Rifle River Recreation Area offers several pet-friendly camping options near Rose City, Michigan. Located in Ogemaw County at elevations between 850 and 1,050 feet, the area features glacial terrain with rolling hills and kettle lakes. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer camping season brings temperatures between 65-85°F with moderate humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Alcona Park provides access to multiple fish species along the AuSable River. "This is a great place to camp. I love that all the sites are in view of the ausable River," notes camper Ann K., while another visitor reported catching "lots of fish from walleye to crappie, even a 6.3lb small mouth bass!!"
Mountain biking trails: Devoe Lake Rustic Campground features "excellent biking trails" with "amazing views and great riding for all ages" according to Dawn C. The campground connects to a network of trails suitable for riders of various skill levels.
Paddle sports: Several lakes within Rifle River Recreation Area support non-motorized boating. At Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground, "the lake is small but good for kayak & paddle boarding. Areas of sand but fairly murky. We swam and floated for a few hours in tubes," reports D G., highlighting the lake's versatility for water activities.
What campers like
Private camping sites: Spruce Rustic Campground features "large and level campsites that are well spaced" that are "nice, rustic, remote, clean and quiet." Jason N. adds that "Although only one of the sites has a river view this campground is ideal for trout anglers."
Modern and rustic camping options: Campers appreciate the variety of accommodation styles. At Grousehaven Campground, Dennis B. notes the campground is "smaller well shaded" with "the lake absolutely gorgeous and paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear."
Lake access: Island Lake offers a quieter alternative to busier campgrounds. "Rustic camping is the best when you want to escape and unplug, and this small, unpopulated lake is the best place to do it," writes Emily M., adding that "The walking and hiking is so great and there are plenty of trees on each site for shade and hammock camping."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advanced planning. Erin S. explains 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."
Weather considerations: Summer camping conditions can vary. Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground visitor Nicole D. warns "the lake looks nice, but the campground is very buggy. So many mosquitos it is hard to sit outside."
Noise levels: Areas with ORV trails can be louder. Nicole D. also points out that "Many ORV trails, but they are also very loud" at Ambrose Lake, while Ashleigh M. found Devoe Lake "got a little too rowdy for my tastes" during holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas ideal for children. At Grousehaven Campground, the lake has a "nice beach, park, and picnic area" with "extremely family friendly" facilities according to Jessica J., who adds that the campground was "always well maintained and had some of the cleanest bathrooms and showers."
Off-season visits: For quieter experiences with children, consider timing. "Great for our 'eastern' adventure up north... very pleasant. Quiet and lovely in late September," reports Erin S. about Devoe Lake, suggesting fewer crowds outside peak summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Au Sable River Primitive Camping provides chances to observe animals in their natural habitat. Don H. writes that "This is a beautiful place to camp" where "you are surrounded by forest and dunes." Another camper notes that during river kayaking, "we have seen Eagles and Cranes several times."
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Look for level spaces that accommodate your RV size. At Alcona Park, Ralph E. reports that "sites are clean and many have good space for larger campers" though "rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad."
RV-friendly amenities: Ogemaw Sport and Trail Center provides both water and electric hookups for RVs, particularly convenient for those bringing off-road vehicles. Deano M. calls it "Moto heaven" with "great place for Moto wonderful peaple and trail riding."
Dust conditions: Be aware of seasonal road conditions. According to Ralph E., at Alcona Park "roads can get extremely dusty when it's dry," which may affect RVs and equipment during extended stays.
Traveler
