River Dune Campground
02 reviews107 McKinley Road Mio, MI 48647
River Dune 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 a secluded pocket of Michigan's wilderness, River Dune Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking authentic primitive camping. This hidden gem sits perfectly positioned between two beloved landmarks—the Au Sable River Scenic Overlook and the Au Sable Loop Campground. Your adventure begins with a peaceful half-mile walk from the parking area, leading you through the forest to this tranquil retreat. Far removed from the hustle of roadways and neighboring campsites, River Dune provides the rare opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature's embrace.
River Dune Campground is a walk-in, tent-only camping site with a secluded and scenic environment near the Au Sable River. It is a free-use site without reservations.
Historical SignificanceRiver Dune Campground stands as a gateway to one of Michigan's most treasured waterways—the Au Sable National Scenic River. This protected corridor has witnessed centuries of history, from Native American heritage to the logging era that shaped Michigan's identity. Today, this designation ensures that the river's ecological treasures and cultural legacy remain preserved for generations of outdoor enthusiasts to discover and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the awakening of spring on May 1st through the last whispers of autumn on November 30th, River Dune welcomes adventurers to experience the changing face of Michigan's wilderness. Summer brings those perfect camping days—warm sunshine filtering through the canopy, cool evenings by the campfire, and ideal conditions for river exploration. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and the forest coming alive, while autumn paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons. Though winter's beauty blankets the area, the campground rests under snow from December through April, as access roads remain unplowed during these months.
ElevationThe campground's terrain offers gentle contours that follow the natural landscape of the river valley, creating an intimate connection with the surrounding environment.
Natural Features and SceneryHere, where the forest meets the river, nature puts on a spectacular show. Towering trees create a living cathedral above your campsite, their leaves whispering ancient stories in the breeze. The star attraction lies just a short stairway descent from camp—the legendary Au Sable River, its clear waters reflecting the sky as it winds through the wilderness. This pristine setting offers front-row seats to Michigan's natural theater: morning mist rising from the water, eagles soaring overhead, and the peaceful soundtrack of flowing water that lulls you to sleep each night.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive Huron-Manistee National Forests, River Dune Campground occupies a special place in the Au Sable National Scenic River corridor. This remarkable landscape showcases the geological artistry of northern Michigan, where ancient glaciers carved the river valley and left behind the rolling dunes and diverse ecosystems that define this extraordinary region today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess to the campground is by foot only, approximately 0.5 miles from the parking area. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe site is described as small, with user reviews noting that approximately 10 tents could be set up at the cleared and level campsite.
Sites PrivacyThe site is set back from the road and the main camping area, providing a sense of seclusion and privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe site is ideal for those seeking solitude and proximity to the river. Visitors should pack in all supplies and water as none are provided.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Open 24 hours
- no specific check-in time.
Check-out
- Open 24 hours
- no specific check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific information about guest limits per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle campsite located approximately 0.5 miles from the parking area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 1 through November 30.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; only walk-in.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis site is walk-in only, and campers must access the area approximately 0.5 miles from the parking area.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies not specified.
Activities you can enjoy
River Dune Campground offers a tranquil environment with access to non-motorized boating and fishing in the Au Sable River. The scenic location allows visitors to enjoy river views and engage in outdoor exploration.
Fishing
Fishing is available at this site, with the Au Sable River being a notable spot for this activity. User reviews describe it as a 'great river to fish at.'Boating
Non-motorized boating activities such as canoeing are supported. Nearby rental services include Alcona Canoe Rental, Rollways Resort, Gotts Landing, Hinchman's Acres Resort, and others.Winter Activities
The site is not maintained in the winter, and activities are likely limited due to unplowed access roads and parking lots.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports opportunities are available, such as canoeing and kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted at designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are Forest quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsCampers should be aware of potential wildlife hazards and must follow Leave No Trace principles, including proper waste disposal. The area does not have potable water.
Active alertsNone.
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 for immediate assistance. For medical emergencies, visitors should contact local hospitals or emergency services in the nearby town of Mio.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of trash or recycling facilities at the site. Campers may need to pack out their waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to the Au Sable River. A staircase provides easy access to the river for activities.
Common complaintsNone reported.
HostNo campground host information available.
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 .5 miles. Turn right and travel east on McKinley Dr. for 3 miles. Turn right into entrance for Au Sable Loop Campground. Drive 1 mile, parking area is on left .25 miles before Au Sable Loop Campground. Walk-in about .5 miles to campsite.
The access road to the site is gated, prohibiting motorized access. Visitors must walk in approximately 0.5 miles from the parking area. The parking area accommodates up to two vehicles and is located 0.25 miles before Au Sable Loop Campground.Nearby places
Grayling (30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Canoe rentals available in Glennie (Alcona Canoe Rental), Hale (Rollways Resort), Mio (Gotts Landing, Hinchman's Acres Resort), Oscoda (Au Sable River Kayaking Company LLC, Oscoda Canoe Rental).
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
River Dune Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and scenic nature of this small campground, with easy access to the river and a well-maintained outhouse. Some users noted the lack of potable water and better waste management practices.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciated the 'cleared and level' campsites, the scenic views of the river, and the clean outhouse facility with hand sanitizer and toilet paper provided. One user noted that the site was...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A notable issue mentioned was improper waste disposal by some visitors, with one reviewer stating, 'Except for the people not using the outhouse and just doing their thing on the top of the ground...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own water supply as there is no potable water on-site. A user also noted that there is 'lots of firewood to burn up,' indicating the availability of natural resources...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest a positive experience during the open season (May 1 - November 30), with particular enjoyment of the camping and fishing opportunities during warmer months.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The take out was nice, with timbers going to the water's edge. Easy place to unload, and not a far walk to the camp sites.' 2. 'Loved it out there, great camping spot and great river to fish at.'...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground is described as capable of accommodating multiple tents, with user estimates suggesting space for about 10 tents.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user feedback specifically mentions policies or experiences related to pets.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025