1 campground with availability this weekend
Tent campgrounds near Grayling, Michigan offer a mix of rustic state forest sites and backcountry experiences along the Au Sable River corridor, ranging from drive-in tent campsites to boat-in and hike-in only locations. Grayling tent camping spans primitive canoe-access sites to walk-in campgrounds, making it a strong destination for campers who prefer a more natural, low-facility setup. Keystone Landing State Forest Campground provides tent camping from April through October with sites that accommodate walk-in and boat-in access. White Pine Canoe Camp and Wakeley Lake Campground in Huron Manistee National Forests offer more secluded tent-only options for campers seeking primitive experiences.
Most tent campsites in the Grayling area include fire rings and picnic tables, though drinking water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. Keystone Landing and Rainbow Bend provide potable water through hand pumps, while more remote locations like White Pine Canoe Camp require campers to bring their own water supplies. Vault toilets are common at established sites, but facilities receive minimal maintenance. Access varies from drive-in sites to boat-in and hike-in only locations, with some campgrounds like 4-Mile Trail Camp offering walk-in tent sites designed for equestrian use with tie-out poles for horses.
The natural setting provides excellent opportunities for solitude and outdoor recreation. Areas around Wakeley Lake feature high ratings for their seclusion, earning perfect 5-star ratings from visitors. One camper noted that White Pine Canoe Camp offers "a solid canoe only campsite" with limited facilities but exceptional river access. Tent campers particularly appreciate the shaded sites along the Au Sable River, which provide excellent fishing opportunities in what locals refer to as the "Holy Waters." Wildlife sightings are common, with primitive tent sites offering the most natural experience. During spring and summer months, campers should be prepared for ticks and mosquitoes, especially at riverside tent campsites where insects can be prevalent during warm evenings.
"You get the best of both worlds here, camping on the river but close to Grayling. The campsites are fairly secluded and shaded."
"Nice spot with solid fire ring. There was also connection so we could watch football"
"Short backpacking walk to this no-reservations rustic campsite. You need a backcountry permit and there’s usually a small fee. Lovely forested secluded tent sites."
"After a short mile or so hike over a mostly level sandy trail you'll reach to the campground. It's located in a part of the forest with lots of ridges."
"One other camper nearby but completely out of earshot."
"Loved camping on this lake. We hauled our canoe loaded with our tent and amenities on a dolly the half mile or so back to the camp sites."
from $10 / night
"I don’t have horses but I’ve seen people stay with horse trailers with their tie outs to the poles that are designed for it. There’s trails in the surrounding areas."
"By the lake... lots of trails for exploring. Good area for hunting upland game. Can’t wait to go again!"
"If you like to rough it, but be able to drive to your campground, this is your place. Get back to nature here with no running water or electric."
"The site had 2 vault toilets. The water pump was out of commission and there was very limited access to dry wood or dead trees, but fortunately we brought enough water and pre-made foods."
"Firefly evening strolls on sandy trails through the woods. Dog friendly. Seasonal family gathering spot. Helpful camp hosts give a friendly wave several times daily."
ScoutNice little spot. There are lots of places to camp around each of the lakes. There is a bathroom near the first lake. Have to park in the parking lot and walk down. The first spot is about 0.5 mile down the path. Very secluded
ScoutGreat campsite. Nice spot with solid fire ring. There was also connection so we could watch football
ScoutBeautiful campground. Quiet and peaceful. Large sites provide privacy. Beautiful sunsets .
GuideI was in Ellsworth for the first day of the Antrim Paddle Festival. My campsite was on the edge of a grassy bluff overlooking a park, and Lake Ellsworth beach. Lake Ellsworth is the beginning of Northern Western Michigan's Chain of Lakes water trail. A 100-mile inland flatwater trail with 12 lakes, interconnecting rivers and only one portage, a small dam in Bellaire.
Wooden Shoe is a city campground. Campsites with electric are $35. per night, $25 for tent sites. It has a building with men and women restrooms/showers, I can only speak for the men's side which had with 2 showers, sinks, 2 stalls and a urinal which was clean and in good shape. You're given the door combination to enter.
From the bluff I had a full view of the park below which had a pavilion, sand beach and a dock with a kayak launch.
My campsite was closer to the next than I like but the campground was quiet. The campground has Wi-Fi, but I never got the password, so used my T-Mobile hotspot.
Camp host was a friendly lady.
For more info on water trail: https://www.paddleantrim.com
ScoutWe went during off season, could only imagine how much fun it would be in the peak season. enjoyed the pool and hot tub. All staff was helpful and courteous! Will be our go to!
TravelerThe 2 good things about this campground was the full hook up & the large site size. However, my site & a few surrounding sites smelled like sewage from the moment I stepped out of my truck. I couldn't sit outside to enjoy the "fresh" air or open my windows. The picnic table was backed against utility boxes, & the fire pit was within a few feet of the camper behind me. Supposedly there are 3 dog beaches. I found 1 that was a tiny spot with a little bit of sand. I walked over a mile to the park's edge following signs for another dog beach. It didn't exist. Dog beaches are not marked on the map.
