Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground

Hello, fellow Michiganders! Are you yearning for a genuine escape into the unspoiled beauty of Northern Michigan, a place where the sounds of the river and the rustle of pines create the perfect soundtrack for relaxation? If a true immersion in nature, far from the constant demands of the digital world, is what you seek, then Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground in Luzerne, MI, is a destination that deserves your attention. As residents of our incredible Great Lakes State, we are blessed with vast natural landscapes, and among these, the tranquility and unique charm of a primitive campground like Parmalee Bridge offer a truly distinct experience.

Michigan’s diverse outdoor offerings range from bustling resorts to serene, undeveloped forest lands. Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground firmly belongs in the latter category, celebrating a "no nonsense primitive camping" approach. Our aim with this article is to provide you with a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this special place, drawing directly from available public information and the authentic feedback of fellow campers. This approach ensures you get an honest and inviting picture of what awaits you at this rustic gem.

What truly sets Parmalee Bridge apart, as highlighted by its visitors, is its stunning location directly on the Au Sable River. It's described as a "nice place to primitive camp," especially popular among those who "launched kayaks from Rainbow Bend campground and floated down to here." This makes it a fantastic hub for paddlers looking to explore the famed Au Sable. The campground offers "31 tent and small trailer sites," and importantly, it includes a "large canoe camping area" and "paddle-in campsites." This emphasis on river access and paddle-in options caters specifically to adventurers eager to experience Michigan's waterways firsthand.

However, it's worth noting the varied experiences regarding quietude. While some find it a "beautiful place to stop," one reviewer mentioned "Semis driving the road will make you think banshees are coming to get you" and suggested it's not always "quiet or peaceful" for sleeping. This honest feedback is important for setting expectations: while the natural setting is undeniable, occasional road noise may be a factor. Despite this, the presence of "a few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance," offers a convenient touch, a rare find for such a rustic location. The "very poor cell service" is also a notable feature, making it an ideal spot to truly disconnect.

We'll delve into the specifics of its location and unique accessibility, describe the type of services and features you can expect from a rustic state forest campground, and provide any available contact information. Finally, we'll explain why this particular campground is so well-suited for Michigan locals who desire an authentic, off-grid outdoor adventure. So, if the idea of secluded camping on a famous river, coupled with easy access to local trails and the chance to truly disconnect, sounds like your ideal getaway, read on to discover more about Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground, your next truly memorable Michigan outdoor experience.

Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground is located in Luzerne, MI 48636, USA, with a more precise address sometimes listed as Co. Rd. 489. This places it directly on the banks of the renowned Au Sable River within Michigan's state forest lands, a prime area for outdoor recreation in the Lower Peninsula.

Accessibility to Parmalee Bridge is straightforward by vehicle, though it offers different types of access within the campground itself. It provides sites for "tent and small trailer use" that are drive-in accessible. Crucially, it also features a "large canoe camping area" and designated "paddle-in campsites," making it a popular destination for those exploring the Au Sable River by watercraft. The campground is described as having "excellent river access for kayaking, canoeing, tubing and fishing," with a "gravel-and-sand boat launch" and carry-in access about 100 yards from the parking area down a set of stairs.

For Michiganders traveling from major cities, Parmalee Bridge is within a reasonable drive: approximately "1 hr 23 min from Traverse City," "1 hr 24 min from Bay City," and "1 hr 34 min from Saginaw." Its location also boasts practical conveniences for a rustic campground, with "a few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance," allowing campers to easily resupply. Furthermore, the campground is strategically positioned near "an abundance of nearby off-road vehicle trails," including the Kalkaska Route, and allows for ORV operation between the campground and trails, making it a hub for diverse outdoor activities. This combination of river access, trail proximity, and local conveniences makes it an attractive choice for many local adventurers.

• Rustic Campsites: Parmalee Bridge offers "rustic sites" for "tent and small trailer use." There are 7 such sites for drive-in campers, and also a large canoe camping area which includes a "paddle-in group site" with four fire pits and six picnic tables.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides "vault toilets" for restroom facilities, which are standard for state forest campgrounds.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a "hand-pump well." Reviews confirm a "functioning potable water pump."

