About P.H. Hoeft State Park
P.H. Hoeft State Park sits along a mile of sandy Lake Huron shoreline just north of Rogers City, part of Michigan's "Sunrise Side" — the quieter, less-crowded stretch of Lake Huron coastline in the northeast Lower Peninsula. The 340-acre park includes stands of old-growth forest that were never logged, a rarity this far south in the state.
The modern campground has 126 sites with 20/30-amp service (some sites offer 50-amp), plus a group-use area, lodge, and mini cabin. The park operates year-round, and recent federal relief funding paid for new shower and toilet buildings and a sanitation station.
Things to Do
The historic Sunrise Pavilion — a stone-and-log structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938 — anchors the day-use area, and two buoyed swimming areas give families options along the beach. Four miles of trails wind through the old-growth forest, and a paved connection to the Huron Sunrise Trail extends the riding and walking options well beyond the park boundary. The 1920s-era Sears and Roebuck Lodge, which sleeps 8, is available for group stays.
Best Time to Visit
Summer brings the best beach weather along this stretch of Lake Huron, while fall offers quiet hiking through the old-growth stands. Year-round camping also makes Hoeft a viable winter option for cold-weather campers.
Reservation Tips
Hoeft is well off the beaten path compared to the busier parks near the Mackinac Bridge, so it's typically easier to reserve. Book through MiDNRReservations.com within the 6-month window, and consider the Sears and Roebuck Lodge if you're traveling with a larger group.
Getting There
The park sits on US-23 about 5 minutes north of Rogers City, along the scenic Lake Huron shoreline route between Alpena and the Mackinac Bridge.