190 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near West Branch, Michigan range from rustic state forest settings to developed private facilities with amenities. Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground provides spacious lakefront and wooded sites with access to ORV trails, while Rifle River Recreation Area contains multiple camping areas including Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, Spruce Rustic Campground, and Grousehaven Campground. The region offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals at locations like Outdoor Adventures Lake of the North Resort, Beaver Trail Campground, and River View Campground & Canoe Livery.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through October. Several facilities close completely during winter months, though Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground and Beaver Trail Campground remain open year-round. A visitor noted, "We were greeted at the gate by an extremely helpful and knowledgeable gentleman. He provided good directions, and helped us with our Rec Pass." Reservation requirements vary significantly between locations, with state forest campgrounds typically operating on a first-come, first-served basis while private campgrounds and modern sites within recreation areas often require advance booking. Cell service can be limited in more remote camping areas, and campers should prepare for potential mosquito activity, especially near lakes and rivers.
The waterfront camping options receive particularly strong feedback from visitors, with several campgrounds offering direct lake or river access. Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground earns consistently high ratings for its lake views and spacious sites. "The sites are large and level. Although only one of the sites has a river view this campground is ideal for trout anglers," noted one Spruce Rustic Campground visitor. Recreation opportunities abound throughout the region, with multiple campgrounds providing boat launches, fishing access, and connections to trail systems. Many campsites feature adequate spacing and tree cover for privacy, particularly at the rustic state forest and recreation area campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, beaver, various birds, and occasionally loons calling across the lakes.
"Nice rustic campground located just north of west branch. No showers, privy is is decent shape. Not the worst not the best. Several lake front sites to choose from with excellent views."
"There are a few sites on the lake and a boat launch. Sites have tables, pits and trees. They are also well separated with trees. Pretty easy access to the campground and the place was clean."
"This here is one of my favorite campgrounds in Michigan. The facilities are clean and kept up. All access to trails, lakes and the river are close and easy to get to."
"Great location and our site had a nice shortcut through the woods that exited by the lake and bathrooms."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"There is a cluster of quiet sites, a track of sites tucked away in some pines, and then the modern sites. The campground itself is large and has a couple lakes to go fishing in."
"Lots of hiking trails, bike trails. Lots of lakes, great beach areas!"
"Right on Grousehaven lake with a small beach and playground and a large open grassy area for kids and dogs to to run."
"But the beach was nice as were the trails. Once in the camp itself, we loved how much better it was than Tawas. It's more spread out and I didn't feel like people were staring at me."
from $35 - $40 / night
Check Availability"We did the 6hr tubing trip, left at 11am and got back to the campground around 4:30. Theres more than enough locations along the tubing trip to stop and eat off to the side."
"It sits along the Rifle River next to Rifle River Campground and Whites Campground. The campground is huge and offers so much!"
"I wish I would have picked a different spot as I was right next to the bathroom but it was fine. Plenty of fire wood around the collect with access to trials and the river."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Beaver Trail Campground is new and bookable to the Dyrt. Check them out and share your trip on the Dyrt!"
from $30 - $66 / night
Check Availability"Great place for Moto wonderful peaple and trail riding and kid track we’re awsome"
from $30 / night
Check Availability
ScoutEvidently we are too loud for all the other guests at 8:00 at night so the park rangers had to come up and quiet us down three times and we barely have the radio even up where we could hear it in our campsite they take care of the whine bags there that's for sure
ScoutIf you're looking for a family oriented campground, look no further. From the park to play in for the kids and the heated pool, to the large fields and trails, you'll find entertainment to fill your days. Visit the wishing tree or porcupine tree. Swing on your trail adventure. The owners are delightful.
ScoutStandard camping affair. Many of the spots are sloped, so be careful when choosing your spot.
GuideThis was our overall third visit in the last 4 years to this campground. The last visit was 2 years ago and we had friends visit and do the 6hr tubing ride with us and that ultimately got them into camping and willing to spend the weekend with us at this campground.
We've always been in the "rustic" area more towards the "adult/party" side of the campground, but not to scare anyone there was NOT an over abundance of loud music, or shenanigans. Everyone was pretty calmed down by 11-12.
