Clare County State Recreation Area wilderness guide
State Recreation Area · MI

Clare County State Recreation Area

Clare County State Recreation Area offers diverse outdoor activities with its dense forests, walking trails, and access to lakes, providing a tranquil, natural setting for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation.

State Recreation Area2,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Clare County State Recreation Area

Clare County State Recreation Area offers diverse outdoor activities with its dense forests, walking trails, and access to lakes, providing a tranquil, natural setting for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Clare County State Recreation Area is located in north-central Michigan and spans a variety of forested terrain featuring mixed hardwoods and conifer stands. This area provides habitat for deer, wild turkey, and numerous songbirds, making it a favorable spot for wildlife viewing and hunting. Historically, the land was part of extensive logging operations in Michigan before being reforested and managed for recreation and conservation. The recreation area includes several small lakes and wetlands that support aquatic life and opportunities for fishing and paddle sports. Visitors can explore a network of maintained trails that range from easy walking paths to moderate routes suitable for mountain biking. The area offers developed campgrounds as well as primitive sites, allowing for a range of camping experiences. Seasonal changes bring vibrant fall colors that attract photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Clare County State Recreation Area appeals to those seeking a peaceful experience in a less crowded setting while still offering varied outdoor recreation. The site's natural features and tranquil atmosphere make it a valued resource for both day users and overnight visitors.

Field Guide · State Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Clare County State Recreation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Multi-use trail system with sections for hiking and mountain biking✦ Small lakes providing quality fishing opportunities✦ Diverse forest ecosystem supporting abundant wildlife✦ Quiet campgrounds offering peaceful overnight stays
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Clare County State Recreation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Clare County State Recreation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Clare County State Recreation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day use fee applies; camping fees required for overnight stays.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Clare County State Recreation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Clare County Campground

Located near Brady Lake, offers electric and non-electric sites with nearby restrooms and water.

Primitive Group Campground

Basic camping area suitable for groups seeking a rustic experience away from developed sites.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Clare County State Recreation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Houghton Lake, Michigan
⌖ 11.86 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Houghton Lake, Michigan

Houghton Lake, Michigan, is a freshwater playground for paddlers, anglers, hikers, and snowmobilers. Enjoy year-round outdoor fun with calm waters, forest trails, and vibrant local events near this northern Michigan lake town.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Gladwin, Michigan
⌖ 17.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gladwin, Michigan

Gladwin offers peaceful river paddling, forest hiking, snowmobiling, and fishing amid quiet natural settings. It’s a great spot for travelers seeking a low-key outdoor escape in central Michigan.

Spring through Fall for warm-weather activities, Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Farwell, Michigan
⌖ 22.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Farwell, Michigan

Farwell is a peaceful Michigan town ideal for paddling, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling. With access to the Pere Marquette River and expansive forests, it offers year-round outdoor adventures away from crowded tourist spots.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Clare, Michigan
⌖ 22.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clare, Michigan

Clare, Michigan, is an inviting town known for its outdoor adventures along the Muskegon River, forest trails, and snowmobile routes. Ideal for hiking, paddling, and winter riding, Clare offers a year-round basecamp with friendly small-town charm.

Spring to Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Beaverton, Michigan
⌖ 22.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Beaverton, Michigan

Beaverton, Michigan is a peaceful town ideal for outdoor travelers seeking hiking, paddling, fishing, and winter skiing. Surrounded by forests and rivers, it offers a quiet escape with diverse year-round adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall for warm-weather activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
St. Helen, Michigan
⌖ 22.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. Helen, Michigan

St. Helen, Michigan, is a quiet lakeside town with great access to paddling, fishing, hiking, and winter snowmobiling. Surrounded by forest and water, it’s a perfect base for outdoor lovers seeking a peaceful Northern Michigan escape.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water activities; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Clare County State Recreation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A Full-Day Pontoon Escape on Roscommon’s Quiet Waterways
ADVEXPEDITION
Roscommon, Michigan
Boat RentalADV Bookable

A Full-Day Pontoon Escape on Roscommon’s Quiet Waterways

A nine-hour, 11-seat pontoon rental from 989 Barbeque LLC that lets groups navigate at their own pace — this guide explains the logistics and what to expect for a full day on the water.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip