Site 073D Ausable River Camping

For Michiganders seeking a spacious and authentically rustic camping experience nestled in the heart of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, Site 073D along the legendary Au Sable River offers a compelling option. This primitive campsite stands out for its generous size, providing ample room for multiple tents and vehicles, making it ideal for groups, families, or those who simply enjoy having extra space to spread out in nature. It's a place where the sounds of the forest, the crackle of a campfire, and the allure of a cool river swim define your Michigan getaway.

The Au Sable River is a jewel in Michigan's crown, celebrated for its pristine waters, abundant fishing opportunities, and scenic paddling routes. Site 073D, while offering a unique approach to river access, still places you firmly within this cherished natural corridor. As one satisfied camper noted, it's a "large site on the highbanks" with a "good mix of sun and shade," and they "definitely recommend this site." This feedback highlights its key advantages for those prioritizing space and a comfortable forest setting over direct, easy water entry.

This isn't a conventional campground with paved roads and modern conveniences; instead, Site 073D embraces the simplicity of primitive camping. It caters to adventurers who are prepared for a self-sufficient experience, value privacy, and appreciate the raw beauty of Michigan's wilderness. The presence of a bonfire ring with a grate and plenty of downed wood, as mentioned by a reviewer, further enhances its appeal for traditional outdoor enthusiasts eager to make the most of their time in nature.

Site 073D Au Sable River Camping is located in Oscoda Township, MI 48750, USA. This places it within the vast Huron-Manistee National Forests and along the famous Au Sable River. The Au Sable River Primitive Camping system, of which Site 073D is a part, encompasses a significant stretch of the river, offering a collection of designated campsites that provide varying levels of access and unique characteristics.

Accessibility to Site 073D appears to be more forgiving than some of the more remote, strictly paddle-in sites. Reviews indicate it is "about 200 to 300 feet from the road," suggesting vehicle access is relatively close, allowing for easy setup for "multiple tents with several cars." While cars do drive by every few hours, this implies a generally quiet forest road, maintaining a sense of seclusion. Campers typically access these sites by driving along designated forest roads, parking near the site, and then carrying their gear in a short distance. While precise GPS coordinates for individual primitive sites can vary and are often best confirmed with the local ranger district or detailed forest maps, the address in Oscoda Township provides a good general indicator of its location within the broader Au Sable River camping network.

The site's position in Oscoda Township offers a convenient balance between deep-woods immersion and access to essential services. The town of Oscoda itself is a short drive away, providing grocery stores, bait and tackle shops, restaurants, and other supplies that campers might need. This proximity ensures that while you can fully disconnect in the forest, you're never too far from necessary provisions, making it a practical choice for both extended stays and weekend getaways in Michigan. The surrounding national forest also provides extensive opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of Northern Michigan.

As a primitive or rustic campsite within the Huron-Manistee National Forests system, Site 073D Au Sable River Camping offers basic amenities geared towards a self-sufficient and natural outdoor experience. The focus is on preserving the wilderness character of the area while providing designated spots for camping.

• Designated Campsite: Site 073D is an officially recognized and marked individual campsite, providing a specific area for camping, which helps manage use and minimize environmental impact.
• Fire Ring with Grate: A key feature noted by reviewers is the presence of a bonfire ring equipped with a grate for cooking. This is a crucial amenity for preparing meals and staying warm in a rustic setting.
• Natural Firewood Availability: Campers will find "plenty of dead downed trees to use as firewood" within the site's vicinity, though bringing an axe/saw is recommended for processing.
• Spacious Layout: The site is described as "pretty big open," capable of accommodating "multiple tents with several cars and still have room," making it excellent for groups or families who desire ample space.
• River Access (Challenging): While direct water access is noted as a "very steep slope/cliff" (approximately 100ft), the reviewer mentions a "rope we attached to help aid climbing up and down it." Once at the bottom, the "water access is super nice with comfy sandy floor. Great for swimming."
• 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 typically required for these primitive campsites, ensuring proper management and user tracking. No permit is required outside of this season, but sites are not actively maintained in winter.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Campers are responsible for packing out all trash and waste, leaving no trace of their visit. This includes human waste, for which campers should be prepared with appropriate methods (e.g., catholes or portable toilets).

It is important to reiterate that, as a primitive site, Site 073D does NOT offer amenities such as vault toilets, potable water pumps, picnic tables (beyond possibly one rustic version), or maintained facilities found in more developed campgrounds. Campers must be fully self-sufficient with water, sanitation, and other needs.

