The Rifle River Recreation Area spans over 4,500 acres of forestland in northeastern Michigan, with terrain varying from marshy lowlands to pine-covered hills. Yurt camping near Prescott, Michigan provides access to five interconnected lakes and multiple streams within a 30-minute drive. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with spring offering the highest water for paddling activities.
What to do
Kayaking the Rifle River: Launch from various access points within the recreation area. "Private sites are open and surrounded by trees," notes Daniel C. about Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, which offers direct water access.
Fishing for multiple species: The Au Gres River contains various fish species and offers less crowded fishing spots. "The water is super clean and crystal clear, and usually sand or rock bottom," explains one visitor to Devoe Lake, where anglers regularly catch bluegills and sunfish.
Hiking the observation tower trail: Located near Grebe Lake, this trail leads to panoramic views. "The overlook tower is definitely worth the hike and there's a hidden surprise at the same location for those who know where to look," mentions Tasha T. from Devoe Lake Rustic Campground.
Mountain biking: The recreation area contains trails suitable for various skill levels. Dawn C. reports Devoe Lake Rustic Campground has "amazing views and great riding for all ages!"
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Most rustic yurt sites and tent areas offer good separation from neighbors. "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded by trees," notes Daniel C. at Devoe Lake.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing year-round. "I spent four days here summer of 17. Well maintained sites. Lots of hiking opportunities," says David F. about the recreation area.
Accessible yurt options: Grousehaven Campground offers modern yurt accommodations with electricity. "The campground was always well maintained and had some of the cleanest bathrooms and showers of any campground I have stayed at," reports Jessica J.
Multiple lake access: Each lake in the recreation area has distinct features. Dennis B. notes about Grousehaven Campground: "The lake is absolutely gorgeous and is paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Sites must be booked in advance, especially for yurts. Erin S. from Devoe Lake Rustic Campground advises, "Sites require a reservation either at the office or online. Not somewhere you can just pay for on spot because it's in the rifle river recreation area."
Bathroom facilities vary: Modern campgrounds have shower facilities while rustic areas have vault toilets. RJ W. points out that at Spruce Rustic Campground, "The vault toilets do need some attention."
Seasonal crowd patterns: The area becomes significantly more crowded on holiday weekends. "I camped in one of the rustic campgrounds over a holiday weekend and it got a little too rowdy for my tastes," shares Ashleigh M. about her July 4th experience.
Weather considerations: Spring brings higher precipitation and water levels, while fall offers colorful foliage but cooler temperatures for yurt camping.
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas with gradual entry: River View Campground offers family-friendly water access. Jennifer S. notes, "Family goes there every year. Campground offers many amenities and with the river right on site there is so much to do."
Playgrounds and organized activities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "There is a small playground in the campground," mentions Hallee L. about Grousehaven Campground, which also has "a trail connected us to a grassy area, boathouse, and beach."
Equipment rentals: Canoe and kayak rentals available at multiple locations eliminate the need to transport equipment. Megan W. shares about River View Campground: "This is a fun camp with lots of stuff to do. Nothing like grabbing a tube and flowing down the river with friends."
Swimming areas with supervision: Look for designated swimming areas with better oversight. "The kids tossed on their PFD's and floated the river from the bridge to our site," notes one visitor about the safer swimming options for children.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup availability: Northern Bear Paw RV Park offers full-service sites near the recreation area. "The campsites are nicely laid out with comfortable amenities. With a soothing creek whispering in the background of our campsite," reports Colin L.
Road conditions and access: Some recreation area roads narrow considerably. Jason N. from Spruce Rustic Campground advises, "I got my 20' trailer back there no problem," but larger RVs may struggle with access.
Dump station locations: Identify sanitary stations before arrival as not all campgrounds offer this service. Northern Bear Paw RV Park maintains on-site dumping facilities available to registered guests.
Electrical service types: Check amperage availability when booking. Northern Bear Paw offers both 30 and 50-amp service, while Grousehaven Campground provides only 30-amp connections.
