Mio Au Sable River

The Mio access point provides entry to the Au Sable River, a renowned Michigan "blue ribbon trout stream" that flows through a scenic 55-mile corridor in Alcona and Iosco Counties. This location serves as a gateway to the Au Sable River Dispersed Camping system, which features 102 rustic campsites spread along the river shoreline—making it ideal for multi-day paddling and camping trips. The river in this section offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in a semi-primitive setting.

Boaters and paddlers using this access should note that a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for motor vehicles accessing state boating facilities. For additional nearby access options, the Whirlpool Au Sable River Access (located 4 miles west of Oscoda) offers paved parking and improved facilities including a boardwalk to the river. Several campgrounds operate in the area, including Au Sable Loop Campground and Chimney Loop Campground, both offering reservations. For specific details about current conditions, seasonal availability, and camping reservations at Au Sable River Dispersed Camping, contact 989-362-8961.

Overview
AuSable River Dispersed Camping is a unique series of 102 individually designated single-family campsites on a 55-mile stretch of the lovely AuSable River. All campsites are within Alcona and Iosco Counties in Michigan.

These rustic sites are divided into sections near Alcona Pond, the AuSable Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized Area, Loud Pond, Five Channels Pond, Cooke Pond, Foote Pond and...

Overview
AuSable River Dispersed Camping is a unique series of 102 individually designated single-family campsites on a 55-mile stretch of the lovely AuSable River. All campsites are within Alcona and Iosco Counties in Michigan.

These rustic sites are divided into sections near Alcona Pond, the AuSable Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized Area, Loud Pond, Five Channels Pond, Cooke Pond, Foote Pond and Lower Ausable. Each are ideal for family camping, with opportunities for fly fishing, swimming, canoeing and bird watching.Recreation
Both river and lake fishing are available for perch, bass and pike walleye. One recommended spot is the Whirlpool Angler access point. All sites are also near the River Road National Scenic Byway, which offers wonderful views of the river valley.

The campground has boat-in camping, and canoe rentals are available in Glennie, Hale, Mio and Oscoda.Facilities
All sites are primitive with no drinking water, toilets or trash removal. Campers are expected to bring plenty of water, portable toilets and garbage bags. Parking aprons are dirt or gravel.Natural Features
Campsites sit on bluffs that range from five to 300 feet above the waterline of the lower AuSable River. Depending on the site, access to the river may be difficult due to steep or eroding slopes.
The AuSable River meanders across 138 miles of Michigan and flows into the great lake, Lake Huron.

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