About Hartwick Pines State Park
Hartwick Pines State Park is home to Michigan's largest remaining stand of old-growth white pine forest — towering trees that have stood for 300-plus years, survivors of the 19th century logging era that cleared most of Michigan's forests. Walking among these ancient trees is a genuinely awe-inspiring experience that feels unlike any other park in the state.
The park also features the Michigan Forest Visitor Center, a historic logging camp, and miles of excellent hiking and mountain biking trails through both the old-growth and second-growth forest. Near Grayling, it makes an ideal base for Au Sable River canoe trips as well.
Why Campers Love It
- Michigan's largest old-growth white pine forest — 300+ year old trees
- Michigan Forest Visitor Center with exceptional logging history exhibits
- Historic logging camp buildings preserved on site
- Excellent mountain biking — some of the best trails in the Lower Peninsula
- Near Grayling and the Au Sable River for world-class fly fishing and canoeing
- Beautiful in all seasons — fall color here is spectacular
Campgrounds at Hartwick Pines State Park
| Campground | Sites | Hookups | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Campground | 100 | Electric | Wooded sites in second-growth forest, good shade and privacy |
Booking Tips & Demand
Hartwick Pines is a high demand park, especially for summer weekends and fall color season. The combination of old-growth forest, mountain biking, and proximity to Grayling makes it extremely popular.
Booking window: 6 months before check-in, opens at 8:00 AM Eastern on weekdays, 9:00 AM on weekends.
Best times: Fall is absolutely stunning here — late September through mid-October brings brilliant color to both the old-growth and surrounding forest. Book fall weekends at the 6-month window. Weekdays in summer are much easier to get.