South Branch Campground

For many Michiganders, the allure of the great outdoors is intrinsically linked to the serene flow of a pristine river or the quiet rustle of leaves in a dense forest. Nestled in the heart of this natural splendor, near Grayling, Michigan, lies South Branch Campground – a true gem for those seeking a tranquil and authentic camping experience. This campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the peace and quiet of Northern Michigan's wilderness, making it a highly recommended spot for local residents looking to escape the everyday hustle.

South Branch Campground is celebrated by visitors for its remarkably quiet atmosphere and its direct access to some of Michigan's most beloved natural assets. It’s a place where the rhythmic sounds of the South Branch of the AuSable River provide a natural soundtrack to your stay, offering an unparalleled setting for relaxation and outdoor adventure. Unlike busier campgrounds, South Branch allows for a deeper connection with nature, fostering a sense of calm and rejuvenation that only Michigan’s wild spaces can provide. Whether your passion lies in the art of fly-fishing, paddling down a scenic river, or simply unwinding in a truly peaceful environment, South Branch Campground stands out as a prime destination for a memorable Michigan getaway.

South Branch Campground is located in Grayling, MI 49738, USA, deep within the scenic Huron-Manistee National Forests. Its exact address is often listed simply as Grayling, MI, but it is situated along the South Branch of the AuSable River, a renowned area for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is also directly adjacent to the famous Mason Tract, an 11-mile point-to-point trail connecting Chase Bridge and Smith Bridge, making it a prime location for hikers, equestrians, and paddlers.

Access to South Branch Campground is typically via well-maintained forest roads. While it offers a rustic and secluded feel, it is not excessively difficult to reach from major routes. For those approaching from the south, traveling north on M-65, then turning west onto Rollways Road (approximately 6 miles north of Hale), and continuing for about 3 miles will lead you to the campground entrance. The journey to the campground itself provides a delightful preview of the natural beauty that awaits, winding through stands of oak and pine. Its proximity to Grayling means that essential supplies and services are within a reasonable driving distance, ensuring convenience for campers. The campground is open seasonally, generally from early May to late September, aligning with Michigan's best camping weather. This combination of seclusion and accessibility makes South Branch Campground a highly desirable location for Michiganders seeking a genuine rustic camping experience.

• Rustic Campsites: South Branch Campground offers spacious individual campsites designed for a rustic experience, providing a true immersion in nature. There are 21 single sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, plus a group site that can be reserved.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are consistently praised by visitors for being "pretty well kept" and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay despite the rustic setting.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available via a hand pump. The group site also has an electric water pump, though campers need to bring their own 5,000-watt generator to operate it.

• Campfire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with a campfire ring, perfect for evening fires, and a picnic table for outdoor dining.

• Trash Bins: A garbage bin is available at the group site, and generally trash receptacles are provided to help campers maintain a clean environment.

• Equestrian Facilities: The campground is particularly well-suited for equestrian campers, with picket posts available. Priority is given to campers with horses at the group site, highlighting its role as a key point on the Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding and Hiking Trail.

• River Access: Direct access to the South Branch of the AuSable River provides excellent opportunities for fly-fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, with convenient carry-in access points.

• Exceptional Peace and Quiet: A standout feature highlighted by many reviewers is the profound sense of peace and quiet. This makes it an ideal retreat for those looking to genuinely unplug and escape urban noise, often described as "quieter than other campgrounds on the AuSable River."

• Premier Fly-Fishing: The campground is located on the South Branch of the AuSable River, specifically along the "BEST fly-fishing part" of the river within the Mason Tract. This makes it a highly sought-after destination for anglers.

• Canoeing and Kayaking Paradise: The South Branch of the AuSable River offers fantastic opportunities for paddling, with a popular ~4-hour canoeing trip from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge accessible directly from or very near the campground.

• Mason Tract Pathway Access: Campers have direct access to the Mason Tract 11-mile point-to-point trail, perfect for hiking and exploring the beautiful surrounding forest.

• Spacious Sites: Reviewers frequently mention the "great spacious campground sites," providing ample room and privacy between campers.

• Rustic Charm: The campground embraces a rustic appeal, offering essential facilities without modern amenities like showers or electric hookups, which appeals to campers seeking a more traditional and immersive outdoor experience.

• National Forest Setting: Being situated within the Huron-Manistee National Forests means campers are surrounded by diverse ecosystems, including oak and pine trees, enhancing the natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

As a U.S. Forest Service campground, South Branch Campground typically operates with standardized fees rather than frequent commercial promotions or special offers. The single sites are generally offered on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning there is no reservation system for these individual spots, and thus no booking discounts. The fee for a single site is reported to be around $15.00 per night, which is a highly affordable rate for a tranquil and amenity-rich natural setting in Michigan.

For the group site, reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. There is a one-time reservation fee of $10.00 for the group site. While there aren't traditional "promotions," the consistent affordability and the exceptional value offered by its prime location for fly-fishing, canoeing, and hiking serve as an ongoing draw for Michiganders. It is always recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Huron-Manistee National Forests or Recreation.gov for the most current fee information and any updates on operational status.

For specific inquiries about South Branch Campground, including current conditions, operational dates, and any alerts, you can typically contact the relevant U.S. Forest Service Ranger District. While direct phone numbers for the campground itself are not widely publicized, general information can often be obtained through:

Address: Grayling, MI 49738, USA

Phone (Huron Shores Ranger Station - general information for the area): (989) 739-0728

For group site reservations: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov)

Since individual sites are first-come, first-served, it's advisable to have alternative plans, especially during peak seasons, though reviews suggest it’s often quieter than other AuSable campgrounds.

For Michiganders, South Branch Campground represents an unparalleled opportunity to experience the raw, quiet beauty that defines our state's natural landscape. Its primary appeal lies in its exceptional tranquility; as many locals attest, it offers a peaceful respite rarely found in more heavily trafficked areas, truly living up to its reputation as a "nice quiet trail camp." This makes it perfect for those seeking genuine solitude and a deep connection with nature.

Beyond the peace, the campground's strategic location along the South Branch of the AuSable River, specifically within the renowned Mason Tract, is a huge draw. For avid fly-fishers, this is considered the "BEST" part of the river, offering world-class trout fishing right from your campsite. Paddlers will revel in the ideal canoeing and kayaking conditions, with a picturesque four-hour journey from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge readily available. Hikers and horseback riders can directly access the Michigan Shore-to-Shore Trail, opening up miles of exploration. While it features rustic facilities like vault toilets and no showers, these contribute to its authentic charm and are consistently noted as well-maintained. The spacious sites provide ample privacy, reinforcing the sense of being truly "away from it all." For Michigan residents, South Branch Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's an accessible, affordable, and highly recommended gateway to some of the state's most pristine outdoor activities, promising rejuvenation and unforgettable experiences in the heart of our beloved forests and rivers.