Northeastern Michigan offers several established campgrounds near Rose City, situated in the Au Sable State Forest region where sandy soil and mixed pine-hardwood forests dominate the landscape. Most camping areas sit at elevations between 1,000-1,400 feet above sea level, creating moderate drainage conditions that help campsites dry quickly after rainfall. Winter camping options remain limited with most facilities closing between late October and early May when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Grousehaven Campground provides direct access to a no-wake lake perfect for kayakers and paddleboarders. "The lake is absolutely gorgeous and is paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear," notes Dennis B. at Grousehaven Campground.
Mountain biking trails: The Rifle River Recreation Area features trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "Amazing views and great riding for all ages!" writes Dawn C. about Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, highlighting the accessible biking opportunities throughout the park.
ORV trail access: Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground connects directly to designated ORV routes. "Several ATV trails with direct access to sites!" reports Teena J. at Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground, making it a popular base for off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
Fishing spots: Many lakes in the area offer productive fishing opportunities. At Au Sable River Primitive Camping, Don H. shares that "you are surrounded by forest and dunes and the sites themselves provide ample space for a group of 5 or more," while noting good fishing opportunities across the river.
What campers like
Site privacy: Campers consistently praise the spaciousness and separation between sites. "Spacious, pit toilets, no dump. The lake looks nice, but the campground is very buggy," reports Nicole D. about Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground, highlighting the trade-offs between space and insects.
Lake access: Waterfront sites are highly valued by visitors. "We had site 127 at Devoe lake and it was very pleasant. Quiet and lovely in late September," says Erin S. about Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, indicating that fall can be an excellent time to visit.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. Jason N. describes Spruce Rustic as "Small, rustic, remote, clean and quiet. Large and level campsites that are well spaced," noting it's "Ideal for trout anglers" with "a access point to Gamble Creek between sites 171 and 173."
Seasonal beauty: Fall camping receives particular praise. According to Ralph E. at Alcona Park, the area offers "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."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Reception varies dramatically between campgrounds. Jonathan B. reports of Au Sable River camping: "During the day and sometimes at night you can hear a lot of road traffic and also jet engine noise from the local airport," but notes "Verizon = 3-4 bars 5G" at his specific site.
Toilet facilities: Most rustic campgrounds have vault or pit toilets with varying maintenance levels. At Spruce Rustic Campground, RJ W. notes "The vault toilets do need some attention," suggesting visitors should come prepared.
Insect pressure: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in early summer. Nicole D. mentions Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground is "very buggy. So many mosquitos it is hard to sit outside."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. Erin S. explains that Devoe Lake 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."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Family-friendly swimming areas exist at several locations. Dennis B. recommends Grousehaven: "My 2.5 y/o daughter loved playing at the beach and the shallow swimming area," making it suitable for young children.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. According to Jessica J., Grousehaven Campground is "Extremely family friendly with a nice beach, park, and picnic area," providing options beyond water activities.
Educational opportunities: The region offers wildlife viewing and nature education possibilities. Tasha T. at Devoe Lake suggests "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," creating a scavenger hunt opportunity for children.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at rustic sites. Ralph E. notes that at Alcona Park, "rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad," though he found them "manageable" despite some imperfections.
Size accommodation: Many campgrounds can handle larger RVs despite being rustic. Jason N. reports about Spruce Rustic Campground: "I got my 20' trailer back there no problem," indicating accessibility for moderate-sized rigs.
Hookup limitations: Electric connections are scarce outside modern campgrounds. Stephanie C. notes that at Alcona Park you'll find "20 amp electricity on most sites," which may be insufficient for larger RV power demands.
