Pines Campground

waterloo pines campground

For many Michiganders, the call of the wild is best answered with a backpack, a sturdy pair of boots, and a trail stretching into the horizon. If you’re one of those who prefers the quiet solitude of a hike-in site over the hustle and bustle of a modern campground, then Pines Campground in Grass Lake, MI, is a name you’ll want to know. This truly rustic destination is not for the faint of heart or those seeking extensive amenities. Instead, it offers an authentic backcountry experience, serving as a vital stop for thru-hikers on the renowned Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, and a perfect spot for locals looking for an overnight backpacking adventure right here in our beautiful state.

Pines Campground embodies the spirit of minimalist camping, providing a genuine immersion in Michigan’s natural landscapes. It’s a place where the sounds of civilization are replaced by the rustling of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife. Unlike many other campgrounds, Pines requires a hike to reach, ensuring a secluded and peaceful environment. This very feature makes it particularly appealing to experienced backpackers and those training for longer treks, offering a practical test of their self-sufficiency skills. It's a reminder that some of Michigan's most profound outdoor experiences are found off the beaten path, demanding a bit more effort but rewarding it with unmatched tranquility and a true sense of wilderness.

Pines Campground is situated in Grass Lake, MI 49240, USA, deep within the expansive Waterloo Recreation Area. It’s crucial to understand that this is a hike-in only campground, meaning you cannot drive directly to your campsite. Its location on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail is central to its accessibility, as it serves as a key overnight stop for those traversing this significant Michigan trail.

To access Pines Campground, you'll need to plan your hike from one of the designated trailheads or official parking areas. Here are some common distances from known access points along the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail:

• From Portage Lake Campground: Approximately 10.5 miles.
• From Green Lake Campground: Approximately 11.5 miles (or 11 miles from the external parking lot on the trailside).
• From Eddy Discovery Center: Approximately 6 miles.
• From Waterloo Recreation Area Headquarters: Approximately 4-5 miles (overnight parking availability may need to be confirmed directly with the park).

For those hiking East to West, another potential parking option exists about 3 miles from the east at a horseman’s campground, which also has water pumps and seasonal reservoirs – a useful detail for planning water refills. Given its hike-in nature, visitors must be prepared for the mileage and terrain involved in reaching the campground. This design reinforces its purpose as a backcountry destination, making it ideal for Michigan residents who are avid hikers and seek a challenging yet rewarding outdoor experience close to home.

Pines Campground offers a very basic, no-frills camping experience, consistent with its rustic, hike-in nature. The services provided are minimal, emphasizing self-sufficiency and leaving a light footprint on the environment.

• Designated Sites: There are 5 official campsites available. These sites are intended for tent camping and offer a cleared space for setting up camp.
• Vault Toilet: A single vault toilet is available at the campground for sanitation needs.
• Horse Posts and Steps: For riders traversing the multi-use trails, a few horse posts and steps are present near the campground. However, it's important to note that horses are not allowed to stay overnight within the campground itself.

It is crucial for campers to be aware of what is NOT provided:

• No Fire Rings: Ground fires are strictly prohibited at Pines Campground, meaning campers must rely on camp stoves for cooking.
• No Water Pumps: There is no potable water source directly at the campground. Campers must pack in all their water or be prepared to filter water from natural sources like the seasonal creek (approximately 0.5 miles west) or a flooded reservoir (approximately 0.5 miles east, accessible with some walking in mud) using a reliable water filter.

Pines Campground, while rustic, boasts several features and highlights that make it a uniquely appealing destination for the right kind of Michigan adventurer.

• Exclusive Hike-In Access: This is the defining characteristic of Pines Campground. The requirement to hike to the sites ensures a truly secluded and quiet experience, far removed from vehicle noise and crowds found at drive-up campgrounds. This makes it an ideal spot for serious backpackers and those seeking solitude.
• Prime Location on Waterloo-Pinckney Trail: For Michigan's dedicated thru-hikers, Pines Campground is a critical overnight stop. Its strategic placement along the 33.9-mile Waterloo-Pinckney Trail makes it perfectly suited for multi-day trekking adventures, offering a designated and official place to rest.
• Minimalist Camping: The absence of fire rings, potable water pumps, and other modern amenities forces campers to embrace a true "leave no trace" and self-sufficient philosophy. This is a significant draw for experienced backpackers who prefer to carry their own supplies and minimize their impact on the environment.
• Five Official Sites: With only five designated campsites, the campground maintains an intimate feel, ensuring a less crowded environment even when fully occupied. This contributes to the overall sense of peace and privacy.
• Seasonal Water Sources (with Filter): While there's no direct potable water, the presence of a seasonal creek and a flooded reservoir within a short walk provides natural water sources for those equipped with water filters, adding to the self-reliance aspect of the trip.
• Multi-Use Trails Nearby: The surrounding Waterloo Recreation Area features trails open to both foot traffic and horseback riding in certain sections, offering varied landscapes and experiences for exploration.
• Excellent for Overnight Trips: Beyond thru-hikers, Pines Campground is also perfect for shorter overnight backpacking trips, allowing locals to test their gear and skills in a realistic backcountry setting without committing to a full multi-day trek.

For inquiries or more information about Pines Campground, which is managed as part of the Waterloo Recreation Area, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Grass Lake, MI 49240, USA (within Waterloo Recreation Area)

Phone: (734) 475-8307

Mobile Phone: +1 734-475-8307

Please note that while these numbers connect to the Waterloo Recreation Area office, direct reservations for Pines Campground are typically handled differently than modern campgrounds, often involving self-registration or online booking for hike-in sites. Always confirm reservation procedures when planning your trip.

Pines Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Michigan locals who are passionate about backpacking, thru-hiking, and genuinely rustic camping experiences. Its identity as a hike-in only site means it naturally filters for adventurers who are prepared for self-sufficiency and value seclusion above all else. For those in Michigan looking to challenge themselves, hone their backcountry skills, or simply escape the noise of everyday life, Pines offers an unparalleled opportunity without requiring extensive travel outside the state. The fact that it's embedded within the vast Waterloo-Pinckney Trail system provides a fantastic resource for locals to undertake multi-day treks or short overnight excursions, fostering a deeper connection with Michigan’s diverse natural landscapes.

The lack of modern amenities, such as potable water and fire rings, is not a drawback but a feature for its target audience. It encourages campers to embrace true wilderness principles, from packing in all necessities to practicing strict Leave No Trace ethics. For Michiganders who might be training for longer national trail hikes or simply yearning for a genuinely peaceful night under the stars, Pines Campground provides an accessible and authentic testing ground. It's a testament to the diverse camping opportunities available right here in our home state, catering specifically to those who seek a more profound and immersive outdoor adventure, prioritizing the untamed beauty of the Michigan wilderness over creature comforts. If you're a local ready to trade concrete for conifers and a comfortable bed for a sleeping bag under the open sky, Pines Campground awaits your footsteps.

Pines Campground

Grass Lake, MI 49240, USA