Some of the upgrades from years past included shelving, hooks, small benches in the public shower areas (don't have to pay for shower access) water was always warm and the showers were always clean.
The store contained anything you'd need if you forget something at home, including water shoes for tubing, firewood, ice, etc.
We did the 6hr tubing trip, left at 11am and got back to the campground around 4:30. Theres more than enough locations along the tubing trip to stop and eat off to the side. The river is very shallow at some points, id say ankle deep and deep at some points, maybe 8+ ft in spots, but most of the time it was knee deep.
The staff is great, they drive around periodically and pick up trash if you leave it in bags along the driving paths, theres a security team at all hours, etc.
Cell service isn't the best, however they do offer wifi ($20 for multiple devices/week). The wifi would go in/out at times though
Overall this is one of my favorite campsites and will return next year.
ScoutThis was our first camping trip as a family and our son choked made it a memorable one. He choked on a breadstick, threw it up and had piece stuck in his throat. The park ranger ( female, maybe 5'5 light brown hair, white. Because I cant remember her name) was amazing. She was calm, asked my son questions to help distract him and her overall kindness in her all was great. The rest of the team in there was amazing as well. Next day she stopped by to see how he was doing! I loved that. The camp ground itself it very nice, the bathrooms and showers were really clean. For sure worth the stay!
GuideStayed a few nights here. Great site right in the river. Rented tubes and floated the river down to our campsite. All of the amenities. Definitely a busy place on weekends but a little calmer through the week.
ScoutTons of fishing spots and trails around to ride. We come every summer with kids and they love to fish and head into town and find things to do. Its a rustic campground so no hookup. You do have to scan a code when arriving or call the state park office to get a permit before you set up! This was new to us this year but wasnt too hard to get done! We have a 30 ft 5th wheel and we fit beautifully on site 29. Most sites seem to have a small fishing access along the water and some sort of view of the water.
ScoutThis dispersed camping free no hookups no water there are porta potties out here can't say what condition they are in I didn't look I'm boondocking in an 26 ft RV it's very pretty area lots of camping spots big enough for an RV I would say at least 45 ft roads to get in here are dirt the road actually leading down to the camp is not to bad not very wide I have a 26 ft class C RV and just as you get to the camp there is a large Sandy area I wouldn't come down here after a downpour there's camping spots in the woods, there's also an open area where you can get lots of Sunshine if you got solar. It's about 9- 10 miles East of Mio, Michigan. On Google Maps they refer to as a horse camp.
ScoutMaintained to perfection, great camping, everything you could ask for. All facilities are available and clean. The owners of the site are always happy to help and are a pleasure. Fantastic sites with full hookups, river, pond, playground and forest
Camping spots near West Branch, Michigan feature diverse terrain from sandy lakeshores to wooded hills within the AuSable State Forest. The area sits at approximately 1,050 feet elevation with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-82°F. Mosquito activity increases near lakes and rivers during June and early July when evening temperatures remain above 50°F.
Water activities on non-motorized lakes: Grousehaven Campground offers crystal-clear water for paddling sports. "The lake is absolutely gorgeous and is paddle only, no motors of any kind. The water was warmish and crystal clear," notes Dennis B., who adds this is "definitely our new family go-to when we need a weekend away!"
Tubing adventures: River View Campground & Canoe Livery provides easy access to river floating. "Nothing like grabbing a tube a flowing down the river with friends," says Megan W. The campground offers tube rentals with shuttle service to drop-off points upstream.
Wildlife observation: Several camping areas provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Ambrose Lake, one camper mentioned, "I've also woken up to families of deer feeding in the sites next to me more than once." Hiking trails throughout the recreation areas offer additional wildlife viewing chances.
Rock hunting: For those interested in geology, some waterways contain interesting specimens. One visitor to Rifle River noted, "We found amazing flowers blooming like yellow and pink lady slippers. I even found Agates, fossils if you're a rock hunter."
Spacious, private sites: Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground receives high marks for site layout. Camper Corey O. notes, "Several lake front sites to choose from with excellent views. There is a public boat launch here." Another visitor, Kelly G., appreciated "the spacious lot sizes and the ones right on the lake are perfect."
Direct trail access: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems for hiking, biking, and ORV use. Teena J. described Ambrose Lake as having "beautiful sites with private, wooded locations or sunset, lake views. Several ATV trails with direct access to sites!"
