Au Sable River Primitive Camping, near Oscoda, Michigan, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a rustic experience surrounded by nature. With spacious, private sites right by the water, it’s perfect for setting up your tent or RV and enjoying the great outdoors.

This campground is all about the natural beauty, with stunning views of the river and plenty of opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper saying, “The absolute BEST campsite I have ever camped at in Michigan!” The lack of modern amenities like electric hookups and showers means you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the wilderness.

For those who love to explore, there are trails nearby and the chance to float down the river, making it a great place for adventure. Campers have noted the friendly rangers who stop by to check in, adding to the welcoming vibe of the area. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Au Sable River Primitive Camping offers a memorable escape into nature.

## Overview

 AuSable River Dispersed Camping is a unique series of 102 individually designated single-family campsites on a 55-mile stretch of the lovely AuSable River. All campsites are within Alcona and Iosco Counties in Michigan. These rustic sites are divided into sections near Alcona Pond, the AuSable Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized Area, Loud Pond, Five Channels Pond, Cooke Pond, Foote Pond and Lower Ausable. Each are ideal for family camping, with opportunities for fly fishing, swimming, canoeing and bird watching.
## Recreation

 Both river and lake fishing are available for perch, bass and pike walleye. One recommended spot is the Whirlpool Angler access point. All sites are also near the River Road National Scenic Byway, which offers wonderful views of the river valley. The campground has boat-in camping, and canoe rentals are available in Glennie, Hale, Mio and Oscoda.
## Facilities

 All sites are primitive with no drinking water, toilets or trash removal. Campers are expected to bring plenty of water, portable toilets and garbage bags. Parking aprons are dirt or gravel.
## Natural Features

 Campsites sit on bluffs that range from five to 300 feet above the waterline of the lower AuSable River. Depending on the site, access to the river may be difficult due to steep or eroding slopes. The AuSable River meanders across 138 miles of Michigan and flows into the great lake, Lake Huron.

Au Sable River Primitive Camping

Mio, MI is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Mio is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Mio. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping Near Mio, Michigan

This place was set up unlike any other I have been to yet. Our campsite was right along the AuSable River and we kayaked in. There are just over 100 sites on a 50 mile stretch of the river so things are secluded and peaceful. The sites are divided up across several "ponds." Our site was situated with a fairly steep slope to the river which was challenging but not impossible. We went kayaking for a full day and loved it! There is no potable water so bring a filter, no toilets so bring a shovel, and it is pack-in pack-out. There was a campfire ring at the site. The fishing here was ok. More of an excuse to be on the water than anything. There are fly fishing opportunities here but I was not equipped for it. 

Favorite spot in MI

We visited this campsite for a long weekend in October, looking for that autumn experience. Our site was right on the lake, and had a great view of the river and the trees changing. Our site was very large, especially for tent camping, and that seemed to be the trend. Others were camping with campers and tents, but there was pretty of room to spread out in the late fall.

Drive in Capsite perfect for the fall

So much fun floating down the river! This camp spot had a rope swing attached, so look out for this spot by mio!

Great time!

This is a beautiful place to camp. I’ve only been to the boat-in only sites and I love it. You are surrounded by forest and dunes and the sites themselves provide ample space for a group of 5 or more. The islands (site 41c specifically) are the best spots - there’s very little reason to worry about critters when you’re on an island. The one thing I don’t like are the powered boats. In the “lower AuSable” areas like Cooke Dam Pond, you will see and hear pontoon boats, speed boats and the occasional jet ski, which kind of takes away from the dispersed camping/backcountry feel. Still a wonderful place to get away from it all.

Beautiful

I first camped here in college when some friends organized a group to go during our spring break.  It was such a fun time.  Our site was private and had great access to the pond/river below.  The rangers stopped by just to say hi and were very cool.

Remembering this trip and camping area, my wife and I decided to take our toddler on his first rustic camping trip.  It was a bit stressful as our site had a significant drop off to the river below.  This meant we were constantly chasing our crazy kid to ensure he didn’t take a tumble down.  There are sites with a much less significant drop off.  Our goal is to get one of those next year. That being said, it was a lot of fun.  There were steps at our site that made it easy for us to carry and put in our kayaks for day trips on the Cooke Dam Pond.  Fishing was excellent.  Sunsets and sunrises were great.  Our site had lots of shade and space.  I would definitely recommend this place. Book early to have your pick of sites or late to look for last minute cancellations. 

Just As I Remember 

We absolutely love camping here weather it’s in a tent, hammock or RV we have always loved camping here. 

Night sounds are so relaxing. 


We typically do the sites closer to Mio sites 1-6 

Plenty of trails and fishing. 

No water 
No electric
No sewer 



Peaceful • Rustic 

Beautiful spots, nicely spaced, right on the water. Ranger stopped in to say hey each day. I plan on going back before it gets too busy.

Beautiful 

The site we stayed at had an amazing view and was right on the water.

Amazing veiw

The absolute BEST campsite I have ever camped at in Michigan! The perfect morning and evening view of the river. Directly across from the best fishing spot and shoreline to soak up the summer sun. Kayaking only to get there was SUCH a fun experience! Highly recommend this gem of a spot.

HEAVEN + HAPPINESS + PERFECTION

The drive in sites near the whirlpool are my favorite sites in the Lower Penninsula.   Quiet and very private.  They only have a fire ring, no picnic tables or bathrooms.   Large, wide open sites overlooking the Ausable River.   We can at site 101 every year and will continue to do so for a long time.  

My favorite place in the LP

I launched from the Pine Acres Boat Launch and stayed at one of the primitive campsites on Cooke Dam Pond. The boat-in sites are great because they're super spaced out and private. Always an enjoyable time!

Amazing, as always!

The site was truly rustic.  About 1/4 mile to the next site.  Nice clearing with multiple spots you could maneuver a small camper back into if you are a good enough driver.  If not, there is a nice clearing by the road that also works.  Had a fire ring with a flip over grill.  Trails run back into woods to potential cat hole locations.  For water, you can head up the road a few miles to the lumberman monument park, and they have a fauset by the parking lot.  Also, about 1/8 mile down the road is an established path down to the Au Sable River to get water to extinguish your campfire but not for drinking (this stretch of the river is not safe to drink).  During the day and sometimes at night you can hear a lot of road traffic and also jet engine noise from the local airport.  Good openings for solar if you are using movable panels or can get your camper back far enough, but not so good in the default parking spot.  Verizon = 3-4 bars 5G.

Photos of Au Sable River Primitive Camping

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