Camp Kirby

richfield township campground

For Michigan locals seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor experience, Camp Kirby in St. Helen, located at 6443 Twin Lake Rd, St Helen, MI 48656, USA, stands as a highly regarded destination. This campground, a part of Richfield Township's commitment to quality parks and recreation, consistently earns praise for its well-maintained facilities, friendly atmosphere, and abundant opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. It's a place where, as one enthusiastic reviewer simply put it, "All I can say is wow. We'll be back." This sentiment is a testament to the memorable experiences Camp Kirby provides for its visitors.

Camp Kirby, also often referred to as Saint Helen Campground due to its location within Richfield Township's oldest and most beloved park, offers a diverse range of camping options to suit every preference. Whether you're pulling in a large RV or prefer the traditional tent camping experience, you'll find a welcoming spot. The campground prides itself on being a hub for local events and celebrations, fostering a vibrant community spirit that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your stay. From major festivals to casual gatherings, there's often something happening to engage campers of all ages.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Camp Kirby, tailored specifically for Michigan locals. We will explore its strategic location and excellent accessibility within St. Helen, detail the comprehensive services and amenities offered, and highlight the unique features that make it such a popular choice. Our goal is to equip prospective campers with factual insights, helping them understand what to expect and why Camp Kirby is a suitable destination for creating cherished outdoor memories in the heart of Michigan's recreational landscape.

The commitment to cleanliness and visitor comfort at Camp Kirby is frequently highlighted in reviews. The restrooms and shower facilities are consistently noted for their cleanliness, providing a refreshing convenience that enhances the overall camping experience. Beyond the practicalities, the campground's setting allows for easy access to Lake St. Helen, a sprawling all-sports lake, opening up a world of water-based activities. Furthermore, the direct access to ORV (Off-Road Vehicle) trails from the campsites is a significant draw for adventure enthusiasts, making it a true "one-stop summer fun park."

Camp Kirby embodies the spirit of Pure Michigan, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community engagement. Its ability to cater to both those seeking active adventure and those desiring peaceful relaxation makes it a versatile and appealing choice for a diverse range of locals. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a solo retreat, or a group gathering, Camp Kirby promises a rewarding outdoor experience. Continue reading to discover more about what makes this St. Helen gem a top-tier choice for Michigan campers.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Kirby is conveniently located at 6443 Twin Lake Rd, St Helen, MI 48656, USA. This prime location places it within Richfield Township, a well-known area in Ogemaw County, Michigan, renowned for its strong emphasis on outdoor recreation. St. Helen is easily accessible for Michigan residents, situated conveniently near major roadways, ensuring a smooth journey from various parts of the state. Its position allows for quick access to I-75, a primary north-south artery in Michigan, making it a manageable drive from the Lower Peninsula's larger cities like Detroit, Lansing, and Grand Rapids.

The campground's specific address on Twin Lake Road provides immediate proximity to the natural beauty of the region, while also being just a stone's throw away from the vibrant hub of St. Helen. This means campers can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors and direct access to ORV trails, while also having convenient access to local amenities. Party stores, gasoline stations, and restaurants in St. Helen are all easily reachable, ensuring that campers can resupply or enjoy local dining options without venturing far from their campsite.

A significant highlight of Camp Kirby's location is its easy access to Lake St. Helen, a vast 2400-acre all-sports lake. This proximity allows for a wide array of water activities, including boating, swimming from a smaller beach area, and fishing from the new Lake St. Helen Fishing Pier, which also features a handicap-accessible kayak launch. Additionally, the campground boasts direct access to an extensive network of ORV trails, a major draw for enthusiasts looking to explore Michigan's natural terrain. This combination of natural immersion and convenient services makes Camp Kirby an exceptionally well-located choice for Michigan adventurers.

Services Offered

• Diverse Campsite Options: Camp Kirby offers a variety of sites to cater to different camping preferences. This includes 91 rustic sites and 30 modern water and electric sites (with 20, 30, and 50 amp hookups), accommodating both tents and RVs.
• Clean Restroom and Shower Facilities: Well-maintained and clean bathroom and shower facilities are available for all campers, enhancing comfort during their stay.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Rustic sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable water is available for campers.
• Garbage Disposal: Designated areas for garbage disposal are provided to maintain cleanliness.
• Reservations System: Campers can easily book campground reservations online through the Richfield Township website.
• Marina Facilities: Richfield Township also operates a large marina, providing more access to Lake St. Helen for residents and visitors.
• Pavilions for Rent: Two pavilions are available for rent, suitable for group gatherings and events.
• Internet Access: Wi-Fi access may be available in certain areas, particularly around central facilities.

Features / Highlights

• Direct ORV Trail Access: A significant highlight is the direct access to ORV trails from the campsites, making it a prime destination for off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
• Proximity to Lake St. Helen: Offers easy access to the 2400-acre all-sports Lake St. Helen, providing extensive opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming (with a sandy beach area), and kayaking (via a handicap-accessible launch).
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Known for its welcoming environment and various amenities that cater to families and children, including playground equipment.
• Recreational Amenities: Features include a playground, tennis courts, basketball courts, and horseshoe pits, ensuring plenty of on-site activities.
• Community Event Hub: Home to major local events such as the St. Helen Bluegill Festival and the ORV Jamboree, fostering a vibrant community spirit. The St. Helen Fireworks are also hosted here.
• Game Room: A cool game room provides an additional entertainment option for guests.
• Small and Intimate Feel: Despite offering numerous amenities, its relatively smaller size compared to some resorts enhances the camping experience by fostering a more private and peaceful atmosphere.
• Beautiful Lake Overlook: Many areas within the campground, including some sites and common areas, offer nice views overlooking Lake St. Helen.
• Versatile Camping Options: Provides a good mix of modern (water & electric) and rustic sites to suit different camping styles.

Contact Information

Address: 6443 Twin Lake Rd, St Helen, MI 48656, USA

Phone: (989) 529-2770 (Note: Richfield Township's Parks & Rec contact is also listed as 989-389-4995 for general inquiries and reservations).

Mobile Phone: +1 989-529-2770

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For Michigan locals, Camp Kirby in St. Helen represents an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for an outdoor getaway. Its unique combination of direct access to exhilarating ORV trails, proximity to the expansive Lake St. Helen, and a robust array of family-friendly amenities creates a well-rounded and engaging camping experience right in the heart of our state.

The campground's reputation for being "much better cared for" than many others is a significant draw. The consistently clean restrooms and showers are a testament to the dedication of the Richfield Township Parks & Recreation, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic stay. This attention to detail allows campers to relax and fully enjoy their time outdoors without common camping inconveniences.

Perhaps the most compelling reason for locals to choose Camp Kirby is its diverse recreational offerings. Whether you're an avid ORV enthusiast ready to hit the trails directly from your campsite, a water sports lover eager to explore Lake St. Helen with its opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming, or a family seeking a fun-filled environment with a playground, mini-golf, and a game room, Camp Kirby caters to all. The vibrant community events, such as the Bluegill Festival and ORV Jamboree, further enhance the experience, providing unique local flavor and opportunities for connection.

Its accessible location, just off I-75 in West Branch, means less travel time and more vacation time for residents from across Michigan. This convenience, combined with the balance of natural beauty and access to nearby town amenities for resupply, makes Camp Kirby an ideal choice for both spontaneous weekend trips and extended vacations. It truly is a "one-stop summer fun park" that offers a peaceful yet engaging setting to create countless cherished memories for Michigan families and outdoor adventurers alike.

Camp Kirby

6443 Twin Lake Rd, St Helen, MI 48656, USA