Crawford County, Michigan

Crawford County is a county located in the northern part of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 14,645. The county seat is Grayling, which is also the largest city in the county. Crawford County is known for its natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.

History

Crawford County was established in 1840 and named after William H. Crawford, a U.S. politician and former Secretary of the Treasury. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Ottawa and Ojibwa. European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, and the economy was initially driven by timber and fishing industries.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the county's economy diversified with the growth of agriculture, particularly the farming of crops such as wheat, corn, and hay. Today, Crawford County continues to benefit from agriculture, but its economy is heavily influenced by tourism, particularly around outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, and camping.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, Crawford County has a total area of 573 square miles, of which 564 square miles is land and 9 square miles (1.6%) is water. The county is located in the northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and is bordered by:

Otsego County to the south
Kalkaska County to the west
Roscommon County to the east
Mancelona to the northeast

Key geographic features of Crawford County include:

**The Au Sable River**: The river flows through the county and provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking along its banks.
**Lake Margrethe**: A lake located near Grayling, popular for fishing, boating, and water sports.
**Higgins Lake**: Located to the southeast, this lake is known for its clear waters and recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing.

Economy

Crawford County’s economy is based on tourism, agriculture, forestry, and services. Major sectors include:

**Tourism**: The county's natural resources, including its lakes, rivers, and forests, make it a popular destination for outdoor activities. Many visitors come for boating, fishing, hiking, hunting, and snowmobiling.
**Agriculture**: Crawford County has a strong agricultural presence, with crops such as corn, hay, and wheat, as well as livestock farming.
**Forestry**: The county is rich in forest resources, which contribute to the timber industry, including logging and wood products.
**Retail and Services**: The city of Grayling and surrounding areas serve as retail and service hubs for the county, providing shopping, dining, and recreational services to both residents and visitors.

Communities

Crawford County includes one city, several villages, and numerous townships.

Grayling (city): The county seat and largest city, located along the Au Sable River, known for its historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and role as a regional service center.
Mio (village): A small village located in the southern part of the county, known for its rural atmosphere and proximity to outdoor recreation.
Frederic (village): A village located in the western part of the county, popular for its access to the Au Sable River and outdoor activities.

Townships

Crawford County is divided into 8 townships:

Beaver Creek Township
Garfield Township
Grayling Township
Lovells Township
Maple Forest Township
Mitcheltown Township
North Branch Township
South Branch Township

Parks and Recreation

Crawford County offers several parks and recreational activities, including:

**Grayling State Forest**: A state forest offering hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a pristine natural environment.
**Au Sable River**: Known for its trout fishing and scenic beauty, the river is a central feature of the county’s outdoor recreation.
**Higgins Lake State Park**: Located near the southeastern part of the county, this park offers trails, camping, and access to Higgins Lake for boating, swimming, and fishing.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Crawford County had a population of 14,645. The population is predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Hispanic, and Native American residents. The county is largely rural, with a mix of seasonal vacation homes and year-round residents. The largest population centers are in the city of Grayling and the surrounding townships.

Education

Crawford County is served by several school districts:

Higher education opportunities include:

Kirtland Community College: A community college offering associate degrees and vocational programs, located in nearby Roscommon.

Transportation

Crawford County is served by several major highways:

U.S. Route 27: Runs through the county, providing access to Grayling and nearby cities.
M-72: A state highway that runs east-west through the county, providing access to the eastern and western parts of the county.

Public transportation is available through the Crawford County Transit system, offering bus services for local residents.

References

United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Crawford County, Michigan."
Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Grayling State Forest."
Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.