Garey Lake Trail Camp

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Garey Lake Trail Camp

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Michigan DNR site

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Garey Lake Trail Camp
No fees available
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Michigan
Provider
(800) 447-2757



About Garey Lake Trail Camp

Escape to Garey Lake Trail Camp, a hidden gem tucked into a historic apple orchard along pristine lakefront, just 8 miles southeast of Empire. This rustic group camping destination welcomes equestrians and boaters to its open, meadow-like setting where picket poles replace traditional campsites and adventure takes priority over amenities. Come prepared for primitive camping at its finest—this is true backcountry territory where self-sufficiency meets tranquil lakeside beauty.
A rustic, primitive Shore‑to‑Shore equestrian trail camp set in a former apple orchard on Garey Lake; functions primarily as a large group/equestrian site rather than individually numbered modern campsites.
Historical SignificanceSite was formerly an apple orchard; serves as one of the Shore-to-Shore equestrian trail camps and is managed by Interlochen State Park.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine pitching your tent where apple trees once flourished—a sun-dappled meadow that opens onto the glassy waters of Garey Lake, framed by towering northern hardwoods that whisper in the breeze. The grassy expanse of the old orchard creates sweeping lake views and an airy, pastoral atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life. This quiet lakefront haven serves as your gateway to endless exploration, with direct access to miles of forested state land and the legendary Shore-to-Shore equestrian trail stretching into the distance. Whether you're here to paddle the calm waters, saddle up for a trail ride, or simply soak in the solitude, the natural setting delivers an authentic Up North experience.
Geological RegionState forest setting on the shore of Garey Lake; site occupies a former apple orchard (open grassy orchard/meadow ringed by mixed northern hardwoods).
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Campsite details

Total Campsites2 campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsMIDNRReservations.com

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

Potable water
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Equestrian-focused Shore‑to‑Shore trail camp with access to Garey Lake for fishing and small‑boat use; suitable for hiking, paddling/boating, and hunting on surrounding state forest lands. The site functions as a large group/equestrian camp rather than numbered individual sites.
Hiking
Direct access to the Shore‑to‑Shore Trail for day hikes and multi‑day travel; trail also serves equestrians.
Fishing
Fishing in Garey Lake for perch, pike, and bluegill; additional nearby lakes (Glen Lake, Pearl Lake) noted in sources.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards

General hazardsHunting activity on surrounding state land during seasons (obey hunting restrictions and wear high-visibility clothing); horse traffic and associated manure in the camp; variable or unreliable potable water availability.

Weather at Garey Lake Trail Camp

30
°F
Dec 26
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Humidity: 58%
Wind: 14 mph
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Campground Map

Garey Lake Trail Camp
Driving directionsLocated 8 miles southeast of Empire via M-72, Plowman Road and Pettengill Road.
Accessible via M-72 with local roads (Plowman Road and Pettengill Road) to the site.
Nearby places
Empire — about 8 miles
Glen Lake — about 6 miles north
Pearl Lake — about 0.5 mile southeast.
Nearby supplies
Empire, Maple City

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Last updated December 13, 2025
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