How much does camping cost at Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Camping fees at Gabions Campground And Day Use range from $5-$15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Gabions Campground And Day Use first-come first-served or reservation?

Gabions Campground And Day Use 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 Gabions Campground And Day Use before I book?

Yes! Gabions Campground And Day Use has 20 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 Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Gabions Campground And Day Use is open Peak season dates are from May 1 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 Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Gabions Campground And Day Use does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Fire policies at Gabions Campground And Day Use: Information about fire policies is not provided.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Gabions Campground And Day Use have?

Gabions Campground And Day Use has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Pets are not allowed at Gabions Campground And Day Use. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Gabions Campground And Day Use offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Gabions Campground And Day Use?

Popular activities at Gabions Campground And Day Use include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Gabions Campground And Day Use

4.23

31 reviews

FR 4134, Au Sable National Scenic River, Alcona County, MI

Top 25% in MIFall

Featured in:Boating Camping Michigan

Quick Facts

869 ft

Price

$5 - $15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

869 ft

Price

$5 - $15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Gabions Campground And Day Use

$5.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping costs $10.00 per night for single sites. Day use fees are $5.00 per vehicle per day or $15.00 for a seven-day pass.

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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USFS

Provider

989-826-3252

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

FR 4134, Au Sable National Scenic River, Alcona County, MI

Gabions Campground And Day Use

FR 4134, Au Sable National Scenic River, Alcona County, MI

Nearby places

Grayling - 51 miles/approximately 1 hour

Nearby supplies

Groceries and camping supplies are available in Mio, Grayling, and Oscoda

canoe rental options are nearby in Glennie, Hale, Mio, and Oscoda.

Driving directionsFrom Grayling, travel east on M-72 for 30 miles. Turn right and go south on M-33 for 6 miles. Turn left and go east on County Rd. 604/Curtisville Rd. for 15.5 miles. Turn left on FR 4134. Road will terminate at the campground.

The access road to the campground is paved until FR 4134, which is likely unpaved. The site is not gated during the off-season, and roads are not plowed in winter.

Weather at Gabions Campground And Day Use

Best Time to Camp at Gabions Campground And Day Use

Fall delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run 50-65°F in early fall, cooling to 30s-40s by late October, with crisp nights in the 30s-40s. Leaf color peaks mid-September through mid-October along the Au Sable. Trout fishing stays strong as fish feed actively in cooler water. Summer reaches pleasant highs around 82°F for riverside activities. Winter brings heavy snow and cold, creating a quieter landscape for those prepared for it.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in MI

Fall described as delivering the best conditions with peak leaf color mid-Sept to mid-Oct.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are from May 1 to November 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round; Not maintained December 1 – April 30

About Gabions Campground And Day Use

Gabions Campground sits along the Au Sable National Scenic River near Grayling, where natural springs bubble up through limestone formations at the water's edge. The 15-site campground runs $5-15/night and provides access to the Shore-to-Shore Trail and river activities. Reviews mention noise from other campers and challenging kayak access due to steep terrain.

Gabions Campground is tailored for basic camping experiences, offering only tent and possibly primitive camping options. RV camping is available but with minimal amenities.

Historical Significance

The campground takes its name from the gabions. Rock-filled wire baskets. That protect the Au Sable's banks from erosion. These structures represent early conservation efforts along one of Michigan's most ecologically significant river corridors.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs run 50-65°F in early fall, cooling to 30s-40s by late October, with crisp nights in the 30s-40s. Leaf color peaks mid-September through mid-October along the Au Sable. Trout fishing stays strong as fish feed actively in cooler water. Summer reaches pleasant highs around 82°F for riverside activities. Winter brings heavy snow and cold, creating a quieter landscape for those prepared for it.

ElevationSpecific elevation details for this riverside campground are not currently available.

Natural Features and SceneryNatural springs emerge through ancient limestone at the river's edge, creating crystal-clear pools. The campground's namesake gabions. Rock-filled wire baskets. Stabilize the riverbank and create habitat where waterfowl gather. At 869 feet elevation within the Au Sable corridor, the setting combines flowing water, spring-fed pools, and protected shoreline. Expect mosquitoes and ticks, especially in warmer months.

