Buttercup Campground
4.6111 reviewsNull
Buttercup Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
No fees are required for this site.
About this 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.
Historical SignificanceWhile Buttercup may not boast grand historical monuments, its significance lies in the timeless tradition of river travel and the generations of paddlers who have found respite along these banks.
Weather and SeasonsFrom 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.
ElevationThe campground rests at a gentle elevation that provides easy access to the river while offering comfortable, level camping spots among the trees.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by a tapestry of towering pines and vibrant hardwoods, Buttercup Campground immerses visitors in nature's theater. Early risers might spot white-tailed deer browsing at dawn, while evening brings the haunting calls of owls and the rustling of nocturnal creatures through the understory.
Geological RegionNestled within the renowned Au Sable National Scenic River Corridor, Buttercup sits at the heart of a landscape where ancient glaciers carved dramatic river valleys through forests of maple, oak, and pine. This protected corridor showcases Michigan's natural heritage, where crystal-clear waters wind through one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the Great Lakes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information available regarding specific accessibility features for disabled campers.
Sites SizeThe campground is small and consists of three drive-up campsites and one riverside site accessible via kayak, canoe, or tube.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a secluded camping experience, as it is small and not heavily populated.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early, lower river-facing sites prime locations.
Best CampsitesSite on the river, used exclusively for paddlers arriving by boat.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Camping prohibited except at designated campsites.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
There is no information provided regarding group camping facilities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree drive-up sites and one riverside site accessible via watercraft.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 - November 30
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed using forest guidelines.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is prohibited except at designated campsites.
Cancellation PolicyNull
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.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Au Sable River adjacent to the campground.Boating
Non-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 viewing
Campers may encounter local wildlife due to the campground's natural surroundings.Winter Activities
The campground is not maintained during the winter, with no plowed roads or operational toilet facilities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, or tubing are popular due to the campground's location by a scenic river.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each site includes a fire pit.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsTick infestation and poison ivy, especially near riverside.
Active alertsWinter closure warnings apply.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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. Address: 107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647. Phone: (989) 826-3252. Operating hours are Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. Closest hospital: null.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash or recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the river via marked stops.
Common complaintsTicks, poison ivy, limited facilities.
HostNull
Campground Map
Null
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.
Camper Reviews
4.6
11 reviews
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 11 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...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
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 11 reviewsPro 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 11 reviewsSeasonal 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...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The lower riverside site is often mentioned as a favorite for its proximity to the river and scenic views.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific reviews addressing pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025