• No Electrical Hookups: As a rustic campground, there is "no electrical available" at the campsites.

• No Reservations: Sites are available on a "first-come, first-served basis," meaning campers cannot reserve a spot in advance. It's recommended to arrive early during peak season.

• Trash Disposal: A "dumpster" is available on-site for trash disposal.

• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a fire ring and a picnic table.

• River Access: The campground provides a "gravel-and-sand boat launch" and "carry-in access" for easy entry to the Au Sable River for paddling and fishing.

• Prime Au Sable River Access: A significant highlight is its direct and excellent access to the Au Sable River, renowned for "kayaking, canoeing, tubing and fishing" (especially trout, bass, and pike). It's a popular launch or take-out point for river trips, including being part of longer paddle-in routes.

• Paddle-in Campsites: The dedicated "canoe camping area" and "paddle-in/walk-in group site" offer a unique experience for river adventurers, providing secluded riverside spots.

• Rustic and Secluded Atmosphere (mostly): For those seeking a primitive experience, the campground offers a "nice place to primitive camp" with sites "tucked beneath towering red pines." The lack of cell service contributes to an off-grid feel.

• Proximity to ORV Trails: The campground is located near "an abundance of nearby off-road vehicle trails," including the Kalkaska Route, making it a great base for ORV enthusiasts.

• Local Convenience: Unusually for a rustic campground, there are "a few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance," providing easy access to supplies like "firewood" and other necessities.

• Trout Fishing: The Manistee River (and implicitly the Au Sable, given the context of state forest campgrounds) is known for "excellent trout fishing," appealing to anglers.

• Hunting Access: The campground provides access to state land open to hunting, though firearm hunting is not allowed within 450 feet of an occupied dwelling.

Address: Luzerne, MI 48636, USA (often listed with Co. Rd. 489)

Phone: (989) 473-2258 (This phone number is associated with the Grayling Management Unit of the DNR, which oversees this campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 989-473-2258

Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground in Luzerne, Michigan, is an exceptionally suitable destination for residents of our Great Lakes State, particularly those who cherish a rustic, river-centric outdoor adventure. Its prime location directly on the famed Au Sable River makes it a cornerstone for water-based recreation, a beloved pastime for many Michiganders. For locals who enjoy kayaking, canoeing, tubing, or fly fishing, Parmalee Bridge offers unparalleled access, serving as an ideal launch or take-out point for river trips. This direct connection to one of Michigan’s most iconic waterways is a significant draw, allowing for immersive experiences that truly highlight the state's natural beauty.

What truly distinguishes Parmalee Bridge and makes it ideal for local adventurers is its commitment to primitive camping. In an era where many campgrounds are increasingly developed, Parmalee Bridge provides a "no nonsense primitive camping" experience. This means basic amenities like vault toilets and hand-pump water, but also a priceless sense of seclusion and connection with nature. The "very poor cell service" further enhances this appeal, providing a genuine opportunity to unplug from the digital world and fully immerse oneself in the tranquility of the forest. While some road noise from passing semis has been noted, for many seeking true rustic camping, the benefits of the natural setting outweigh this occasional disruption.

The versatility of camping options, including both drive-in sites for tents and small trailers and dedicated "paddle-in campsites," caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. This flexibility ensures that whether you're embarking on a multi-day paddle trip or simply looking for a quiet spot to pitch a tent, Parmalee Bridge has a place for you. The fact that it's first-come, first-served adds an element of spontaneous adventure that appeals to many locals.

Furthermore, the unexpected convenience of "a few stores nearby, one within easy walking distance," provides a practical benefit not often found at such rustic sites, allowing for easy resupply. Coupled with direct access to "lots and lots of trails for 4 wheel exploring," the campground acts as a central hub for diverse outdoor activities. For Michiganders who value the raw beauty of state forest camping, the thrill of river adventures, and the peace of an off-grid escape, Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground is not just a place to stay; it's a cherished local spot that offers an authentic and memorable Northern Michigan experience.

Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground

Luzerne, MI 48636, USA