Meadow Springs Campground
03 reviews107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647
Meadow Springs 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
Hidden within a serene red pine plantation along the legendary Au Sable River, Meadow Springs Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for adventurous souls. This secluded, rustic retreat rewards those willing to leave their vehicles behind at the gate and venture on foot into nature's embrace. Beloved by paddlers navigating the pristine waters of the Au Sable, this hike-in sanctuary provides the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude and riverside serenity far from the crowds.
Meadow Springs Campground is a primitive, hike-in site primarily used by paddlers. No motorized access is allowed, and the site is rustic with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceWhile Meadow Springs may not boast ancient artifacts or historic landmarks, its story is written in the timeless flow of the Au Sable River and the whispers of wind through towering pines. This quiet corner of Michigan's wilderness continues a tradition of simple, respectful communion with nature that has drawn outdoor enthusiasts for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette as the seasons transform this riverside haven. Late spring brings wildflowers and warming days perfect for riverside relaxation, while early fall paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons under crystal-clear skies. Summer offers long, sun-drenched days ideal for paddling adventures, though savvy campers favor the moderate temperatures and fewer insects of shoulder seasons. Winter transforms the pines into a snow-draped wonderland for the truly intrepid.
ElevationNestled gently along the river corridor, the campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access to the water while remaining safely above flood levels. The subtle topography creates intimate camping spots sheltered by the surrounding forest.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering red pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their evergreen canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Au Sable River flows past with a gentle murmur, its clear waters reflecting the sky and inviting quiet contemplation. Wildlife abounds in this protected corridor – watch for white-tailed deer at dawn, listen for the haunting call of barred owls at dusk, and catch glimpses of beavers working along the riverbanks. The understory bursts with seasonal wildflowers and ferns, creating an ever-changing tapestry of color and texture.
Geological RegionSituated within the renowned Au Sable National Scenic River Corridor, Meadow Springs occupies a fascinating ecological niche where managed red pine plantation meets wild river ecosystem. This unique convergence creates diverse habitats supporting an impressive array of plant and animal life, while the sandy soils tell the ancient story of glacial deposits that shaped Michigan's distinctive landscape thousands of years ago.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground is noted to be rustic and primarily used by paddlers, but specific details about site sizes are not provided.
Sites PrivacyNo details about the level of privacy at campsites are mentioned.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the river for better views; site proximity to water makes it ideal for paddlers.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers mentioned in the reviews or authoritative content.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours.
Check-out
Open 24 hours.
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping prohibited outside designated sites.
Groups
No group-specific camping information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRustic hike-in campground, no loops or demarcated sections mentioned.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 - November 30
Reservation PlatformsNo online reservation site mentioned; contact Mio Ranger Station for inquiries.
Walk-in AvailabilitySite primarily serves river paddlers, suggesting informal walk-up access; no specifics on number of sites or fill patterns.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific cancellation policy mentioned.
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers opportunities for non-motorized boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Being situated along the Au Sable River enhances its appeal for paddlers and anglers.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the Au Sable River, which is part of the campground's natural setting.Boating
The site is primarily used by river paddlers, indicating that non-motorized boating is a central activity.Wildlife viewing
Located on the edge of a red pine plantation, the site offers opportunities to observe various wildlife species.Winter Activities
The site is not maintained during the winter, and access roads are not plowed.Water Sports
Non-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking is supported by the site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policy mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours universally apply.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water available; users must bring their own. Wildlife encounters are possible. No motorized access; users must plan for hike-in.
Active alertsSite is not maintained in winter; access road and parking lot are not plowed, and no toilet facilities are available during this period.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.6 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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mio Ranger Station and District, 107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647; Phone: (989) 826-3252.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - November 30
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Au Sable River.
Common complaintsRustic nature may not suit all campers; some visitors may find the hike-in access inconvenient.
HostNo campground host mentioned.
Campground Map
107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647
Driving directionsFrom Grayling - Travel east on M-72 for 30 miles. Turn left and travel north on M-72/M-33 for 0.5 miles. Turn right and travel east on McKinley Dr. for 3 miles. Turn right into entrance and follow signs.
Permanent gate prohibits motorized access. Access road and parking lot are not plowed during winter. Short 0.25-mile walk from the gate.Nearby places
Grayling (30 miles), Mio (approx. null miles), Oscoda (approx. null miles)
Nearby supplies
Canoe rentals available at Glennie: Alcona Canoe Rental
Hale: Rollways Resort
Mio: Gotts Landing, Hinchman's Acres Resort
Oscoda: Au Sable River Kayaking Company LLC
B & B LLC (Hunts)
Oscoda Canoe Rental.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Meadow Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a positive picture of Meadow Springs Campground as a rustic and beautiful destination, particularly appreciated for its location along the Au Sable River and its wildlife viewing opportunities. The hike-in nature adds to the sense of seclusion and connection with nature.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciated the rustic charm and natural beauty of the site. One user mentioned, 'Beautiful campsite on the Au Sable River. Very rustic and hike in,' while another described it as...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No specific complaints were mentioned in the user reviews, though the rustic nature and minimal facilities may not suit all campers.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
No specific tips or recommendations were provided by the reviewers.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is only open from May 1 to November 30, and most reviews highlight its appeal during warmer months when the river is accessible for paddling and fishing.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great rustic campground!' - Kristen Smith
2. 'Beautiful campsite on the Au Sable River. Very rustic and hike in.' - Dylan Zimmerman
3. 'Beautiful campground with lots to explore!' - Destiny Stiles
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No reviews provided specific details about numbered campsites or particularly notable areas within the campground.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews addressed accessibility features of the campground.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mentioned experiences or policies related to pets.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025