Middle Town - FS 3018

Trail Overview

Federal Forest Road 3018 is a federally managed, non-DNR road under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service. It is open for public use with no known seasonal or emergency closures. The road surface consists of dirt, sand, and gravel, and its condition is rated as fair. It is part of ORV Route C, extending 2.87 miles with a width greater than twelve feet. The surface is composed of native materials, making it suitable for multi-use recreation. Although not a DNR-designated ORV route, it supports seasonal ORV and snowmobile activity. Local trail organizations, including the Chippewa County SORVA and the Soo Snowmobile Association, help maintain and support its use. For the latest condition or access information, contact the U.S. Forest Service or local trail clubs.

Photos of Middle Town - FS 3018

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Difficulty

This trail is a dirt, gravel, and sand road with gentle grades, safe for most 4WD and high-clearance 2WD vehicles, and is two vehicles in width.

History

Camp Raco was Michigan's first Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) facility, established in 1933 to provide jobs during the Great Depression. Young men built roads, planted trees, and worked on conservation projects. During World War II, Camp Raco was converted into a prisoner of war (POW) camp housing around 267 German prisoners. After the war, the buildings were removed, leaving only foundations and a chimney. Purpose: As part of President Roosevelt's New Deal, the CCC aimed to provide employment and train young men in conservation work. Establishment: Camp Raco was established in the Hiawatha National Forest in the Upper Peninsula, designated as Company 667. Activities: Enrollees performed work such as planting trees, constructing truck trails and campgrounds, and fighting forest fires. Impact: The CCC program, with camps like Raco, helped restore the land and provided economic relief during the Great Depression. POW Camp: After the CCC camp closed in 1942, the facilities were repurposed for use as a German POW camp. Prisoner Labor: Approximately 267 German prisoners of war captured in North Africa were held at Raco. They were contracted out for work in agriculture and forestry, providing labor for local industries and helping to alleviate wartime labor shortages. Conditions: The POWs were generally well-behaved, and conditions at Camp Raco were reported to be better than those in some Russian POW camps. Dismantlement: Following the war, the camp's buildings were removed. Remnants: Today, the former Camp Raco is known for its historical foundations and a prominent chimney, marking a site of significant historical importance in the Upper Peninsula.

Technical Rating

Middle Town - FS 3018 can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike