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Michigan
223

Michigan State Parks

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USA Parks
Michigan
Upper Peninsula Region
Sturgeon River State Forest
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STURGEON RIVER STATE FOREST
STURGEON RIVER STATE FOREST
The Sturgeon River State Forest in Michigan is a breathtaking natural haven boasting picturesque landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities. With its dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers, this state forest offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, such as hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching while being surrounded by the region's diverse plant and animal species. Whether it's exploring the forest's extensive trail system or simply basking in the serenity of its untouched beauty, the Sturgeon River State Forest promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
History of the Area
Sturgeon River State Forest is a significant natural area located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, United States. The state forest encompasses approximately 4,678 acres of land and is known for its diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscapes.

The history of Sturgeon River State Forest is closely tied to the development of the timber industry in northern Michigan. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this region was heavily logged to provide lumber for the growing nation. The land that now constitutes the state forest was predominantly occupied by white pine, one of the most important tree species for logging at that time.

After years of intensive logging, much of the land was left barren and denuded, leading to soil erosion and a loss of habitat for wildlife. Recognizing the need to restore and conserve the natural resources of the area, the State of Michigan began acquiring the lands that now make up Sturgeon River State Forest.

In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in the development and management of the state forest. The CCC was a public work relief program that operated from 1933 to 1942 during the Great Depression. Many of the natural features and infrastructure in Sturgeon River State Forest were created by the CCC, including the rustic campground, trails, bridges, and access roads.

With the establishment of the state forest, the land came under the stewardship of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Since then, the DNR has been actively managing the forest to protect the ecological integrity of the area while also providing recreational opportunities for visitors.

Sturgeon River State Forest is celebrated for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreational activities. The forest offers opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, birdwatching, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, among other activities. The Sturgeon River, a designated Michigan Natural River, flows through the state forest, and its deep gorges and waterfalls are popular attractions for visitors.

Sturgeon River State Forest has a rich history rooted in Michigan's timber industry and subsequent efforts to restore and conserve the natural environment. The forest stands as a testament to the importance of land conservation and continues to be a valuable resource for both nature enthusiasts and local communities.
Passes
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Camping
1. Chandler Hills Campground: This campground is located within the Sturgeon River State Forest and offers a variety of amenities including electric hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables and fire rings.

2. Indian River RV Resort & Campground: Located just outside the state forest boundary but still close to all its natural beauty. It provides full hookup sites for RVs as well as tent camping spots with access to facilities like laundry room, swimming pool etc.

3. Burt Lake State Park: Although not directly in the Sturgeon River State Forest it's nearby offering over 400 campsite options along with modern restroom facilities and electricity at each site.

4. Tomahawk Creek Flooding - West Unit Dispersed Camping Area: A free dispersed camping area that allows you to experience nature up-close without any distractions from civilization or other tourists around you.

5. Pigeon Bridge Campgrounds: Rustic campsites are available here on first-come-first-served basis where one can enjoy fishing opportunities too!

6. Webber Lake Public Access Site: Though primarily used for boat launching purposes into Webber lake, overnight stays (up:to14 days)are allowed making it an option if looking out for primitive style of camping.

7. Sturgeon Valley Primitive Camping Sites: As name suggests these are rustic type campsites spread across various locations near river sturgeons providing ample opportunity for hiking,fishing,hunting activities.
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Location
Sturgeon River State Forest is located near Iron Mountain

Trails
1. High Rollways Hiking Trail: This trail offers a stunning view of the Sturgeon River Gorge from high above, hence its name. It is approximately 3 miles long and features beautiful wildflowers during springtime.

2. Pigeon River Country State Forest Discovery Center Trails: These trails are perfect for beginners or families with children as they offer easy to moderate hikes ranging between 0.5-4 miles in length around lakes, through forests and across meadows teeming with wildlife such as elk.

3. Shingle Mill Pathway: A popular multi-use hiking/bicycling/horseback riding/skiing pathway that stretches over about 11-miles within the forest area featuring scenic views along Vanderbilt Creek and Webb Pond.

4. The Green Timbers Area Paths: An extensive network of unmarked paths ideal for adventurous hikers who prefer off-the-beaten-path experiences; it also includes several small ponds offering opportunities for fishing.

5. Stoney Creek Nature Study Area Trails: Two looped trails (one being just under one mile while other nearly two) providing an educational experience on local flora/fauna via interpretive signs throughout their course.

6. Tomahawk Flooding Waterfowl Viewing Site & Walking Trail: Short walking path leading to viewing platforms overlooking Tomahawk flooding where visitors can observe various waterfowl species nesting/feeding habits up close.

7. Pine Baron Pathway: Four loops varying from less than three-mile beginner's route to more challenging six-plus miler passing by multiple glacial kettle holes filled with crystal clear waters reflecting surrounding pine trees' greenery against blue skies overhead - truly breathtaking sight!

8. Black Mountain Recreation Area's Nongroomed Backcountry Ski/Hike/Snowshoe Routes: Over thirty-five kilometers worth rugged terrain suitable only experienced outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude amidst pristine natural beauty winter months provide here at higher elevations near Lake Huron's shoreline.

9. Inspiration Point Trail: A short, 0.5-mile trail leading to a breathtaking overlook of the Sturgeon River Gorge and surrounding forest area.

10. The Towerman's Watch Pathway: This is an easy-to-moderate hike that takes you through dense forests with towering trees; it also features several historical sites related to Michigan's logging history including old fire towers once used by lookouts spotting potential wildfires from miles away.

11. Sinkholes Nature Interpretive Trails: Two looped trails (one being just under one mile while other nearly two) providing educational experience on local geology via interpretive signs throughout their course - great for school field trips or anyone interested in learning more about unique geological formations found within this region known as "karst landscape".

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Area Campgrounds
Summer Breeze Campground
W8576 Twin Falls Road
Iron Mountain, MI
906-774-7701

Directions
1. Start by heading north on I:75 if you are coming from southern parts of Michigan or Ohio.
2. Take exit 282 for M:32 toward Gaylord/Alpena and turn left onto M-32 West.
3. Continue driving west on M:32 for approximately 15 miles until you reach Wolverine.
4. In Wolverine, take a right onto S Straits Hwy/MI:27 North and continue driving for about 9 miles.
5. Turn left onto E Burt Lake Rd/E Main St (signs for Indian River) then after around half mile keep straight to stay on N Straits Highway.
6. Continue along this road as it becomes Cheboygan Road/North Blackriver Road/Straits Highway: drive past Topinabee Market & Deli.
7. After roughly another five minutes' drive, make a slight right at Waverly Drive which will lead into Old US Hwy31N.
8. Drive down Old US HWY31 N till reaching Levering where one should proceed through town continuing up Mackinaw Trail.
9. Follow signs towards Carp lake /Macknac Bridge . After passing carp lake head south east following m119 signposted Cross Village/Petoskey/Bay View.
10. Stick with route eventually turning off main highway when seeing brown state forest signage directing visitors to sturgeon river trailhead parking lot.
11. Once parked hike trails leading deeper within park boundaries.

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Michigan
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Michigan State Parks

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