, while others cite issues such as road noise and trash left by previous visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned include 'great remote campground,' 'trail access right from the campground,' and 'sites are generally quite large.' Several reviews underline the campground's suitability...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include road noise ('Noise from road, ok for overnight'), misuse of trails by dirt bikes ('over 50 guys rode through the campground'), trash around campsites ('We spent about an...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing your own drinking water since potable water is unavailable, avoiding peak weekend times to ensure quieter camping, and being prepared for possible storms. One user noted, 'Lots...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends indicate that the campground is busier during weekends in the summer, while weekdays offer a quieter experience. Winter activities focus on snowmobiling access, while summer sees...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Sites have grill, fire pit, and table.' 2. 'The North Country Trail trailhead is right next to the campground.' 3. 'For peace and quiet, this is not the place.' 4. 'Vault toilets and water pump...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 8 was noted as 'not the easiest with camper but worked out good,' although there were issues with trash around the site.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility experiences were not addressed in the reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and features were not explicitly addressed in the reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025