Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground

For Michiganders who truly embrace the spirit of rustic camping and river adventures, Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground in Luzerne offers an authentic and popular escape. Nestled along the banks of the legendary Au Sable River, this state forest campground provides a back-to-basics experience that resonates with those seeking a genuine connection to Michigan's incredible natural landscapes. It's a place where the sounds of the wilderness take precedence and the river becomes your primary pathway to exploration. While it offers a primitive setting, it's designed to cater to the needs of paddlers and those who cherish quiet, forested campsites.

Customer reviews paint a vivid picture of Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground. One appreciative camper noted it as a "Nice place to primitive camp," and highlighted the convenience of using it as a "take out" after launching kayaks from upstream. They also pointed out the benefit of "A few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance." However, another review provides a contrasting perspective, mentioning "Semis driving the road will make you think banshees are coming to get you. Anyone who says it's quiet or peaceful hasn't tried to sleep here." This feedback suggests that while the natural setting is beautiful and accessible, the proximity to a road might impact the tranquility for some campers. Despite this, its renowned location on the Au Sable River and its primitive charm continue to draw many Michigan outdoor enthusiasts.

Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground is ideally situated at Luzerne, MI 48636, USA, within Oscoda County and the expansive Huron-Manistee National Forests. Specifically, it lies approximately 10 miles west of Mio, a well-known hub for outdoor recreation in northern Michigan. The campground's location directly on the Au Sable National Scenic River is its most defining characteristic, making it a prime spot for water-based activities.

Accessibility to Parmalee Bridge is straightforward for Michigan residents familiar with state forest roads. While it offers a rustic and primitive experience, it is a drive-in campground with 7 individual drive-in campsites. This means you can bring your vehicle directly to your site, making setup relatively easy. For those traveling from Mio, directions typically involve M-72 West, followed by a series of well-marked forest roads such as Mapes Road, Brown Cabin Road, Deeter Road, and North Red Oak Road. Beyond the drive-in sites, there is also a significant paddle-in group camping area, accessible directly from the Au Sable River. This highlights its dual appeal for both traditional campers and river adventurers. Furthermore, the presence of "a few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance," provides a practical convenience for primitive campers who might need last-minute supplies or snacks, mitigating some of the typical remoteness of state forest campgrounds.

Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground operates as a rustic camping facility, offering essential services to support an authentic outdoor experience on the Au Sable River. As a Michigan State Forest Campground managed by the DNR (specifically, by the Rifle River Recreation Area), it adheres to a model that prioritizes natural immersion over extensive amenities.

• Individual Campsites: The campground provides 7 individual drive-in campsites, designed for tent and small trailer use. These sites are often described as heavily shaded by red pines, offering a natural setting.

• Paddle-in Group Camping Area: A significant service is the large, dedicated paddle-in group camping area located on the west side of the campground. This area is specifically designed for groups arriving by canoe or kayak, offering four fire pits and six picnic tables, making it ideal for multi-day river trips.

• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities are available in the form of vault toilets. While one review noted they "can be questionable," they are generally provided for hygiene and convenience at rustic sites.

• Potable Water: Campers have access to potable water from a hand-pump well. This is centrally located between the main camping area and the group-camping area, ensuring a source of drinking water.

• Boat Launch: A gravel and sand boat launch is available for easy carry-in access to the Au Sable River, making it convenient for paddlers to launch and take out.

• Picnic Area: A large, open picnic area is centrally located between the campsites and the river, featuring picnic tables for day use or dining.

• Dumpster: A centrally located dumpster is provided for trash disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.

• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations are accepted. This allows for spontaneous trips but advises early arrival during peak times.

• Maximum Stay: Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay.

Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Michigan locals, particularly those passionate about river recreation and primitive camping.

• Prime Au Sable River Location: Its most significant highlight is its direct and excellent access to the Au Sable National Scenic River. This makes it an ideal spot for canoeing, kayaking, and rafting, with an easy carry-in launch. The river is a core part of the Michigan outdoor experience.

• Excellent Paddling and Fishing Opportunities: The campground is renowned for "excellent paddling and fishing opportunities." Trout, bass, and pike are frequently caught in the Au Sable River, attracting anglers. The ability to launch and take out directly from the campground or use it as a destination from upstream makes it highly functional for paddlers, as noted by the customer who floated down from Rainbow Bend.

• Dedicated Canoe Camp / Group Area: The large paddle-in group camping area is a unique feature, catering specifically to groups on multi-day river trips. It provides designated fire pits and picnic tables, enhancing the experience for larger parties.