GuideNice camp on the Sturgeon. Also on Old 27 which is good if you like white noise, good for getting out. Best because with the bike trail following river you can spot yourself canoeing and save big bucks.
GuideAwesome campground many sites waterfront or views. Long Lake campground on same access rd. Secluded yet 2 mi from Lake City. Very nice
RangerWe really enjoyed our stay at Young State Park. Our site was just steps from the wooden walkway down to beautiful Lake Charlevoix, where we had amazing sunsets each night. The park is also a great base for exploring the area—we biked to Boyne Falls/Boyne Mountain and SkyBridge, rockhounded along Lake Michigan in Charlevoix, and canoed the beautiful Jordan River with nearby Jordan Valley Outfitters.
The sites are very close together. We stayed Sunday–Wednesday late in the summer season and had several open sites around us, which gave us plenty of breathing room. I’m not sure I’d love it during peak summer when the campground is full, as I imagine it could feel pretty crowded. The bathhouses and showers were very clean, and the water pressure and temperature were heavenly after a day outdoors.
Reserving online was easy, and the staff at check-in were friendly and helpful. Firewood at the campground was pricey, but we found a nearby home selling various-sized loads for much less. We’d definitely camp here again—especially outside the busiest part of the summer season.
Tent camping near Grayling, Michigan centers around the Au Sable River corridor, with sites typically situated on sandy soil amid pine and hardwood forests. The region's continental climate brings warm summers with evening temperatures that can drop significantly, especially along the river. Most primitive campsites in the area remain open from April through October, though several operate year-round with reduced services during winter months.
Fishing access: Rainbow Bend State Forest Campground provides direct river access for fishing the Au Sable's trout waters. "Perfect spot to go down the river and then bike back and get your car or go down the river and get out at the bridge," notes camper Heidi S.
Paddling routes: Plan multi-day paddling trips with overnight stops at designated canoe camps. The distance between most river campsites averages 5-8 miles, making for manageable day segments. "We stayed at White Pine Canoe Camp for the 1st night of a 3 day kayaking trip," shares Sean G.
Wildlife viewing: Wakeley Lake Area offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities along multiple trails. "Lots of trails for exploring. Good area for hunting upland game," according to Mariah R., who gave the area a perfect 5-star rating.
Secluded sites: Wakeley Lake Campground offers walk-in tent sites that provide significant privacy. John H. reports, "We hauled our canoe loaded with our tent and amenities on a dolly the half mile or so back to the camp sites. Some of the best catch and release artificial lure only fishing."
River proximity: Many campers appreciate sites situated directly on the Au Sable. "Great, quiet, cozy place to take kids or anyone for that matter. Right on the river and clean, flat lots," writes Tiffany M. about Rainbow Bend.
Limited crowds: Several campgrounds remain uncrowded even during peak season. At 4-Mile Trail Camp, "It's never busy here," according to Lexi G., making it ideal for those seeking solitude without the need for remote access.
Water availability varies: White Pine Canoe Camp has inconsistent water access. "The water pump was out of commission and there was very limited access to dry wood or dead trees, but fortunately we brought enough water and pre-made foods," notes Sean G.
Access limitations: Many riverside campsites can only be reached by boat. Jessica mentions White Pine is "a nice small camp ground, to get to by boat or kayak. 1st night of 3 night river trip with second night at rainbow bend third and final stop at parmalee."
Seasonal pests: Ticks are common in spring and early summer. "Watch out for ticks in the spring," warns Walt S. about camping near the river at Keystone Landing.
River-based camping: For families with older children, consider a river camping route with multiple night stops. Tiffany M. describes Rainbow Bend as "Great, quiet, cozy place to take kids or anyone for that matter. Right on the river and clean, flat lots."
Drive-in convenience: Keystone Landing State Forest Campground offers the convenience of drive-in sites while maintaining a natural setting. Susan F. reports, "Spent a week here with only two other campers. Rustic. Maintained Gravel Road. Variety of trees. Walking path to AuSable River."
Noise considerations: When camping with children, sites with limited neighboring campsites reduce noise concerns. At Wakeley Lake, Sara C. notes, "One other camper nearby but completely out of earshot."
Rustic limitations: Most campgrounds near Grayling offer minimal facilities for RVs. 4-Mile Trail Camp provides only basic amenities like "water pump and vault toilets. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided as well," according to Lexi G.
Equestrian camping: Horse owners can utilize specialized facilities at 4-Mile Trail Camp, where "I've seen people stay with horse trailers with their tie outs to the poles that are designed for it," Lexi G. observes.
Campfire requirements: Follow local firewood restrictions to protect forests. Susan F. from Great Circle Campground explains, "This Policy helps protect the woodland from invasive pest, fungi, and virus. Please don't transport wood in or out of Roscommon County."
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grayling, MI is Keystone Landing State Forest Campground with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.
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