Geological RegionSituated within the renowned Au Sable National Scenic River corridor, Gabions Campground showcases Michigan's fascinating geological heritage. Natural springs bubble up through ancient limestone formations, creating crystal-clear pools at the river's edge. The campground's namesake gabions—innovative rock-filled wire baskets—work in harmony with these natural features to preserve the riverbank's integrity. This unique combination of natural springs and human ingenuity creates a geological showcase where visitors can witness both the power of flowing water and successful conservation practices in action.

Scenic ViewsThe campground provides scenic views of the Au Sable River and surrounding natural springs. Picnicking areas offer riverbank vistas.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo accommodations such as lodges or cabins are available at this site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Open 24 hours

Check-out

Open 24 hours

Stay Limit

Information about the maximum number of consecutive nights allowed is not provided.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Information about the number of guests allowed per site is not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground holds 15 sites with parking for 15 vehicles. Reviews don't describe spacing or loop structure, though the rustic setup and steep terrain near the kayak access suggest uneven ground in places.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required for individual or small groups under 74 people; permits are required for groups of 75+ or commercial use.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable for walk-up visitors. The campground is not gated during the off-season but is not maintained in winter.

Cancellation PolicyInformation about the cancellation policy is not provided.

Site SizeThe size of campsites is not described in the provided materials.

PrivacyPrivacy levels at the campsites are not addressed in the information available.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesVisitors seeking privacy or a scenic river view might prefer sites near the riverbank.

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is ideal for activities such as hiking, fishing, non-motorized boating, and picnicking. The Shore-to-Shore Trail nearby provides hiking opportunities, and the Au Sable River supports fishing and boating activities.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTicks and mosquitoes are prominent; visitors are advised to use insect repellent. The trail is overgrown in sections, making hiking challenging.

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

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyInformation about fire policies is not provided.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply. Complaints of noise, loud music, and disruptive behavior suggest enforcement challenges.

Emergency ServicesMio Ranger Station - Address: 107 McKinley Road, Mio, MI 48647. Phone: (989) 826-3252. Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed on federal holidays).

Trash & RecyclingNo details are provided about trash or recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the Au Sable River and features natural springs.

Camp HostInformation about campground hosts is not provided.

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

4.2

31 reviews

Satisfactory

Gabions Campground And Day Use is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reveal a mix of experiences at Gabions Campground. Some appreciate it as a peaceful retreat with great views, while others express concerns about noise issues. The campground is frequented by both day visitors and overnight campers.

Review Summaries

Based on 31 reviews

What Campers Love

"Love this place. Favorite campsite in the Huron National Forest." Visitors enjoy the rustic setup and proximity to natural attractions such as the Shore-to-Shore Trail and Au Sable River.

Based on 31 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise complaints are common, with one user mentioning, "Don't camp here unless you want to deal with a bunch of crazy drunks who blare obnoxious metal music all night long." Other concerns include...

Based on 31 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Be prepared with bug spray due to the presence of ticks and other insects. Day-use visitors should plan to pay the $5 fee and consider the limited parking availability.

Based on 31 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular for outdoor activities but come with challenges like insects. In colder months, trails may become overgrown, and the site is not maintained during winter.

Based on 31 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Camped here every year for 40 years now," "Stopped here for lunch during a kayaking trip. The kayak access area is less ideal than some others along this part of the Au Sable."

Based on 31 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.

Based on 31 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No user reviews specifically discuss pet policies or experiences.

Based on 31 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Fall paddlers and trout anglers who want cheap access to the Au Sable corridor. Leaf color peaks mid-September through mid-October, fishing picks up in cooler water, and at $10/night it's hard to argue with the price if you hit a quiet crowd.

Skip if

No potable water on-site and reviews describe genuine noise problems after dark, loud music included. Kayakers also have to haul boats up a steep hill to secure them, which gets old fast if you're running the river daily.

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