AuSable River Huron National Forest #68

For those of us in Michigan who cherish the wild, untamed beauty of our state's natural landscapes, the Au Sable River offers an unparalleled camping experience. Spanning a remarkable 55 miles of shoreline and bluffs within the vast Huron-Manistee National Forests, the Au Sable River Primitive Camping system features over a hundred individually designated campsites. These aren't your typical crowded campgrounds; instead, they provide a coveted level of seclusion and a deep immersion in nature that is increasingly rare. Among these, AuSable River Huron National Forest #68 stands out as a truly exceptional spot, celebrated by those who have discovered its unique charms.

This is the kind of camping where you can truly disconnect from the everyday hustle and reconnect with the serene rhythms of the forest and river. Imagine waking up to the sounds of birdsong, with the gentle current of the Au Sable River as your backdrop. Site #68 offers a prime example of this rustic tranquility, perfect for Michiganders who value privacy, cleanliness, and direct access to one of our state’s most iconic waterways. If your ideal getaway involves campfires under starry skies and days spent fishing or paddling, this hidden gem deserves a top spot on your list.

AuSable River Huron National Forest #68 is located near Glennie, MI, within the vast expanse of the Huron-Manistee National Forests. The address provided, FCC5+R4, Glennie, MI 48737, is a Plus Code, indicating its precise geographical coordinates within the national forest. While this might seem less specific than a street address, it perfectly highlights the remote and natural setting of these primitive campsites.

Accessing site #68 has been noted by previous campers as being a bit of an adventure, particularly if you’re driving with a larger vehicle or trailering a boat. One reviewer specifically mentioned that "The driveway is a bit of a drive, especially with a boat." This implies that the road leading to the site might be unpaved, narrow, or have some challenging sections, suggesting that careful driving and perhaps a higher-clearance vehicle could be beneficial. However, the same reviewer highly recommends "boating into the site instead," indicating that direct river access is a significant advantage. This boat-in capability means you can beach your vessel right in front of your campsite, with steps leading up from the riverbank, providing a truly unique and convenient way to arrive. This dual accessibility—by land (with caution) or by river—makes site #68 particularly appealing for those planning paddle trips on the Au Sable. Despite the drive, the consensus is that the seclusion and beauty of the site are well worth the journey, proving that the best spots often require a little extra effort to reach.

Services Offered:

• Individual, single-family primitive campsite, offering a high degree of privacy.
• Clean and well-maintained "potty" (vault toilet) for essential sanitation, as noted by visitors.
• Large, spacious campsite, providing ample room for tents and camping gear.
• Direct access to the Au Sable River, including steps up from the riverbank for easy boat access.
• Designated campfire area for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Managed by the Huron-Manistee National Forests, adhering to federal public land regulations.
• Pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your beloved animal companions along for the adventure.

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Seclusion: This site is highly praised for its privacy, allowing campers to truly escape the noise and crowds of more developed areas.
• Prime River Access: Being able to beach your boat directly in front of your site and have steps leading up from the bank is a significant highlight, making it ideal for boating, kayaking, and canoeing enthusiasts.
• Clean Facilities: The presence of a clean and well-stocked vault toilet is a notable advantage for a primitive campsite, enhancing comfort for campers.
• Spacious Layout: The large size of the campsite provides plenty of room to spread out, set up multiple tents if needed, and enjoy the natural surroundings without feeling cramped.
• Rustic Charm: Embrace an authentic wilderness experience with minimal amenities, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
• Boating and Fishing Paradise: The Au Sable River is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly trout, and is a premier destination for paddle sports. Site #68’s direct access makes it a perfect base for these activities.
• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the mature forests of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, the campsite offers picturesque views and ample opportunities for wildlife observation.
• Part of a Larger System: This site is one of 102 individually designated primitive campsites along the Au Sable River, offering a variety of experiences for repeat visitors.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As part of the Au Sable River Primitive Camping system within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, site #68 operates under a standard fee structure for federal primitive campsites. The typical fee for a single primitive campsite is $10.00 per night. Reservations for these sites are generally required from May 15 to September 30 and can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. There is usually a one-time reservation fee of $10.00. Outside of this designated reservation period, sites are often available on a first-come, first-served basis.

While there are no specific "promotions" unique to site #68, the value proposition lies in the affordable access to a private, high-quality primitive camping experience in a sought-after location. For frequent visitors to federal recreation lands, considering an America the Beautiful Pass (Annual Pass) can provide significant savings on entrance and amenity fees across national parks and forests. For Michigan residents who also visit state parks, a Michigan Recreation Passport offers similar benefits for state-managed lands. These passes are designed to encourage exploration and enjoyment of our incredible public lands at a reasonable cost.

Contact Information:

Address: FCC5+R4, Glennie, MI 48737, USA (This is a Plus Code; for detailed navigational instructions, refer to your reservation confirmation or Recreation.gov maps.)

For general inquiries about the Au Sable River Primitive Camping area within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, you can contact the managing ranger station:

Huron Shores Ranger Station: (989) 739-0728

For reservations: Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

AuSable River Huron National Forest #68 is an ideal choice for Michigan locals seeking an authentic and private outdoor experience. It perfectly embodies the spirit of Michigan camping for those who desire to truly disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. The feedback from fellow Michiganders highlights exactly what makes this site special: "Sick camp spot" and praise for its cleanliness and large size. The unique advantage of being able to "beach your boat right in front of the site" is a game-changer for paddle enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled level of convenience for river adventures.

While the drive may be a "bit of a drive" and potentially challenging with a boat, this serves as a natural filter, ensuring that the site remains relatively uncrowded and pristine for those who are willing to make the journey. This small effort is a small price to pay for the exceptional privacy and direct river access it offers. The clean vault toilet further enhances the comfort of this rustic setting, a detail often appreciated by experienced campers.

For Michigan residents, site #68 offers a truly rewarding opportunity to enjoy our state's incredible natural resources. Whether you’re an angler hoping to catch a prized trout, a paddler seeking serene stretches of river, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat to camp under the stars, this Au Sable River gem provides an affordable, memorable, and quintessentially Michigan outdoor adventure right in our own backyard.