Ausable River Camping
Open year-round. Flash flood advisory currently in effect; monitor local weather and seek higher ground if conditions deteriorate. December 1 through April 14 is unmaintained season with no reservation required. April 15 through November 30 reservations are available via Recreation.gov. Limited to 14 nights within any 30-day period.
Freeze Warning issued May 11 at 3:29AM EDT until May 11 at 8:00AM EDT by NWS Gaylord MI
* WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures expected tonight. Low temperatures across interior northern Lower expected to drop into the 24 to 29 degree range. Counties along the lakeshores will see low temperatures range from 28 to 34 degrees. * WHERE...A portion of Northern Lower Michigan. * WHEN...Until 8 AM EDT this morning. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops and other sensitive vegetation.
From Recreation.gov
Flash floods are expected to impact outdoor activities at our location. Heed warnings and be aware of areas that are likely to flood. Seek higher ground and monitor local weather forecasts until the danger has passed. If we are forced to close and cancel your reservation due to the impact of these conditions, you’ll receive an email with more information.
About
AuSable River Dispersed Camping is a unique series of 102 primitive single-family campsites scattered along a 55-mile stretch of the lower Au Sable River within the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Sites sit on bluffs ranging from 5 to 300 feet above the waterline, and some river access may be difficult due to steep or eroding slopes. The campground offers three access types: standard drive-in sites (designated D), boat-in sites (C), and walk-to sites (W). These are true backcountry sites with no developed amenities. Campers must bring their own drinking water, portable toilets, and garbage bags for pack-out. Fire rings are available at sites. Both river and lake fishing opportunities abound for perch, bass, pike, and walleye, with the Whirlpool Angler access point being a recommended spot. Canoe rentals are available in Glennie, Hale, Mio, and Oscoda. The sites are located along the River Road National Scenic Byway, which offers scenic views of the river valley. The Au Sable River flows 138 miles across Michigan before emptying into Lake Huron.
Directions
Designated campsites are spread along 55 miles of river shoreline between the AuSable River Access at 4001 Bridge (7 miles northwest of Glennie, MI) to near the Whirlpool AuSable River Access (4 miles west of Oscoda, MI).
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 40ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (989) 362-8961 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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