South Branch Campground

For Michiganders seeking an authentic and tranquil outdoor experience, South Branch Campground in Grayling offers an unparalleled escape. Nestled along the serene South Branch of the Au Sable River, this rustic trail camp is a hidden gem, celebrated by visitors for its exceptional peace and quiet. Unlike some of the busier riverside campgrounds, South Branch provides a more secluded atmosphere, allowing campers to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. It’s a dream destination for anglers, paddlers, hikers, and equestrian enthusiasts, providing direct access to some of the state's most pristine recreational waterways and trails. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the calming embrace of the forest and the gentle flow of the river, making it an ideal spot to unwind, fish for trout, paddle through tranquil waters, or explore scenic pathways. South Branch Campground embodies the quiet charm of Michigan's wilderness, promising a refreshing and memorable outdoor adventure for all who visit.

South Branch Campground is located in Grayling, MI 49738, USA, specifically situated along the South Branch of the Au Sable River. This prime location places it within the heart of a renowned recreational area, particularly famous for its fly-fishing and paddling opportunities. For Michigan residents, accessing this rustic retreat typically involves a picturesque drive through the state's beautiful forested landscapes. It is generally located approximately 14 miles southeast of Grayling via M-72 and Canoe Harbor Road, or about 9.2 miles east of Grayling via M-72 and then South Branch Road. The campground's setting within the Huron-Manistee National Forests ensures a secluded feel, while still being within a reasonable driving distance for many. Its proximity to the Mason Tract, a significant special management area, and its direct access to the Shore-to-Shore Trail make it a strategic basecamp for extended outdoor exploration. While offering a sense of wilderness, the campground remains accessible, allowing Michiganders to easily reach this slice of natural paradise and immediately begin their adventures on the river or trails.

• Rustic Campsites: South Branch Campground offers spacious, rustic campsites designed for tents and small trailers (up to 25 feet). These sites typically feature a picnic table and a fire ring, providing the basic necessities for a comfortable outdoor stay. There are 41 sites available for tent and small trailer use, ensuring a good number of options for campers.
• Vault Toilets: For restroom facilities, the campground provides well-maintained vault toilets. Reviewers consistently praise their cleanliness, a key factor for comfort in a rustic camping setting. Some sources indicate there are three sets of vault toilets within the group site area.
• Hand-Pump Well for Drinking Water: Potable water is available from a hand-pump well. This traditional water source adds to the rustic charm, though campers should be prepared for its manual operation and potential for "rusty" or "iron tasting" water, as noted in general descriptions of similar wells in the region. Some group sites may have an electric water pump requiring a 5,000-watt generator (not provided).
• No Showers or Electrical Hookups: In line with its rustic nature, South Branch Campground does not offer showers or electrical hookups at individual sites. This contributes to the quiet, off-grid experience.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Individual campsites at South Branch Campground typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are generally not available. This offers flexibility but also suggests arriving early during peak seasons to secure a spot. Group sites may be reservable via Recreation.gov.
• Garbage Bins: The campground usually provides garbage bins, allowing campers to dispose of their waste responsibly and help maintain the cleanliness of the forest environment.
• Picket Posts (Equestrian): For equestrian campers, some sites, particularly within the larger group area, may offer picket posts for securing horses, making it convenient for those utilizing the nearby horse trails.

• Premier Fly-Fishing Destination: South Branch Campground is situated in "the BEST fly-fishing part of the AuSable River along the Mason Tract." Anglers can pursue wild brook and brown trout, with larger brown trout reaching 20 inches or more. The "Gear Restricted Stream" regulations ensure a quality fishing experience.
• Exceptional Canoeing and Paddling: The campground offers "great canoeing from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge," providing a scenic and relatively uncrowded ~4-hour float if not paddling much. There is direct carry-in access to the South Branch of the Au Sable River within the campground, with four paddle-in sites also available.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: A consistent highlight from visitors is the "peace and quiet" found at this "nice quiet trail camp." It’s known for being "quieter than other campgrounds on the AuSable River," making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.
• Spacious Campsites with Privacy: Reviewers praise the "great spacious campground sites" that often feature natural tree coverage (oak and pine) for "pretty good privacy in between."
• Access to Mason Tract Pathway: The campground provides direct access to the Mason Tract Pathway, an 8.7-mile trail offering excellent opportunities for hiking, and in winter, cross-country skiing, paralleling the scenic Au Sable River. This pathway is part of the broader Shore-to-Shore Trail.
• Equestrian-Friendly: As a "trail camp," South Branch accommodates equestrian campers, with some areas offering facilities like picket posts, providing convenient access to the 240-mile Michigan Shore-to-Shore Horseback Riding and Hiking Trail.
• Immersive Natural Setting: Nestled within a stand of oak and pine trees, the campground provides a true rustic charm, allowing campers to experience a deep connection with Michigan's beautiful forest environment and wildlife.

As a rustic campground located within the Huron-Manistee National Forests and managed by the Michigan DNR, South Branch Campground typically does not have a direct, continuously staffed phone line on-site. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees (which may be around $20 per night, with a Recreation Passport required for vehicle entry), operating seasons (often May to late September/early October), conditions, and any specific regulations, it is best to contact the relevant Michigan DNR office or the Huron-Manistee National Forests Mio Ranger District.

Address: Grayling, MI 49738, USA

For general inquiries or to verify details, you might reach out to the Grayling DNR Management Unit or the Mio Ranger District. A general contact number for the Grayling management unit that covers some state forest campgrounds is (989) 348-7068 (Note: This is a general office number and not directly for the campground). It's always advisable to check the Michigan DNR website or Recreation.gov for the most current information, especially for first-come, first-served site availability and any alerts that might impact your visit to this serene Au Sable River campground.

For Michigan residents, South Branch Campground in Grayling represents the quintessential Northern Michigan outdoor experience, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and recreational opportunity right in their backyard. Its location on the pristine South Branch of the Au Sable River, especially within the highly regarded Mason Tract, makes it an unparalleled destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts and paddlers. The ability to access "the BEST fly-fishing part" of the river and enjoy "great canoeing from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge" directly from the campground is a significant draw, promising authentic and rewarding aquatic adventures. The campground’s celebrated "peace and quiet" offers a much-needed respite from daily life, appealing to those who truly seek to "disconnect" and immerse themselves in nature. The spacious, private, and rustic campsites, complemented by well-maintained vault toilets, provide a comfortable yet genuine camping experience that allows Michiganders to truly appreciate their state's natural beauty without the distractions of over-developed facilities. Furthermore, the direct access to the Mason Tract Pathway and the broader Shore-to-Shore Trail system opens up endless possibilities for hiking and equestrian exploration, catering to a diverse range of outdoor passions. South Branch Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a cherished natural resource that offers Michiganders a unique opportunity to engage with the wild heart of their state. Its rustic charm, coupled with its prime location for world-class fishing, paddling, and trail activities, makes it a highly recommended and truly suitable destination for locals seeking an authentic and serene Michigan outdoor adventure.

South Branch Campground

Grayling, MI 49738, USA