Au Sable Loop Campground And Day Use Area
4.6311 reviews107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647
Au Sable Loop Campground And Day Use Area
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Camping fee is $10 per night for single sites.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the enchanting Huron-Manistee National Forests, Au Sable Loop Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic rustic camping experience. Here, towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral overhead while the legendary Au Sable River winds its way through the landscape just moments away. Whether you're paddling silently through morning mist, casting a line into pristine waters, or simply sitting still as deer emerge from the forest shadows, this campground serves as your gateway to Michigan's untamed wilderness.
The Au Sable Loop Campground caters primarily to rustic campers. Tent camping is prominent, and reviewers frequently mentioned the campground's primitive nature.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite rests within the storied Au Sable National Scenic River Corridor, a designation that speaks to both its breathtaking beauty and its vital role in Michigan's natural heritage. This protected waterway has shaped the region's ecology and recreation for generations, serving as a living testament to the delicate balance between preservation and public enjoyment.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through November, Au Sable Loop transforms with the seasons like a living canvas. Spring arrives with a whisper of warmth, though frost may still kiss the morning grass. Summer unfolds in perfect comfort, with moderate temperatures and gentle breezes filtering through the canopy—ideal for long days of exploration. As autumn approaches, the hardwoods burst into a symphony of gold and crimson, though wise campers pack extra layers for those crisp nights when temperatures dip toward freezing.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where three distinct ecosystems converge in perfect harmony. The campground's mixed hardwood forest provides a verdant backdrop, its canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Open meadows burst with wildflowers and offer glimpses of soaring raptors, while the nearby river corridor creates a ribbon of life where water meets land. This diverse tapestry of habitats ensures every walk reveals something new—from the drumming of woodpeckers to the splash of river otters at play.
Geological RegionSituated within the renowned Au Sable National Scenic River Corridor, the campground occupies a fascinating transition zone where ancient hardwood forests gradually give way to dynamic river ecosystems. This unique positioning offers campers a front-row seat to observe how water has sculpted the landscape over millennia, creating the diverse habitats that make this region a natural treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeUser reviews highlight varying site sizes, with Christy M noting her site was huge and relaxing.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; a review by Victoria Rogers pointed out the secluded nature of the campground, whereas Wendy Argyle's review mentioned troubling interactions with neighboring campers.
Total Campsites74 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 4 during heavy rain; site 5 is highly rated for its size and quietness.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest site 5 is large and quiet. Site 4 has challenges with flooding during rain.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Unspecified in provided sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unspecified in provided sources.
Groups
No group camping details were mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutUnspecified in provided sources.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 - November 30.
Reservation PlatformsUnspecified in provided sources.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnspecified in provided sources.
Cancellation PolicyUnspecified in provided sources.
Amenities available
Potable water
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Au Sable Loop Campground offers a range of rustic outdoor activities. Non-motorized boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing are among the main attractions, in addition to hunting opportunities.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby river/stream. No specific details on fish types or fishing quality were provided.Swimming
Joy Frederick confirmed the availability of swimming areas at the campground, although safety or facilities were not elaborated upon.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities are supported, per the authoritative source under recreation opportunities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a key activity at this campground, as highlighted in the authoritative introduction to the site.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the site is not maintained during that season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available, with rental options provided nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Unspecified in provided sources.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply, though unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are a notable concern during setup. Heavy rains can flood site 4. Drug-related activities have been reported.
Active alertsNo current alerts specified in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mio Ranger Station and District (107 McKinley Rd Mio, MI 48647, Phone: (989) 826-3252).
Good to know
Peak season datesUnspecified in provided sources.
Trash and recyclingReviewers like William DePaepe noted trash containers on-site, providing clues about basic waste disposal facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Au Sable River, suitable for fishing and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsRestrooms lacking toilet paper (user reviews); tick issues during tent setup; vault toilets only.
HostUnspecified in provided sources.
Campground Map
107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647
Driving directionsFrom Grayling: Travel east on M-72 for 30 miles. Turn left and go north on M-72/M-33 for 0.5 miles. Turn right and go east on McKinley Rd. for 3 miles. Turn right and follow the signs to the site.
Access road is unpaved. Seasonal closures affect maintenance during winter (no snow plowing).Nearby places
Grayling (30 miles, approximately 35 minutes by car), Mio (approximately 3 miles, 6 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Mio for groceries and essentials
Oscoda for canoe rentals (e.g., Au Sable River Kayaking Company LLC).
Camper Reviews
4.6
11 reviews
Au Sable Loop Campground And Day Use Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights its peacefulness, beautiful setting, and opportunities for rustic camping, while negative aspects include the lack of showers and occasional problematic neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the campground for its serenity, scenic beauty, and large camping sites. Multiple reviewers, including Christy M and Victoria Rogers, described the area as peaceful and relaxing.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints most commonly revolved around the lack of amenities, such as showers and toilet paper, and negative interactions with neighbors. Wendy Argyle described a disturbing experience involving...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
William DePaepe advised avoiding campsite #4 during heavy rain due to flooding issues and noted the water pump is located behind the trash containers. Bryan Collins recommended bringing your own...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground operates from May 1 to November 30, with no maintenance during the off-season. User reviews suggest ticks are an issue in summer, while rain can cause flooding in certain campsites.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"My first time here and it was perfect!! It was quiet, our site was huge and just very relaxing!!" - Christy M
"Nice rustic camping. Well maintained grounds." - Bryan Collins
"Avoid campsite 4 if...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #4 experiences flooding during heavy rain, as noted by William DePaepe. Wendy Argyle recommended avoiding neighbors who may engage in problematic activities.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility features or experiences for campers with disabilities.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, as confirmed by authoritative sources, but specific user feedback about pet experiences was not provided.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025