Best Camping near Mio, MI

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Mio, MI (190)

    Camper-submitted photo from Au Sable River Primitive Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Au Sable River Primitive Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Au Sable River Primitive Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Au Sable River Primitive Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Au Sable River Primitive Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Au Sable River Primitive Camping

    1. Au Sable River Primitive Camping

    11 Reviews
    40 Photos
    209 Saves

    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

    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.

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest

    2. Huron-Manistee National Forest

    9 Reviews
    35 Photos
    179 Saves

    Lying between the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron in the northern half of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, the nearly one-million-acre Huron-Manistee National Forests are located in a transition zone between forested lands to the north and agricultural lands to the south. The Huron-Manistee National Forests contain rare ecological features, such as dry sand prairie remnants, coastal marshlands, dunes, oak savannahs, fens, bogs and marshes.

    Working hand in hand with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and other partners, the Huron-Manistee National Forests have made great progress in recovering these lands but a great deal of work remains, much of which is being done through partnerships.The Huron-Manistee National Forests provide recreation opportunities for visitors, habitat for fish and wildlife, and resources for local industry.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $10 - $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area

    3. Devoe Lake Rustic Campround — Rifle River Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    47 Photos
    6 Saves

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    4. Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    30 Photos
    127 Saves

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground

    5. Otsego Lake State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    67 Photos
    62 Saves

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground

    6. Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground

    8 Reviews
    20 Photos
    53 Saves

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79134_79210---,00.html

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park

    7. Alcona Park

    8 Reviews
    39 Photos
    89 Saves

    Alcona Park is located on the historic Au Sable River floodwaters above the Alcona Dam, this 1100 acre park has three miles of shoreline on each side of this trophy fish producing river.

    The park is surrounded by the Huron National Forest and is a favorite home away from home for many vacationers. The river provides quality fishing of Walleye, Pike, Perch, Bass and Trout. Canoeing, boating, swimming, fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing are all popular activities for visitors. Over 450 campsites available. Camping cabins are available for rent!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $16 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oscoda County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oscoda County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oscoda County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oscoda County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oscoda County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oscoda County Park

    8. Oscoda County Park

    5 Reviews
    8 Photos
    11 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp

    9. Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp

    6 Reviews
    24 Photos
    58 Saves

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from North Higgins Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Higgins Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Higgins Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Higgins Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Higgins Lake State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from North Higgins Lake State Park Campground

    10. North Higgins Lake State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    23 Photos
    54 Saves

    Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more:https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 190 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Mio

Recent Reviews In Mio

511 Reviews of 190 Mio Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Jewell Lake Campground
    September 23, 2024

    Jewell Lake Campground

    Great place

    Only stayed one night but it was a very nice stay. Private but not secluded. Encountered a bear in the night but it retreated back into the woods. Did have my dog with me. I would definitely go back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Emerick Park Campground
    September 23, 2024

    Emerick Park Campground

    Quaint and Close to town

    Small campground with boat launch, shower house, and bathrooms. Connect’s to a park with playground and pickleball court. Easy to walk or ride your bicycle into town for ice cream. No swim beach but good fishing opportunities on the thunder river.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Alpena County Fairground
    September 7, 2024

    Alpena County Fairground

    Better than expected

    Alpena Fairground camp sites are conveniently located right off Route 23 within minutes of local attractions and historic sites.  The RV / trailer sites were spacious enough with water views of the Alpena wildlife sanctuary and Thunder Bay River. The sunset views are lovely. We launched our kayaks right from our site and paddled around the sanctuary.  Be aware, you cannot access Thunder Bay and Lake Huron from here.  Access is blocked off at 9th street dam.  If you want to head into Thunder Bay it’s best to just drive down and launch in at marina.  And if you head down River you will have to paddle upstream to get back, not fun in high winds. Camping is quiet, only a few other campers there.  Be mindful the fairgrounds hosts events during the year.  The circus stopped to perform during our three days there but we didn’t hear a sound or notice anyone around.  The restrooms and showers were clean enough, located near fairground entrance.  Holly the caretaker was courteous to answer my questions over the phone before arrival and during check in. Her home office is located near entrance, it’s a small rancher house.  Water and dump available as well near entrance.  Overall a nice quiet stay.  The should invest in new fire rings.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Alcona Park
    September 5, 2024

