Buttercup Campground

Star4.63
38 reviews
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Quick Facts

912 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

May 1 - November 30

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Huron-Manistee National Forests site

Official Website
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Buttercup Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(989) 826-3252Null
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What Campers Say

4.63

Top-Rated

Based on 38 reviews

31 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quiet

"User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere and suitability for river paddlers. Positive feedback focuses on its secluded nature, proximity to the river, and basic amenities. Some complaints include issues with ticks, poison ivy, and the condition of the kayak launch trail."

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Campground Map

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Buttercup Campground

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Driving directionsFrom Grayling - Travel east on M-72 for 30 miles. Turn left and travel north on M-72/M-33 for .5 miles. Turn right and travel east on McKinley Dr. Turn right and travel south on E. River Dr. for <.1 miles. Turn left and travel east on Reed Rd./FR 4836 for 1 mile. The entrance is located on the right.
Seasonal access road conditions apply. The site is not gated during the off-season, and parking lots are not plowed during winter months.
Nearby places
Grayling: 30 miles east
Nearby supplies
Closest canoe rental services located in Glennie, Hale, Mio, and Oscoda. Examples include Hinchman's Acres Resort and Au Sable River Kayaking Company LLC.

Best Time to Camp at Buttercup Campground

From spring through fall, Buttercup welcomes adventurers to its peaceful grounds. As winter approaches and snow blankets the forest, the campground enters its quiet season, resting undisturbed until the spring thaw brings paddlers back to the river.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Open May–Nov; users highlight warmer months for river paddling and visiting.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open through November; scenic fall colors and continued river access noted by visitors.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open beginning May 1; spring paddling possible though trails/launch may be muddy and pests appear.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed/unmaintained in winter; quiet season through snow months.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: May 1 - November 30
  • Current Alerts: Winter closure warnings apply.

About Buttercup Campground

Tucked away in Michigan's wilderness, Buttercup Campground offers an intimate retreat where the rhythmic sounds of paddle strokes and flowing water replace the noise of everyday life. This hidden gem serves as a beloved waypoint for river paddlers seeking solitude and authentic outdoor experiences along one of Michigan's most pristine waterways.
Buttercup Campground is primarily suited for primitive camping and serves as a convenient stop for river paddlers. The campground features three drive-up campsites and one riverside site accessible by watercraft.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Open 24 hours
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Camping prohibited except at designated campsites.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Buttercup Campground offers limited recreational activities primarily centered around its riverside location. It is ideal for river paddlers, picnicking, and fishing.
FishingFishing is permitted in the Au Sable River adjacent to the campground.
BoatingNon-motorized boating activities, such as kayaking and canoeing, are supported. The campground features a kayak launch, though user reviews note it can be muddy.
Wildlife viewingCampers may encounter local wildlife due to the campground's natural surroundings.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTick infestation and poison ivy, especially near riverside.
Active AlertsWinter closure warnings apply.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Buttercup Campground

Reviews

4.6
38 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Buttercup Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere and suitability for river paddlers. Positive feedback focuses on its secluded nature, proximity to the river, and basic amenities. Some complaints include issues with ticks, poison ivy, and the condition of the kayak launch trail.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the quiet, secluded environment with minimal crowds. The presence of a new vault toilet, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site is well-received. Easy access to the Au Sable...
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Based on 38 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include infestations of ticks and the presence of poison ivy. The kayak launch trail can be muddy. Some users note the lack of potable water as a limitation.
Based on 38 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend arriving early to secure the lower riverside site, which offers scenic views and proximity to the river. Campers are advised to prepare for ticks and poison ivy.
Based on 38 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open from May 1 to November 30, with users emphasizing its appeal during warmer months for river activities. Winter access is limited as the site is not maintained during the...
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Based on 38 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This place is amazing... not many people so that is a plus" - Melissa Brewer. "The kayak launch is a bit of a walk from the campsites, and the trail was muddy at times, but it opens up to a...
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Based on 38 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The lower riverside site is often mentioned as a favorite for its proximity to the river and scenic views.
Based on 38 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 38 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There are no specific reviews addressing pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 38 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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