1. Refined Travel
  2. Parks Near Me
  3. Michigan
  4. Arenac County
  5. Sterling
  6. Parks in Townline Road
  7. Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 1Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 2Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 3Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 4Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 5Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 6Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 7Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 8Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 9Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery 10

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery Overview

Rating

Phone (989) 654-2556

Address 5825 Townline Rd, Sterling, MI 48659, USA

Website https://riflerivercampground.net/

Hours

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery Location & Map

MichiganArenac CountySterlingTownline Road

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery About

Michigan, our beloved Mitten State, offers an incredible array of outdoor adventures, from the serene shores of the Great Lakes to the winding paths of its vast forests. Among the most cherished experiences for locals is camping alongside our beautiful rivers, where the gentle flow of water sets the rhythm for relaxation and recreation. For those seeking an unforgettable blend of riverside tranquility, exciting water activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery in Sterling stands out as a premier destination right here in Michigan.

Introduction / Overview

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a vibrant hub for river-based adventures and a peaceful retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled along the picturesque Rifle River, this campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Michigan's natural beauty while enjoying a range of activities. The emphasis here is on providing a clean, well-maintained environment with outstanding customer service, ensuring a memorable stay for every visitor. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and the stunning views. One enthusiastic reviewer shared, "Love the amazing sites! The woman in the office did an outstanding job. Campground is clean and you cant beat the view of the river. We will absolutely be back! I strongly recommend." Another highlighted the exceptional accommodation, even during the early season: "We were there early season! They were nice enough to even let us stay before they were even open! Very accommodating! Such nice people! The river was beautiful!" This dedication to hospitality and natural beauty makes Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery a highly recommended spot for anyone looking for a genuine Michigan outdoor experience.

Location and Accessibility

Strategically located at 5825 Townline Rd, Sterling, MI 48659, USA, Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery offers excellent accessibility for campers from across Michigan. Sterling, a charming community in Arenac County, provides a quiet, small-town backdrop that perfectly complements the natural tranquility of the campground. The location directly on the Rifle River is a significant advantage, offering immediate access to a prime waterway for various recreational pursuits. While enjoying the peaceful riverfront setting, campers are still within a reasonable drive of essential services and local attractions in Sterling and nearby communities. For those interested in expanding their fishing horizons, the campground is noted as being "About an hour from the AuSable," referring to the famous Au Sable River, a world-renowned trout fishing destination. This makes Rifle River Campground an ideal base camp for anglers looking to explore multiple prime fishing spots in the region. The area is well-connected by state highways, making the drive to the campground straightforward for both RVs and vehicles towing watercraft. The combination of secluded riverside beauty and convenient access to both local amenities and broader regional attractions truly sets Rifle River Campground apart for Michigan locals.

Services Offered

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery offers a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance the camping experience and facilitate river adventures. Their dedication to guest satisfaction is evident in the thoughtful amenities and offerings:

  • Variety of Campsites: Providing options for different camping preferences, including sites with stunning river views, and those suitable for tents or RVs.
  • Canoe, Kayak, and Tube Rentals: A core service, offering all the necessary equipment for enjoying a float down the Rifle River. As one reviewer noted, "Looks like it would be a great place to rent canoes, kayaks or tubes."
  • Shuttle Service: Essential for river trips, providing transportation upriver so you can float back to the campground at your leisure.
  • Clean Restrooms and Showers: Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness for communal facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • On-Site Store: Likely offering essential camping supplies, snacks, beverages, and perhaps bait for fishing.
  • Firewood and Ice Sales: Conveniently available for purchase to enhance your camping experience.
  • Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes well-behaved pets, allowing you to bring your furry companions on your outdoor adventure.
  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Provided at each campsite for outdoor dining and campfires under the stars.
  • Group Camping Areas: Potential options for larger groups or family gatherings.
  • Fishing Access: Direct access to the Rifle River, known for good fishing, including brown trout, as mentioned by a delighted camper.

Features / Highlights

Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery truly stands out due to its unique features and highlights that create a memorable outdoor experience for all its visitors:

  • Stunning River Views: A primary highlight, offering picturesque scenery directly from many campsites, perfect for relaxation and photography.
  • Direct River Access: Unparalleled convenience for launching canoes, kayaks, or tubes directly into the Rifle River for immediate adventure.
  • Excellent Water Activities: Ideal for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and swimming in the refreshing river waters.
  • Outstanding Fishing Opportunities: The Rifle River is known for its trout (including brown trout as experienced by a customer) and other fish species, making it a haven for anglers.
  • Clean and Well-Maintained Environment: Consistently praised by visitors for its cleanliness and tidy appearance, contributing to a pleasant stay.
  • Friendly and Accommodating Staff: Reviews frequently commend the "nice people" and the "outstanding job" done by the office staff, highlighting their exceptional customer service.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite the recreational activities, the campground maintains a serene ambiance, allowing for true relaxation.
  • Proximity to Au Sable River: A valuable highlight for serious anglers, being about an hour away from one of Michigan's most famous trout streams.
  • Variety of Site Types: Offering diverse options from rustic tent sites to RV sites with amenities, catering to different camping preferences.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific promotions can vary by season and demand, campgrounds often provide special offers to enhance the visitor experience and encourage bookings. It is always recommended to contact Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery directly to inquire about their most current promotions. Potential offers that campgrounds might provide include:

  • Early Season Discounts: Special rates for bookings made during the less busy times of the year, often at the beginning or end of the camping season.
  • Multi-Night Stay Discounts: Reduced per-night rates for booking extended stays, such as three nights or more.
  • Group Discounts: Special pricing for larger groups booking multiple campsites or a group area.
  • Off-Peak Specials: Incentives for visiting during weekdays or non-holiday periods when the campground might be less crowded.
  • Package Deals: Bundled offers that might include campsite rental along with canoe, kayak, or tube rentals for a comprehensive experience.

