Gabions Campground And Day Use
04 reviewsFR 4134, Au Sable National Scenic River, Alcona County, MI
Gabions Campground And Day Use
$5.00 - $15.00 / 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 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.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Au Sable National Scenic River near Grayling, Michigan, Gabions Campground beckons those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This rustic retreat grants visitors exclusive access to crystal-clear natural springs and serves as a gateway to the legendary Shore-to-Shore Trail network. While the campground maintains a back-to-basics approach with limited amenities, its untouched beauty and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities create an unforgettable escape. Adventure seekers can explore miles of scenic hiking trails, though equestrian camping is not permitted, preserving the peaceful atmosphere that makes this riverside sanctuary so special.
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 SignificanceThe campground takes its name from the historic gabions—ingenious rock-filled wire baskets that have protected the Au Sable's banks for generations. These enduring structures stand as monuments to early conservation efforts, silently guarding against erosion while telling the story of humanity's evolving relationship with this treasured waterway. As part of the Au Sable National Scenic River system, the campground sits within one of Michigan's most ecologically significant corridors, where recreational heritage meets environmental stewardship in perfect harmony.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Michigan's north woods at Gabions Campground. Winter's embrace holds firm through the early season (weeks 1-15), blanketing the landscape in pristine snow and creating a wonderland for cold-weather enthusiasts. As spring unfolds into summer (weeks 20-30), the campground awakens with warmth, reaching pleasant highs of 82°F perfect for riverside relaxation and trail exploration. Each season paints the Au Sable corridor in new colors, from winter's crystalline beauty to summer's verdant splendor.
ElevationSpecific elevation details for this riverside campground are not currently available.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Au Sable River corridor reveals nature's artistry at every turn, from bubbling natural springs that emerge mysteriously at the water's edge to the historic gabions that blend seamlessly into the riverbank landscape. These rock-filled sentinels create unique habitats where waterfowl gather and wildlife thrives. The interplay of flowing water, ancient springs, and protected shoreline creates a living gallery where visitors become part of the ecosystem, encouraged to observe, respect, and cherish the delicate balance of this scenic wonderland.
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeThe size of campsites is not described in the provided materials.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at the campsites are not addressed in the information available.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking privacy or a scenic river view might prefer sites near the riverbank.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers are highlighted as the best.
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.
Groups
No information is available about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes 15 sites with parking for up to 15 vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to November 30 annually.
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.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
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
The Shore-to-Shore Trail passes near the campground, offering day hikes and backpacking opportunities. However, user reviews note that parts of the trail are overgrown, with tick presence and small downed limbs, requiring preparation.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Au Sable River. Specific details about the types of fish or fishing facilities are not provided.Boating
Boating opportunities are available for non-motorized watercraft on the Au Sable River. However, user reviews mention that the kayak access area is less ideal, as boats need to be dragged up a hill to secure them.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers opportunities for wildlife and waterfowl viewing. Visitors are encouraged to observe from a distance and respect the natural habitat.Winter Activities
This site is not maintained in the winter, and access roads and parking lots are not plowed, limiting winter activities.Water Sports
The site supports non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Information about fire policies is not provided.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply. Complaints of noise, loud music, and disruptive behavior suggest enforcement challenges.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and mosquitoes are prominent; visitors are advised to use insect repellent. The trail is overgrown in sections, making hiking challenging.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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 - Address: 107 McKinley Road, Mio, MI 48647. Phone: (989) 826-3252. Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are from May 1 to November 30.
Trash and recyclingNo details are provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Au Sable River and features natural springs.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues like noisy, disruptive campers playing loud music at night and challenging kayak access due to steep hills. Mosquitoes and ticks are also frequently mentioned.
HostInformation about campground hosts is not provided.
Campground Map
FR 4134, Au Sable National Scenic River, Alcona County, MI
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.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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Gabions Campground And Day Use has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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 4 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 4 reviewsCommon 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 4 reviewsShow more
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 4 reviewsSeasonal 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 4 reviewsCamper 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 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically discuss pet policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025