Campsite 5C Ausable River Camping

For Michigan residents seeking an authentic, off-the-grid camping adventure, Campsite 5C along the legendary Au Sable River offers a truly memorable escape. Nestled deep within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, this particular site is part of a series of designated primitive campsites that dot the scenic river, providing unparalleled access to one of Michigan's most beloved waterways. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, cast a line for trout, or simply enjoy the tranquility of a riverside setting, Campsite 5C delivers a classic Michigan wilderness experience.

The Au Sable River is renowned across Michigan for its exceptional fishing, paddling opportunities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Campsite 5C allows you to be right at the heart of it all. While it offers a rustic charm that appeals to seasoned campers, it also serves as a fantastic introduction to primitive camping for those ready to embrace the outdoors in a more unadulterated form. As one past visitor noted, it offers a "wonderful view and decent site," promising those picturesque Michigan moments we all crave.

It’s important for prospective campers to understand that this isn’t a typical campground with paved roads and modern amenities. Instead, Campsite 5C is about embracing simplicity and the raw beauty of Michigan's forests. It's designed for adventurers who prioritize the sounds of the river, the scent of pine, and the starry night sky over creature comforts. This commitment to a natural experience is what makes it so special for many Michiganders looking for a genuine outdoor retreat.

Campsite 5C is located along the Au Sable River, near South Branch, MI 48761, USA. More specifically, this individual campsite is part of the broader Au Sable River Primitive Camping system within the Huron-Manistee National Forests. This extensive system comprises 102 individually designated single-family campsites spread along a 55-mile stretch of the Au Sable River shoreline and bluffs, running through Alcona and Iosco Counties, from the 4001 Bridge to Oscoda.

Accessibility to Campsite 5C, and many of the primitive sites along this stretch of the Au Sable, often leans towards "paddle-in" or "walk-in" access, emphasizing a more adventurous approach to camping. While some sites might have limited vehicle access nearby, many are best reached by canoe or kayak, allowing campers to truly disconnect and experience the river as early explorers did. For instance, the main AuSable River State Forest Campground and Canoe Camp, which is part of this network, offers 5 paddle-in/walk-in group sites with parking available near a kiosk, followed by signage to the sites. This suggests that while there might be a central access point, the specific site 5C may require a short hike or paddle to reach.

The location near South Branch, MI, places campers in a prime area for fishing, paddling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Au Sable River. While deep in the forest, the general area is within reasonable driving distance of smaller towns like South Branch, Mio, and Oscoda, where campers can find supplies, bait shops, and other necessities. This balance allows for both immersion in nature and convenient access to essential services when needed.

Given that Campsite 5C is a primitive or rustic campsite within a state forest/national forest system, the services offered are minimal, focusing on providing a natural camping experience while adhering to essential environmental principles. This aligns with the "Leave No Trace" ethos that such wilderness areas promote.

• Designated Campsite: Campsite 5C is an officially recognized single-family campsite, providing a clear, established area for camping, typically marked with a post or sign.
• Fire Ring: Each site generally includes a metal fire ring for contained campfires, essential for cooking and warmth in a rustic setting.
• Picnic Table: While not explicitly stated for every primitive site, many designated sites in these systems include a picnic table for convenience.
• Pets Allowed: Generally, pets are permitted at these rustic sites, though owners are expected to follow leash laws and clean up after their animals.
• Camping Permit (Seasonal): From May 15 to September 10, a camping permit is required for these primitive campsites, ensuring proper management and user tracking. No permit is required outside of this season, but sites are not maintained in winter.
• Access to River: The primary "service" is direct access to the Au Sable River for paddling, fishing, and water-related activities.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: While not a traditional "service," campers are expected to pack out all trash and leave no trace, maintaining the pristine nature of the site.

It is important to note that, as a rustic site, Campsite 5C does NOT offer amenities such as vault toilets, potable water pumps, or maintained facilities found in more developed campgrounds. Campers should be prepared for a truly self-sufficient experience, bringing their own water and having a plan for human waste disposal (e.g., catholes dug at least 200 feet from water sources and campsites, or portable toilets where allowed). The review mentioning "No toilet" confirms the primitive nature of this specific site.