Be sure to ask about any current deals that could make your Michigan river adventure even more affordable and enjoyable.

Contact Information

Ready to plan your next riverside camping and paddling adventure in Michigan? For reservations, inquiries about campsite availability, or to learn more about canoe, kayak, and tube rentals, please reach out to the friendly team at Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery. They are eager to assist you in making your visit an unforgettable one.

Address: 5825 Townline Rd, Sterling, MI 48659, USA

Phone: (989) 654-2556

Mobile Phone: +1 989-654-2556

Calling directly is the best way to get the most accurate and up-to-date information for your trip.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michigan locals, Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery offers an unparalleled opportunity to embrace our state's rich outdoor heritage. Its prime location directly on the picturesque Rifle River provides immediate access to canoeing, kayaking, and tubing adventures that are a hallmark of Michigan summers. The emphasis on cleanliness and the friendly, accommodating staff, as consistently highlighted by satisfied visitors, ensures a comfortable and welcoming environment. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to hook a brown trout, a family looking for a fun day on the water, or simply someone seeking a peaceful riverside retreat with stunning views, this campground caters to diverse needs. The convenience of on-site rentals means you don't need to own expensive equipment to enjoy the river. Furthermore, its proximity to other renowned fishing destinations like the Au Sable River makes it an ideal base for extended outdoor exploration. Rifle River Campground & Canoe Livery isn't just a place to stay; it's a gateway to authentic Michigan outdoor experiences, making it perfectly suitable for anyone in our state looking for adventure, relaxation, and a genuine connection with nature.

Customer Reviews

3.0
307 reviews
C
Chris Chritz
May 27, 2025

Love the amazing sites! The woman in the office did an outstanding job. Campground is clean and you cant beat the view of the river. We will absolutely be back! I strongly recommend

L
Lisa Jahnke
May 01, 2025

We were there early season! They were nice enough to even let us stay before they were even open! Very accommodating! Such nice people! The river was beautiful! Had a brown trout hooked on. About an hour from the AuSable. Looks like it would be a great place to rent canoes, kayaks or tubes.

K
Kelley Harvey
May 25, 2025

If you're looking for a perfect getaway with breathtaking views of the rifle river look no further 🤩🤩 Campground has nice big sites and the staff was very nice and accommodating to our large party. The restrooms are clean and the camp store has all the little extras we all forget. Thank you Rifle River ❤️💙❤️💙

A
April Kline
Jul 29, 2024

We have been camping here for 2 years with a group of 12. Today at checkout we decided to not book here for our next year's camping trip. The 2 older women in the office are not very friendly and are very rude. The bookkeeping is pretty out dated, life would be easier for them if they would get things on a computer. It is always a mess to check in, always spend tons of extra time trying to find where they put your paperwork, getting your car passes and bracelets. We have always paid a year in advance . We are all adult's in our group and have always followed the rules, but they always seem to find their way to our campsite to harass us about something. They do not like to see people having fun or enjoying their time at all. If you can not handle working with the public, then I believe it is time for you to hire some people who enjoy working with people to make this campground great again. We support your store by buying wood, ice, etc, and now you have lost that because you do not know how to treat people, and you make it miserable to be at your campground. Our site was beautiful, but putting up with the lady on the golf cart is not worth it. It's time to find a new campground to enjoy our annual camping trip. You have lost the business of this group of 12.

G
Graslyn Clement
Aug 04, 2024

The staff was incredibly disrespectful (specifically the owner). We attempted to get off of our tubes from the river and she came screaming at us. She proceeded to tell us that we needed to pay $40 to exit the camp. Because we are four 16-year-old girls, we did NOT have that money with us. We offered the money we had ($10) she took it and then she proceeded to say we still couldn't exit until she received the rest of the payment. We declined and said we don't have it and she told us that we could either get back on the river or she was going to block the driveway and call the police. So we unfortunately had to go back into the river with a deflated tube, no water, no food, and no sunscreen. I have a condition (that she was aware of) and cannot handle extreme heat so this was extremely dangerous. Before we left I tried to get my money back from the disrespectful lady and she told me that she "didn't trust that we leave the premises". So with no other option, we had to go back into the river and walk it. The lady decided that she was going to have her employees follow us down the river and occasionally get out of their vehicles and stare at us. mind you we are four 16-year-old girls and are not comfortable with a bunch of old men staring at us. As we were leaving she told us that there was a public exit “15 minutes tubing, but 30 minutes since you're walking. She lied. It was 2 hours away. Now I'm sitting here dehydrated, hungry, and sunburnt. I have no respect for any of these people. Do NOT go here. But I would like to say thank you to the kind civilians who helped me and my friends get home safely and hydrated. Because if it was up to Rifle River we would be stranded.