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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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."
