Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground

For Michiganders, the call of the wild often leads to the tranquil beauty of our state's vast forests and pristine waterways. If your ideal outdoor escape involves the soothing sounds of a flowing river, the promise of excellent fishing, and direct access to renowned hiking trails, then Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground is a destination that should be high on your list. Nestled along the South Branch of the Au Sable River, near Grayling, this rustic campground offers an authentic and serene experience for those who truly wish to unplug and immerse themselves in nature.

Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground is a beloved spot for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly fly fisherman, kayakers, canoeists, and hikers. It's known for its commitment to maintaining a clean and respectful environment, providing essential amenities without compromising the natural charm that makes state forest campgrounds so special. Unlike more developed sites, Canoe Harbor embraces its rustic nature, offering a peaceful retreat where the focus is firmly on the natural surroundings and the activities they inspire.

This campground serves as a perfect base camp for exploring the iconic Mason Tract, a protected area along the Au Sable River renowned for its scenic beauty and exceptional trout fishing. Whether you’re looking for a quick overnight stay during a paddling trip or a longer weekend getaway to explore the trails, Canoe Harbor provides a clean, quiet, and friendly atmosphere that caters specifically to those who appreciate Michigan’s untouched wilderness. It's not a party campground, but rather a haven for "outdoor lovers" seeking peace and an authentic connection with the environment.

Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground is conveniently located along the South Branch of the Au Sable River, approximately 14 miles southeast of Grayling, MI. The address provided, Grayling, MI 49738, USA, places it within Crawford County, a prime region for outdoor recreation in Northern Michigan. Access to the campground is typically via M-72 and Canoe Harbor Road, making it a relatively straightforward drive for Michiganders coming from various parts of the Lower Peninsula.

The accessibility of Canoe Harbor is a key feature for its appeal. While it offers a rustic and secluded feel, it remains well-connected enough for easy travel. The roads leading to the campground are generally suitable for both tents and small trailers, ensuring that a wide range of campers can reach this beautiful spot. Its proximity to Grayling means that essential supplies or services are not too far away, striking a good balance between wilderness immersion and practical convenience.

What truly enhances its location and accessibility is its direct connection to renowned natural features. As noted by visitors, "The hiking trail goes through the edge of the campground," specifically the Mason Tract Pathway, an 8.7-mile network of scenic trails. Furthermore, it offers "few access points on the Mason Tract" for fly fisherman and "4 sites down next to the river for kayakers/canoers," making it an ideal staging point for river adventures. This direct access to premier fishing waters and hiking trails makes Canoe Harbor exceptionally well-suited for Michiganders looking to fully engage with the Au Sable River's unique ecosystem.

Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground, as a rustic DNR-managed site, focuses on providing essential services that enable a traditional and self-sufficient camping experience. While it foregoes modern electrical hookups, it excels in maintaining clean, fundamental facilities. Based on customer reviews and Michigan DNR information, here are the services offered:

• Campsites: The campground offers a total of 41 sites suitable for tent and small trailer use. There are also 4 dedicated walk-in sites that can be accessed by a short hike or by canoe, specifically catering to paddlers on the Au Sable River.
• Vault Toilets: Consistently praised for being "clean outhouses" and "well stocked with toilet paper," these provide essential restroom facilities.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a hand-pump well, allowing campers to fill their water containers with "good tasting water."
• No Electrical Hookups: As a rustic campground, electricity is not available at the individual campsites. Campers must be self-sufficient in this regard.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations are taken. This allows for spontaneous trips but requires early arrival during peak seasons.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires.
• Carry-in Boat Access: Direct carry-in access points to the Au Sable River are available within the campground, ideal for kayaks and canoes.
• Self-Registration: Fees and registration procedures are posted at an information kiosk at the campground entrance.
• Waste Disposal: Designated areas for trash disposal are provided to help maintain cleanliness.
• Winter Camping: The campground is open year-round, although the campground and seasonal roads are not plowed in winter.
• Access to Hunting Land: Provides access to state land open to hunting, adhering to Michigan's hunting regulations.

Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground offers several features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Michiganders seeking a genuine outdoor experience:

• Direct Au Sable River Access: Its prime location along the South Branch of the Au Sable River is a major draw, offering excellent opportunities for fly fishing (known for brown, brook, and rainbow trout) and paddle sports.
• Mason Tract Pathway Trailhead: The campground provides direct access to the Mason Tract Pathway, an 8.7-mile scenic hiking and cross-country skiing trail that winds along the river, offering "stunning views and wildlife sightings."
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: It is explicitly noted as "not a party type campground" and offers a "nice quiet" environment, ideal for relaxation and connecting with nature.
• Clean Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the "very clean" bathhouses and well-maintained grounds, which significantly enhance the rustic camping experience.
• Walk-in/Paddle-in Sites: The presence of dedicated sites for kayakers/canoers or those preferring a short hike to their site adds a unique appeal for river adventurers.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Campsites are generally described as "spacious" and private, allowing campers to unwind in comfort.
• Abundant Wildlife: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, enhancing the immersive outdoor experience.
• Ideal for Fly Fisherman: Given its location on the Au Sable River and access points, it is a favored spot for trout fishing enthusiasts.
• Authentic Rustic Camping: For those who prefer a less developed, more traditional camping experience, Canoe Harbor delivers a true back-to-nature feel.

For general inquiries regarding Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground or other state forest campgrounds in Michigan, you can contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office that manages this area. While direct phone lines to individual rustic campgrounds are uncommon, the regional DNR office can provide valuable information.

Address: Grayling, MI 49738, USA (Located along the South Branch of the Au Sable River, 14 miles SE of Grayling via M-72 and Canoe Harbor Road).

Phone (North Higgins Lake State Park, which manages Canoe Harbor SFCG): (989) 821-6125

Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground is exceptionally suitable for locals across Michigan because it perfectly embodies the spirit of traditional Michigan outdoor recreation. For Michiganders who cherish the solitude of a peaceful forest and the allure of our pristine rivers, this campground offers an authentic and accessible escape. The direct access to the Mason Tract Pathway caters to avid hikers and cross-country skiers, while the multiple access points on the Au Sable River make it a dream destination for fly fishermen and paddlers. As one reviewer aptly stated, it's a "great state campground for many uses for outdoor lovers."

The consistent praise for "clean outhouses and good tasting water from the pump" addresses fundamental concerns for rustic camping, ensuring a comfortable stay despite the lack of electricity. This commitment to cleanliness, combined with its reputation as "not a party type campground," aligns with the preferences of Michiganders seeking a quiet, respectful environment for their outdoor pursuits. For those looking to truly unplug, listen to the sounds of nature, and engage in activities like trout fishing or paddling on one of Michigan's most beautiful rivers, Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an essential part of the genuine Michigan outdoor experience, inviting residents to return season after season for an unspoiled retreat.

Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground

Grayling, MI 49738, USA