    Alcona Park

    very nice campground

    nice campground with plenty of woods and water. rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad. they have full, semi and rustic sites. camped here 4 times and enjoyed my time. PRO'S- great fishing, playgrounds for kids, great for riding bikes, sites are clean and many have good space for larger campers, staff is friendly and reliable. CONS- showers need more pressure, roads can get extremely dusty when it's dry, "beach" is small and rocky and on a slop which is difficult to walk on due to too many rocks in what little sand there is however the whole lakeshore is rocks so wear water shoes, while it didn't bother me, it can get a little loud at nite, after 10pm "quite time" but nothing really serious, some rustic sites could use some dirt to level them up but manageable, rustic sites, IMO, are a little expensive at $20 a night but I've camped at others that were $40! summing my review up, I enjoyed every time I camped here! caught lots of fish from walleye to crappie, even a 6.3lb small mouth bass!! very nice campground that I will continue to camp at and recommend!!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Arrowhead Lake Camp
    September 3, 2024

    Arrowhead Lake Camp

    Amazing place

    This place was fantastic. We stayed in the Lakeside cabins. Amazing views! We went kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and fishing. The wildlife is plentiful and the lake is full of fish. The staff are fantastic. If we needed anything, they were there in minutes. Always courteous and friendly. Will definitely be back

  • Camper-submitted photo from Canada Creek Ranch Club House
    August 29, 2024

    Canada Creek Ranch Club House

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  • Camper-submitted photo from Muskegon River Canoe Camp
    July 30, 2024

    Muskegon River Canoe Camp

    A quiet spot on the Muskegon River

    A great place for dispersed camping. Don't forget the bug spray! Only 20 minutes from town if you did! Great two weeks here!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tawas River RV Park
    July 29, 2024

    Tawas River RV Park

    Trailer Park

    This campground was disappointing to say the least. Bathrooms were nasty with fruit flies no toilet paper either. The dump station was in poor condition. The non potable water didn’t even work. Our electric box didn’t work we had to use the box next to us. The bugs were awful! There was raw sewage there as well. It smelled so bad. You’re also in a trailer park with condemned trailers! The park was in bad shape as well. The site we reserved wasn’t even vacant!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tawas Point State Park Campground
    July 28, 2024

    Tawas Point State Park Campground

    Nice location

    Nice park. Can feel a little tight on some spaces, especially if your neighbor sprawls over the lines. Restrooms could use a little improvement (like replacing the crappy doors leading into the building) and some maintenance, but are clean. Being on a point between Lake Huron & Tawas Bay, there's almost always some breeze. There's beaches on both sides of the point. Staff friendly. Like most MI State Park sites, it's electric only. Tawas has no (as of this review) FHU sites. There's the Tawas Point Lighthouse here, which you can climb for a few bucks. Nice little gift shop next to it. It can get really packed here on weekends, and the day use gets closed because of being too full.

    Big rigs, note that the roads can be tight, especially when inconsiderate campers crowd the road, cause you know... It's all about them.

    All in all, it's one of our favorite state parks.

    Hit Klenow's Market in town. They do great sandwiches!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp
    July 21, 2024

    Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground & Canoe Camp

    Quite, Spacious sites

    Most campgrounds we have been to had lots of road noise but not this one! We stayed for 2 nights/3days and this campground was quite.

    The vault toilets were well stocked with toilet paper, although one had a hornets nest inside and the other was extremely smelly.

    Access to the river was good and the sites were a decent size with privacy in between.

    We enjoyed walking some of the nearby trails

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hartwick Pines State Park Campground
    July 15, 2024

    Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    Hartwick Pines State Park Campground

    Very nice and well maintained campground. Bath house facilities were very clean, and campsites were fairly spaced, giving decent privacy. There are some activities in the area related to the park. All in all a very nice State Park campground.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    July 12, 2024

    Otsego Lake State Park Campground

    Nice surprise

    First time camping here. Site 72 had a nice view if the make. Very nice park. Bathrooms s d dhowers ckean for really need to be upgraded. They have a ni. ce dog beach bit no real wslking trails as it is only 64 acres. Very nice beach! Already booked our next trip there.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake State Park Campground
    July 1, 2024

    Otsego Lake State Park Campground

    State Park in Gaylord

    The park has a small sandy beach the swim area is sandy. The playground needs some updating. A lot of the sites back up to the busy road and you can hear road traffic noise all day and night.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Creek Resort
    July 1, 2024

    Beaver Creek Resort

    Rv resort in Gaylord

    Campground across the road from Otsego Lake. The campground has lots to do for kids but the sites are small and the trees are small.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gaylord KOA
    July 1, 2024

    Gaylord KOA

    KOA Campground right outside Gaylord

    This is so great koa with no road noise. The trees are mature and beautiful. This is a great laid back, family campground. The sites are bigger than other campgrounds in the area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Lake State Forest Campground
    June 29, 2024