Clean facilities: Spruce Rustic Campground maintains well-kept grounds despite being rustic. Jason N. called it "small, rustic, remote, clean and quiet" with "large and level campsites that are well spaced."
Lakes and ponds for fishing: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities. One visitor to Beaver Trail noted its "stocked fishing pond" while Spruce Rustic Campground was described as "ideal for trout anglers" with "access point to Gamble Creek between sites 171 and 173."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the West Branch area operate from May through October with limited winter options. Ogemaw County Park's West Branch RV Park operates from "April 1 to October 24" while River View Campground runs from "May 1 to October 15."
Reservation systems vary: Devoe Lake Rustic Campground requires planning ahead. As Erin S. explains, "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."
Bug activity: Insects can be prevalent, especially in wooded areas. One camper at Ambrose Lake reported, "The lake looks nice, but the campground is very buggy. So many mosquitos it is hard to sit outside."
Water quality concerns: While popular for recreation, not all water bodies are pristine. Regarding Rifle River, one visitor cautioned, "The water is not clean however, and if you find yourself floating down and feel the liquid courage kicking in telling you to climb a 100ft rock wall—DON'T."
Choose family-focused areas: Outdoor Adventures Lake of the North Resort offers comprehensive amenities. "This camp ground has everything you need here and more. From activities, pool, a small store, boat rental and more," reports Santana G.
Look for shallow swimming spots: Some lakes have designated family swimming areas. At Grousehaven, Dennis B. appreciated that "the water was warmish and crystal clear, my 2.5 y/o daughter loved playing at the beach and the shallow swimming area."
Consider noise levels: Campgrounds have different atmospheres. Phil M. noted at River View that "The Group camping side is considered the 'Adult/Party' area" while "We didn't stay in the Family area it looked very nice."
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature play areas. River View offers "numerous playground areas, volleyball, horseshoes, and even an arcade area" according to a recent visitor.
Site leveling challenges: Beaver Trail Campground provides level spots for RVs, but many campgrounds in the area require leveling equipment. At Spruce Rustic, Jason N. mentioned getting "my 20' trailer back there no problem" due to "large and level campsites."
Limited hookups at rustic sites: Many state forest and recreation area campgrounds offer no or limited hookups. Check amenities carefully as most rustic sites have vault toilets rather than modern facilities.
Campground navigation: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. At Devoe Lake, one camper reported their site "had a nice shortcut through the woods that exited by the lake and bathrooms," offering easier access than driving.
Quick overnight options: For those traveling through the area, Gary D. found Ogemaw County Park West Branch RV Park ideal: "Needed a tent sight for 3 pup tents motorcycle camping. Nice quiet secluded campground in the woods. Nice clean baths and showers. $25 for tent $35 RVs pull threw."
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available near West Branch, MI?
The West Branch area offers diverse camping options. Mud Lake State Forest Campground provides a rustic experience with 8 non-reservable sites, some with lake views and direct water access. For RV campers, Northern Bear Paw RV Park offers comfortable sites with a welcoming atmosphere. Other nearby options include Outdoor Adventures Lake of the North Resort, Beaver Trail Campground, and Ogemaw Sport and Trail Center. Most campgrounds in this region provide access to water recreation, hiking trails, and are within a short drive of West Branch.
Are there group camping facilities available in West Branch, MI?
Several campgrounds near West Branch offer group camping options. Ogemaw County Park West Branch RV Park provides reservable spaces suitable for group gatherings with water and toilet facilities. For groups seeking more rustic experiences, Rifle River Recreation Area has multiple campgrounds including Devoe Lake, which offers clean facilities with easy access to trails, lakes, and the river—ideal for family or group outings. Many sites in the area can accommodate multiple tents or RVs, but it's advisable to call ahead for specific group camping arrangements and availability.
How far is Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground from West Branch?
Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground is located approximately 10 miles north of West Branch, making it a convenient option for campers visiting the area. This rustic campground offers lakefront sites with excellent views and access to a public boat launch. The campground also features an ORV trailhead, making it popular with off-road enthusiasts. The short distance from town means campers can easily access supplies and amenities in West Branch while enjoying the natural setting of this forest campground.
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