How much does camping cost at Ausable River Camping?

Camping fees at Ausable River Camping are $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Ausable River Camping first-come first-served or reservation?

Ausable River Camping accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Ausable River Camping before I book?

Yes! Ausable River Camping has 27 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Ausable River Camping?

Ausable River Camping is open January 01 to November 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Ausable River Camping?

Ausable River Camping does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Ausable River Camping have?

Ausable River Camping has 102 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Ausable River Camping?

Yes, pets are allowed at Ausable River Camping. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Ausable River Camping?

Ausable River Camping offers: Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Ausable River Camping?

Popular activities at Ausable River Camping include Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Ausable River Camping

Q: Can I have a campfire at Ausable River Camping?

Fire policies at Ausable River Camping: • Be careful with fire. Do NOT leave hot campfires unattended. Make sure your ashes are cool to the touch before you leave.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.47

658 reviews

5761 NORTH SKEEL AVENUE, OSCODA, MI 48750

Top 8% in MIFall

CReport Card

Scenic Views

Quick Facts

948 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

102 campsites

Season

Open season: April 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on USDA Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

948 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

102 campsites

Season

Open season: April 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on USDA Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Ausable River Camping

$10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

BOAT IN: $10.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $10.00; WALK TO: $10.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

989-362-8961

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

5761 NORTH SKEEL AVENUE, OSCODA, MI 48750

Ausable River Camping

5761 NORTH SKEEL AVENUE, OSCODA, MI 48750

Nearby places

Glennie: 7 miles northwest

Oscoda: 4 miles west.

Weather at Ausable River Camping

Current alerts(14)

Flash floods are expected to impact outdoor activities at our location. Heed warnings and be aware of areas that are likely to flood. Seek higher ground and monitor local weather forecasts until the danger has passed.
Your permit is subject to forfeit and a violation notice may be issued for failing to follow these rules
• All camping equipment must be set up within 25 feet of the numbered campsite marker.
• Campsites must be occupied within 24 hours of the start of your reservation. Your site will be forfeit unless the Forest Service has been contacted and your late arrival has been approved.

Best Time to Camp at Ausable River Camping

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cooler, stable weather and spectacular color on the AuSable's bluffs and river corridor — expect daytime highs generally in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (cooler in October) and crisp nights dipping to near freezing by late October. Paddle and fish in calm, clear water with far fewer bugs than summer; hiking and bluff-viewing are at their most photogenic. Weekdays and later-season weekends are noticeably quieter than midsummer, but plan ahead for prime leaf-peeping Peak months: October, September, November Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 8% in MI

Described as best season: stable weather, spectacular fall color along river bluffs and fewer crowds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: April 15 to November 30; Peak reservable season: June 21 to November 30.

About Ausable River Camping

Ausable River Camping sits along the AuSable River in Huron-Manistee National Forests near Oscoda, Michigan. This USDA Forest Service campground offers primitive and tent camping on secluded sites with river views and direct access to fishing and boating. Fall brings spectacular color along the river corridor and bluffs, with fewer crowds and stable weather for paddling and wildlife viewing.

AuSable River Camping features primitive, tent, and boat-in camping options across its 102 designated sites.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of cooler, stable weather and spectacular color on the AuSable's bluffs and river corridor — expect daytime highs generally in the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (cooler in October) and crisp nights dipping to near freezing by late October. Paddle and fish in calm, clear water with far fewer bugs than summer; hiking and bluff-viewing are at their most photogenic. Weekdays and later-season weekends are noticeably quieter than midsummer, but plan ahead for prime leaf-peeping Peak months: October, September, November Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation948 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 948 feet elevation along the AuSable River's 138-mile route to Lake Huron. Bluffs rise 5 to 300 feet above the water, carved over millions of years into steep sandy slopes covered in pine and hardwood. The terrain varies from gentle riverside meadows to dramatic overlooks. Reviews mention river views, dense forest cover, and wildlife sightings. The sandy soil and thick canopy create natural privacy barriers at many sites, though spacing is inconsistent.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no lodge-style accommodation available at AuSable River Camping.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational opportunities include Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center and historical tours. "Must see Lumberman’s Monument."

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights during any 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than 10 people per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are minimal due to the rustic nature of the campground. Steep trails to water and uneven terrain may be challenging for some campers.

Site SizeSites range from small and compact to large and spacious, accommodating both single-family campers and larger groups.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary significantly between sites. Some are secluded with natural barriers, while others are near common trails or water access points.

Total Campsites102 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with easier access to the river for fishing or canoeing, such as 004D. For privacy and seclusion, site 082D is recommended.

Best CampsitesSite 004D gets praise for space, river proximity, and privacy. Site 082D offers river views and clear skies for stargazing. Sites vary widely in size and seclusion. Some sit near trails or water access points with less separation from neighbors.

Need help booking Ausable River Camping?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

All sites are primitive with no drinking water, toilets or trash removal. Campers are expected to bring plenty of water, portable toilets and garbage bags. Parking aprons are dirt or gravel.

Fire rings

Firewood available

I manage this campground

Things to do at Ausable River Camping

AuSable River Camping offers diverse activities including fishing, canoeing, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, hiking, and stargazing. The area is rich in natural beauty, featuring bluffs, scenic overlooks, and proximity to River Road National Scenic Byway.

Boating4.5/5Top 1% in Michigan

Water Sports4.5/5Top 4% in Michigan

AuSable River paddling is a key activity; canoe rentals nearby and boat‑in campsites support paddling.

Fishing4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Beach activities4.0/5

Several sites have sandy access points ideal for kayaking, sunbathing and swimming.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not provided. Campers are encouraged to bring portable toilets or practice soil incorporation for human waste disposal.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire Policy• Be careful with fire. Do NOT leave hot campfires unattended. Make sure your ashes are cool to the touch before you leave.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers must pack out all waste and leave campsites clean for the next visitors.

Cell CoverageCell phone service availability is inconsistent. Some campers noted Verizon service in certain areas, while others highlighted complete lack of coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

658 reviews

Recommended

Ausable River Camping is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Mixed reviews highlight the beauty and rustic appeal of the AuSable River Camping but also critique its lack of maintenance and occasional overcrowding.

Review Summaries

Based on 658 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 658 reviews.

Site 061WLoved
Site 061W is secluded with plenty of space for multiple tents.
Site 082DIssues noted
Site 082D offers amazing views but difficult river access.

What Campers Love

"Beautiful secluded sites..." "Amazing views of the river, forest, and wildlife..." "Quiet and peaceful camping with stargazing."

Based on 658 reviews

Common Concerns

"Steep trails to water, challenging for some campers." "Trash left by previous visitors." "Lack of clear signage and missing site markers."

Based on 658 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Bring a wagon for easier transport." "Pack bug spray and firewood." "Visit Lumberman's Monument for hiking and historical insights."

Based on 658 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are especially popular for their cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and scenic foliage. "Fall colors were beautiful and the weather was perfect."

Based on 658 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Can't wait to visit again soon.” "The river is beautiful and the nights are peaceful." "Pack out your trash; don't ruin it for others."

Based on 658 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited due to steep trails and uneven terrain. "Steps leading to the river are very dangerous."

Based on 658 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Most sites are pet-friendly. "Dogs can become wild animals again!"

Based on 658 reviews

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Ausable River Camping

$10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

BOAT IN: $10.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $10.00; WALK TO: $10.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.