    Jackson Lake State Forest Campground

    Quiet private camping on a small but charming lake

    Large wooded sites- many with lake access. Clean and stocked outhouses. Small lake but opportunities for fishing and swimming. Some road noise is noticeable.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South Higgins Lake State Park Campground
    June 13, 2024

    South Higgins Lake State Park Campground

    Great campground but you cant reserve a spot

    Well, the campground is old. Everything works very well. The sites are decent size. They’re plenty of small playgrounds throughout the campground. The beach is amazing the views awesome however when it comes to booking, it’s impossible to get a spot somehow they’re already booked before they even allowed to be booked and it’s every good spot

  • Camper-submitted photo from Rifle River Campground
    June 9, 2024

    Rifle River Campground

    Awesome campgrounds @ Rifle River

    The only complaint about the week I spent was they didn’t cut the grass, other than that I had an amazing birthday week at Rifle River Campground,  we found amazing flowers blooming  like yellow and pink lady slippers I even found Agates, fossils if you’re a rock hunter and when you climb up the tower there’s a extremely large eagles nest.

    The fishing wasn’t very successful I only caught a small one but the water was warm and clear you could see the sand doons.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Otsego Lake County Park
    May 31, 2024

    Otsego Lake County Park

    Great campground on Otsego Lake

    This is a great campground South of Gaylord on Otsego Lake. I believe all sites have electric. The park is beautiful with a many sites having lake views. The playground is the classic old playground with swings and slides and some big tires to climb on. The water was mostly sand with some rocks. The campground has 4 cabins to rent right on the lake.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Shoepac Lake State Forest Campground
    May 27, 2024

    Shoepac Lake State Forest Campground

    Big lake but no direct water sites

    Peaceful and quiet and close to the sinkhole pathway. Clean bathrooms and large mostly private sites. You can launch your boat and beach it near the campground and your campsite but no direct access that we saw.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground
    May 27, 2024

    Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground

    Slice of paradise!

    This hidden gem has large private sites..many with direct lake access. There is a beach/swim area as well as a small trail from the beach to the boat launch. Good fishing and clean outhouses too!



Guide to Mio

Camping near Mio, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and biking trails: Many campgrounds, like Hartwick Pines State Park Campground, have trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. One visitor mentioned, "There are many walking trails and bike trails too," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Swimming and beach access: Campgrounds such as Burt Lake State Park Campground feature beautiful beaches. A camper noted, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area," which is perfect for families looking to cool off.
  • Fishing opportunities: Many lakes in the area provide excellent fishing spots. One reviewer at Aloha State Park Campground shared, "Fishing off the inlet and jetties were good," making it a great choice for anglers.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at P.H. Hoeft State Park Campground remarked, "The bathrooms had showers, though they definitely could use an update," indicating that while they are clean, some improvements could be made.
  • Privacy between sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites. One camper at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground said, "The campsites were nice and level and reasonably large," which is a plus for those seeking a quieter experience.
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of park staff. A visitor at Young State Park Campground noted, "Very friendly staff and clean park," highlighting the welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know:

  • Busy roads: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can lead to noise. A camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Most of the sites back up to the busy road and you can hear road traffic noise all day and night."
  • Crowded during peak season: Many campgrounds can get packed, especially on weekends. A visitor at Tawas Point State Park Campground said, "It can get really packed here on weekends," so planning your visit during off-peak times might be wise.
  • Limited reservations: Some campgrounds have a hard time booking spots. A camper at South Higgins Lake State Park Campground noted, "It's impossible to get a spot somehow they’re already booked before they even allowed to be booked."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose campgrounds with beaches: Look for campgrounds like Burt Lake State Park Campground that have sandy beaches. A family-friendly camper said, "Has a beautiful sand beach with a shallower swim area for younger kids."
  • Check for playgrounds: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. One camper at South Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "There are plenty of small playgrounds throughout the campground."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Young State Park Campground suggested, "There are lots of hiking and biking trails," which can be fun for the whole family.

Tips from RVers:

  • Be mindful of site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A reviewer at Tawas Point State Park Campground warned, "Sites feel close and everyone was very nosey," so consider your RV size when booking.
  • Check for electric hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground noted, "Electric hookup. Pet friendly park and beach area."
  • Book early: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. A visitor at Aloha State Park Campground advised, "Getting a site here during the summer can be very difficult."

Camping near Mio, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Mio, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Mio, MI offers a wide range of camping options, with 190 campgrounds and RV parks near Mio, MI and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Mio, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mio, MI is Au Sable River Primitive Camping with a 4.7-star rating from 11 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mio, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Mio, MI.

  • What parks are near Mio, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Mio, MI that allow camping, notably Huron-Manistee National Forests and Sleeping Bear Dunes.