ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Ogemaw County is an ideal place to spend a day, a long weekend or an entire vacation. Everything you can imagine is here for your enjoyment. We offer many great scenic adventures that will make your stay seem like a fairy tale. Enjoy the beauty of the Ogemaw Hills and the many trails that abound in the area. If your interest lies in this type of recreation be sure to call us at (800) 755-9091. The beauty of this region lies in the wide variety of hills, lakes and streams. Canoeing, trout fishing and swimming are just a few of the many recreational activities that you will find in this vast four season playground. Let your mind wander back to your childhood and remember the fun you had while enjoying the beauty of nature and the feeling of renewed life that comes with being outdoors.
Shopping Opportunities
If shopping is part of your vacation agenda, you’ve come to the right place. In Ogemaw County you can enjoy the best of both worlds – Enjoy a quaint Victorian city complete with a wide variety of specialty stores that carry a generous selection of giftables or, if you are bent on a major shopping experience, there are factory outlet stores and more!
RIFLE River recreation area
Approximate Size: 4449 Acres
The Rifle River Recreation Area covers 4,329 acres in Ogemaw County, and is the most predominant recreation facility in the watershed. The park offers 159 campsites, has several hiking trails and several lakes in its boundaries. From biking to fishing to relaxing to birdwatching, the Rifle River Recreation Area is the perfect setting to enjoy your visit to Ogemaw County.
iron parks
Valley Street & Shrigley Street, West Branch
A Municipal Park located on the West Branch of the Rifle River just S of Houghton Avenue on S Valley & Shrigley Streets. Amenities include: Ft. Austin – a modern playscape, reservable shelters for picnics or weddings, bathroom facilities, tennis & basketball courts. The Rivertrail also runs throughout the park and connects to downtown Victorian West Branch.
special events
Pioneer Power Antique Tractor Show, the Ogemaw County Fair and the Victorian Art Fair are just a few of the many outstanding events that take place here each year. For more information and a complete listing of events check out the calendar of events.
Omegaw hills pathway
The Ogemaw Hills Pathway is located at the corner of Clear Lake Road and Fairview Road. Take Exit 212 (West Branch Exit) following Business Loop 75 to Fairview Road (5 miles to Ogemaw Hills Pathway).Trail Length: 13.6 Miles
Located in the hills north of West Branch, the trails of the Ogemaw Hills Pathway wind through approximately 15 miles of the AuSable State Forest providing trails for hiking and biking and groomed cross country trails for all skill levels.
golf in omegaw county
Championship golf and West Branch/Ogemaw County have a lot in common and we think that once you have visited us you will agree that the ultimate golf destination is found right here. The West Branch Collection of Great Golf Courses – The Dream, The Nightmare, and West Branch Country Club (all 18 hole golf courses) are just minutes from your hotel room.
fall color tours
Some of Michigan’s most beautiful colors can be found in Ogemaw County. A visitor will not be disappointed during a fall tour of the region. Trees ablaze in gold, reds and orange give way to the splendor of the hills.
history driving tours
Take a drive into the past with historical driving tours. They will take you back into another time and place. The Ogemaw County Genealogical and Historical Society has guide books available for four different tours.
Ogemaw county quilt trail – self guided tour
The West Branch Area Chamber of Commerce (WBACC), Ogemaw Genealogical and Historical Society (OG&HS) and the West Branch Creative Arts Association (WBCAA) is partnering up to make this project happen! One of our goals is to involve community groups, organizations, businesses and families and have quilt blocks in all of Ogemaw County.
Ogemaw nature park
5626 W Rose City Rd, West Branch
Weekends 11-4
Ogemaw Nature Park gives children and adults the opportunity to have an up close experience with Michigan’s Whitetail Deer. Their goal is to inform the public on how precious a resource the deer are and the role hunters play in the species survival. Come visit the newest addition, PEACOCKS! They have become quite comfortable in their new home and can be found roaming the grounds throughout the day. Bring the children to feed and pet our friends from the wild. No Admittance Charge although donations are greatly appreciated. Picnic area with grill, a gazebo and hall you can rent for weddings, birthdays or any occasion.
Ogemaw springs
Maes Road | Latitude: 44.303738837, Longitude: -84.28966820
The arrival in Ogemaw Springs of the Jackson, Lansing and Saginaw Railroad in 1872 opened up the region’s rich timber resources. By 1873 two hundred people lived in the growing community that included several saw mills, a post office and a grocery. In 1875 Ogemaw Springs nearly became the county seat, losing to West Branch by only one vote. In the 1890s the depletion of timber in the area led to the town’s decline.
west branch disc golf course
Ogemaw Hills Recreation Complex | 2124 Dam Rd, West Branch
New course in West Branch. Plays through rolling park. Hole #4 has option of alternate tee.
rifle creek archery park
2025 M-55 – West Branch
989-312-5570
This community park was developed and is maintained by the Ogemaw Hills Sportsmen Association. Indoor and outdoor archery ranges, 2D walking course, hunter safety education.
ultimate archery & outdoors
2275 M-33, West Branch
Your local retailer for all your archery needs! Full service repairs, indoor video archery range. Official Darton factory outlet! Fishing & hunting too!
pat’s pooch park
Tolfree Wellness Park | on the campus of MidMichigan Medical Center | 2463 South M-30 – West Branch, Michigan 48661
MidMichigan Health Foundation has finalized the construction of Pat’s Pooch Park on the campus of MidMichigan Medical Center – West Branch in the Tolfree Wellness Park. “Pat’s Pooch Park is a place where dog owners can feel comfortable knowing their dogs can get exercise and socialize in a safe space,” said Nicole Potter, director, MidMichigan Health Foundation. “Not only does the park promote responsible dog ownership, but it contributes to making the West Branch community a safe and healthy place to work, live and play.”
The new park will be open for visitors daily from dusk to dawn and features a five-foot fenced off-leash dog area, divided into one area for small dogs and one for large dogs. Other features include an open sheltered area, benches, access to the Tolfree Trails and parking, and an off leash dog course
sunrise side wine and hops trail
Known for its location and convenience, Michigan’s Sunrise Side Wine & Hops Trail entices thousands of visitors each year to discover the thrill of Pure Michigan. Wine and hops aficionados will discover beautiful scenic views, wineries, breweries, one of a kind attractions, eateries, and quaint towns rich in history and flavor.
Visit West Branch
Get help planning your trip
A visit to Ogemaw County is one that your family will remember for many years to come. Contact the West Branch Visitors Bureau and let us help you plan your perfect trip to Ogemaw County.
"Heart of Michigan Circle Tour"
OGEMAW COUNTY FEATURED
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