• Exceptional River Access: The most significant feature of Campsite 5C is its direct adjacency to the Au Sable River. This makes it a prime location for Michigan's legendary trout fishing, canoe trips, kayaking, and enjoying the serene flow of the water.
• Secluded Natural Setting: Being a primitive site, 5C offers a more private and immersive wilderness experience compared to larger, more crowded campgrounds. Campers can truly disconnect and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest.
• Scenic Beauty: The Au Sable River corridor is known for its stunning natural beauty, with tall pines, hardwoods, and diverse wildlife. Camping here means waking up to picturesque views and being surrounded by Michigan's natural splendor.
• Trout Fishing Hotspot: The Au Sable River is a world-renowned trout stream, attracting anglers from across Michigan and beyond. Camping at 5C puts you right on the water, offering immediate access to prime fishing spots for brown, brook, and rainbow trout.
• Paddling Adventures: Ideal for canoe and kayak camping, the site serves as an excellent stopover point for multi-day paddling trips along the Au Sable River. It’s perfect for those who enjoy combining a river journey with an overnight stay in nature.
• Wildlife Viewing: The extensive forest surrounding the site provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and other forest inhabitants.
• Rustic Charm: For campers who prefer a minimalist approach, the lack of modern amenities is a highlight, forcing a deeper connection with nature and a reliance on outdoor skills.

While a previous review mentioned a "rope swing is broke," it suggests that at one point there might have been additional informal features, highlighting the raw, undeveloped nature of these sites where amenities are not actively maintained beyond basic designation.

Campsite 5C, being part of the Au Sable River Primitive Camping system managed by the U.S. Forest Service or Michigan DNR, operates on a standardized fee structure and typically does not offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might. The focus is on affordable public access to natural resources.

However, it's important for Michigan residents to be aware of the following regarding costs and access:

• Camping Fees: As of available public data, primitive single sites along the Au Sable River generally cost around $10.00 per night. This fee is standard and contributes to the upkeep of the general forest areas.
• Permit Requirement: From May 15 to September 10, a camping permit is required for these primitive campsites. While not a "promotion," understanding this requirement and obtaining the permit ensures a smooth camping experience and compliance with forest regulations. Permits often have a low cost, if any.
• Recreation Passport (for State Forest Campgrounds): If Campsite 5C falls under a Michigan State Forest Campground (some Au Sable River sites do), a Michigan Recreation Passport would be required for vehicle entry to the area. This annual pass offers excellent value for Michiganders who frequently visit state parks and forest campgrounds.

It is always advisable to check the official Michigan DNR website or the Huron-Manistee National Forests website, or contact the relevant ranger district, for the most current information on fees, permits, and any specific regulations for primitive camping on the Au Sable River. While special discounts aren't common, the inherent affordability and natural beauty of these sites are their primary draw.

For specific details about Campsite 5C within the Au Sable River Primitive Camping system, and for information on the Huron-Manistee National Forests, it is best to contact the relevant ranger district. Since the address is listed as "South Branch, MI 48761, USA," contacting the Oscoda Ranger District is often the most direct route.

• Address (General Area): South Branch, MI 48761, USA. (Note: This is a general area; specific GPS coordinates for individual sites might be available via mapping apps or detailed forest service maps.)
• Huron Shores Ranger Station (Managing Unit): 5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750
• Phone: (989) 739-0728 (Huron Shores Ranger Station)
• Alternative Contact for Campground Inquiries: (989) 362-8961 (Often listed for Au Sable River Camping on Recreation.gov)
• Website: For comprehensive information, visit the official Huron-Manistee National Forests website (fs.usda.gov/hmnf) or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website (michigan.gov/dnr) for state forest campgrounds.

It's highly recommended to call ahead, especially for current conditions, accessibility, and permit requirements, as primitive sites can be affected by weather or seasonal changes.

Campsite 5C on the Au Sable River is ideally suited for Michigan locals who seek an authentic, no-frills outdoor experience in one of the state's most cherished natural areas. Its unique charm lies in its rustic nature, offering a profound sense of escape from daily life and a deep connection with Michigan's beautiful wilderness.

For residents who cherish activities like fly fishing, canoe tripping, or simply unwinding by a campfire, this site provides an unmatched opportunity. The Au Sable River is practically in the backyard of many Michiganders, and having direct access to its world-class fishing and serene paddling waters is a significant draw. It’s a place where Michigan’s outdoor traditions truly come alive.

The "paddle-in" or "walk-in" access, while requiring more preparation, appeals to those who value seclusion and a quieter experience away from the crowds often found at more developed campgrounds. It fosters a sense of adventure and self-reliance, which many Michiganders appreciate in their outdoor pursuits. Even with challenges like "lots of bugs" as mentioned in a review, these are often seen as part of the genuine Michigan camping experience, a small trade-off for the stunning "wonderful view" and decent site.

Furthermore, the affordability of these primitive sites, coupled with the value of a Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle access to broader state lands, makes this a highly accessible option for regular getaways. It’s a chance to spend quality time in nature without a significant financial outlay.

In essence, Campsite 5C isn't just a patch of ground; it's an invitation to engage with the wild heart of Michigan. It’s perfect for the local who understands and appreciates the value of disconnecting to reconnect – with nature, with family and friends, and with the simple joys of a campfire under a vast Michigan sky.