• Generous Space: This is a significant highlight. The site's "pretty big open" nature allows for "multiple tents with several cars" and still offers "room," making it ideal for larger groups, families, or those simply desiring more personal space.
• Excellent Forest Setting: The campground provides a rich forest immersion with a "good mix of sun and shade" from the trees, offering a tranquil and authentic Michigan woods experience.
• Fire Ring with Grate: The presence of a bonfire ring with a cooking grate is a major convenience for preparing meals over an open fire, enhancing the traditional camping feel.
• Abundant Natural Firewood: The availability of "plenty of dead downed trees to use as firewood" is a valuable feature, reducing the need to haul in large quantities of wood (though processing tools are recommended).
• Beautiful River Bottom for Swimming: Despite the challenging access, once at the river, the "super nice with comfy sandy floor" water access is "Great for swimming," offering a refreshing escape on warm Michigan days.
• Secluded Feel (Despite Road): Even with a road nearby, its infrequent use ("a couple cars drive by every few hours") maintains a sense of seclusion and peace, allowing campers to truly disconnect.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being within the Huron-Manistee National Forest, the site provides ample chances to observe local wildlife, from various bird species to deer and other forest creatures, enhancing the wilderness appeal.
• Rustic Charm: For campers who prioritize a genuine, back-to-basics outdoor adventure, the primitive nature of Site 073D is a feature itself, promoting self-reliance and a deeper connection with nature.

Site 073D Au Sable River Camping, as a primitive campsite managed by either the U.S. Forest Service or Michigan DNR, does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might. The pricing structure is standardized to ensure affordable public access to these natural resources.

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

• Camping Fees: Primitive single sites along the Au Sable River generally have a modest per-night fee, often around $10.00. These fees are set to support the maintenance and management of the forest and its recreational opportunities.
• Permit Requirement: From May 15 to September 10, a camping permit is usually required for these primitive campsites. While not a "promotion," understanding and obtaining this permit is crucial for compliance with forest regulations and ensuring a smooth camping experience. Permits typically have a nominal cost or may be free.
• Recreation Passport (for State Forest Campgrounds): If Site 073D falls under a Michigan State Forest Campground designation (some Au Sable River sites are managed by the state), a Michigan Recreation Passport would be required for vehicle entry to the general area. This annual pass offers exceptional value for Michiganders who frequently visit state parks and forest campgrounds across the state, providing access to a vast network of recreational areas.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, permit requirements, and any specific regulations for primitive camping on the Au Sable River, it is always recommended to check the official Huron-Manistee National Forests website or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website, or contact the relevant ranger district directly. The inherent affordability and the unparalleled natural experience are the primary "offers" of camping at Site 073D.

For specific details about Site 073D Au Sable River Camping, or for general inquiries regarding primitive camping along the Au Sable River within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, it is best to contact the relevant ranger district. Since the site is in Oscoda Township, the Huron Shores Ranger Station is the primary contact point.

• Address (General Area): Oscoda Township, MI 48750, USA (This is a general area; specific GPS coordinates for individual primitive sites may vary and are often best confirmed with the forest service or detailed forest maps.)
• Huron Shores Ranger Station (Managing Unit for this area): 5761 N. Skeel Road, Oscoda, MI 48750
• Phone: (989) 739-0728 (Huron Shores Ranger Station)
• General National Forest Information: (989) 362-8961 (Often listed for Au Sable River Camping on Recreation.gov or general inquiries).
• Website: For comprehensive information and maps, 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 campground details, as some Au Sable River sites are managed by the state.

It is highly recommended to call the ranger station ahead of your visit to confirm current conditions, accessibility, fire restrictions, and any permit requirements, especially for primitive sites which can be more susceptible to environmental changes and require self-sufficiency.

Site 073D Au Sable River Camping offers a compelling and highly suitable option for Michigan locals seeking a genuine, spacious, and rustic outdoor adventure. Its appeal lies in its ability to provide a true escape into the wilderness without being entirely inaccessible, making it a practical choice for various types of campers.

For Michigan families, groups of friends, or individuals who value ample space and privacy, the "pretty big open" nature of Site 073D is a major draw. It comfortably accommodates multiple tents and vehicles, allowing for a comfortable group camping experience, as highlighted by a reviewer. This makes it ideal for creating lasting memories in a serene forest setting.

Despite the "very steep slope/cliff" to the water access, the clear description and the helpful detail about a "rope we attached to help aid climbing up and down it" inform campers exactly what to expect. For those prepared for this challenge, the reward is a "super nice with comfy sandy floor" water access that is "Great for swimming." This transparent approach helps locals determine if the site aligns with their camping style and physical capabilities, allowing them to fully appreciate its unique features, particularly for swimming rather than kayak launching.

Furthermore, the presence of a bonfire ring with a grate and abundant natural firewood resources speaks to the traditional Michigan camping experience. It invites campers to embrace the simple joys of outdoor living, from cooking over an open fire to gathering around a crackling bonfire under a vast Michigan sky. The mix of sun and shade provides comfort, and the generally quiet road nearby maintains the sense of seclusion Michiganders often seek in their forest retreats.

In essence, Site 073D is perfect for the local who understands and appreciates the nuances of primitive camping. It offers a chance to reconnect with nature, engage in traditional outdoor activities, and enjoy the vast, beautiful landscapes that define Michigan’s forests and rivers, all within an accessible yet wonderfully wild setting.