Michigan's AuSable River State Forest Campground sits directly on the water in Grayling, managed by the state and open year-round. Campers arrive by car, boat, or on foot, and RVs up to 20 feet can access water hookups. River traffic is a real factor here: floaters pass regularly during warmer months, which means noise is part of the experience. Rates run $6 to $20 per night, pets are welcome, and the site includes toilets and trash service. Those planning a paddling trip along this stretch of the AuSable will find Burton's Landing State Forest Campground less than a mile southeast, one of several places to camp near Grayling along this corridor.
Description
This scenic, rustic campground sits on the beautiful Au Sable River surrounded by tall pines and hardwoods. The Au Sable River is known for trout fishing and paddle sports.
There are 8 sites for tent and small trailer use. There are an additional 5 paddle-in/walk-in group sites near the river. The group camping rate of $6/person/night is applied at these sites. Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water from a hand-pump well. The campground is located 7 miles east of Grayling via North Down River Road and Headquarters Road. Sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations
This campground is managed by Hartwick Pines State Park.: https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=453&type=SPRK
Reservation Info
Sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAuSable River State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp is located in Michigan near Grayling
Public CampgroundDirections
Located 7 miles East of Grayling via North Down River Rd., & Headquarters Rd.
Coordinates
44.66561676 N
84.65471967 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 9/19/26- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 9/19/26
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 59 min from Traverse City, MI
- 1 hr 17 min from Midland, MI
- 1 hr 19 min from Bay City, MI
- 1 hr 29 min from Saginaw, MI