• Rustic and Primitive Camping: For those who enjoy a "primitive camp" experience, Parmalee Bridge delivers. It offers a simpler, more natural setting away from the amenities of highly developed campgrounds, appealing to campers who prefer to "rough it" slightly more.

• Heavily Shaded Campsites: The individual campsites are "heavily shaded by a canopy of red pines," providing natural shade and a classic northern Michigan forest ambiance.

• Convenient Local Access: Despite its primitive nature, the campground benefits from "A few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance," which is a considerable convenience for primitive campers needing quick resupplies.

• Recreation Passport Value: As a Michigan State Forest Campground, it operates under the Recreation Passport system, offering excellent value for Michigan residents who frequently use state parks and recreation areas.

• Walk-in Access to the River: A short set of stairs leads from the parking area to the river, providing easy access for those on foot to fish or observe the river.

As a Michigan State Forest Campground, Parmalee Bridge operates under the umbrella of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might. Its pricing and operational model are standardized across the state forest campground system.

However, for Michigan locals, the inherent "special offer" of Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground lies in its consistent affordability and the quality of the primitive outdoor experience it provides. These campgrounds are generally very budget-friendly compared to private campgrounds, making high-quality outdoor adventures accessible to a wide range of residents.

Key aspects that function as consistent "offers" for campers include:

• Affordable Nightly Rates: State forest campgrounds generally have a low nightly fee per campsite, providing excellent value for a rustic camping experience.

• Michigan Recreation Passport: While a requirement, the Michigan Recreation Passport (an annual pass often purchased with vehicle registration) provides an excellent return on investment for frequent users. It grants access to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas, including state forest campgrounds, for one annual fee. For Michiganders, this is the most cost-effective way to enjoy these sites throughout the year.

• First-Come, First-Served Availability: This system offers flexibility for spontaneous trips, acting as a "special offer" for those who prefer not to make reservations far in advance.

Any specific alerts or changes in operational status (e.g., closures due to weather, fire bans, or changes to facilities) would be communicated through the Michigan DNR website or directly by contacting the local DNR office or the Mio Ranger Station. It is always recommended to check these official sources for the most current information before planning your trip.

For inquiries about Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground, the primary point of contact is the managing Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office, which oversees state forest campgrounds in the area.

Address: Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground Luzerne, MI 48636, USA

Phone: (989) 473-2258

Mobile Phone: +1 989-473-2258 (This number likely connects to the same DNR office responsible for the campground, possibly the Rifle River Recreation Area which manages this site, or a local field office.)

Since Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system, calling to check real-time site availability might not always be accurate due to the dynamic nature of walk-in sites. However, the phone number is invaluable for obtaining up-to-date information on:

• Current campground conditions (e.g., open/closed, water availability)

• Fire restrictions or advisories

• Any temporary closures or alerts impacting access

• General rules and regulations for state forest camping

• Information on the Michigan Recreation Passport

For the most current and accurate information to ensure a smooth trip, reaching out to the DNR office via the provided phone number is highly recommended.

For Michigan locals, Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground offers a quintessential "Up North" primitive camping experience that is deeply woven into the fabric of our state's outdoor heritage. Its direct location on the Au Sable National Scenic River makes it an unparalleled choice for paddlers and anglers. The ability to launch kayaks directly from the campground, or use it as a convenient take-out point from upstream adventures, speaks directly to the recreational passions of many Michiganders. This seamless integration with one of our most iconic rivers positions it as a premier destination for those who measure a good camping trip by the quality of its water access and fishing opportunities.

While a review notes potential noise from passing semis, the core appeal of Parmalee Bridge lies in its rustic charm and the intentional lack of commercial amenities. This appeals to Michigan residents who seek genuine tranquility and a break from the over-developed. The presence of individual drive-in campsites and a large, dedicated paddle-in group area caters to both solo adventurers and larger groups, offering flexibility for different types of trips. The nearby local stores, even within walking distance, provide a practical convenience that balances the primitive feel with necessary accessibility.

Furthermore, as a Michigan State Forest Campground, Parmalee Bridge exemplifies the value of our public lands. Its affordability, supported by the Michigan Recreation Passport, ensures that these beautiful natural spaces remain accessible to all residents. It’s a place where you can experience true wilderness, set up camp under a canopy of red pines, and wake up to the sounds of the Au Sable River, all without breaking the bank. For Michiganders who prioritize authentic outdoor immersion, excellent river recreation, and the rustic charm of state forest camping, Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground remains a highly suitable and cherished retreat, a place where lasting memories of Michigan's wild beauty are made.