Trails, forest, and lakes: Ogemaw's outdoor life

If you’re moving to rural Ogemaw, the outdoors is a big part of the deal. Much of the county is state forest — the Au Sable State Forest in the north and west, and Huron-Manistee National Forest land toward the southeast — so public land for hunting, hiking, and just having woods around is never far away.

Ogemaw is especially known for its trails. The county allows ORVs and side-by-sides on many county roads, which (combined with the area’s network of state-forest ORV routes) makes it a real destination for off-road riders. In winter, local clubs groom miles of snowmobile trails, and Rose City and West Branch serve as the main trailheads. The county is also dotted with small lakes — George, Sage, Clear, Long, and plenty more — many of them ringed with cottages and cabins.

For buyers, all of this is the appeal of the area: space, quiet, and recreation out the back door. Just remember the rural basics — you’ll be on a well and septic out here, so factor that into any property you’re considering.