The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Au Gres, Michigan

Set up camp along the rivers near Au Gres, where over 540 riverfront spots let you pitch a tent or park your camper just steps from the water. Average nights run around $40, but you’ll find options dipping to $30 if you hunt around. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and rinse off in on-site showers—these are standard perks at most sites. Swimming, wildlife-watching, and even snow sports keep things interesting year-round. Locals swear by The Crow’s Nest (111 reviews), Boondock Ridge (110 reviews), and Elysium Heritage Farm (83 reviews) for relaxed riverside stays with plenty of space to unwind.

97% (544) • 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Au Gres

"Elysium Heritage Farm"

1. "Elysium Heritage Farm"

100%

(157)

21mi from Au Gres · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, emu, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property. The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay. It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit. By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$24

/ night

WaterFront Saginaw Bay - w/kayaks

2. WaterFront Saginaw Bay - w/kayaks

100%

(16)

32mi from Au Gres · 1 site

Waterfront RV Site on the Quanicassee River (at the mouth of Saginaw Bay) Enjoy direct riverfront access with a private deck and dock — great for fishing, watching sunsets, and relaxing while spotting wildlife. Included at no extra cost: Kayaks - Canoe - Two bicycles Site amenities: Fire pit Picnic table Park grill 50AMP / 30AMP electric Water hookup WiFi Frankenmuth, Bay City, and Saginaw are all within 35 minutes for shopping, dining, and attractions. A peaceful spot with easy conveniences and plenty of ways to enjoy the water and outdoors. This standout site combines direct riverfront living, thoughtful amenities, included extras, and a peaceful yet accessible setting – the perfect base for your Michigan adventure or extended stay. Ideal for anglers, nature lovers, sunset chasers, and anyone seeking a serene escape with modern conveniences. Ready to experience riverside bliss? Book your spot today!

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$45

/ night

The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

3. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

99%

(148)

33mi from Au Gres · 2 sites

This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. No discharge of firearms is allowed on this property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest. We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$65

/ night

Huron-Manistee National Forests

4. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%

(29)

National forest 40mi from Au Gres · 938 sites

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Port Crescent State Park

5. Port Crescent State Park

100%

(4)

State park 32mi from Au Gres · 145 sites

Three miles of sandy shores await campers along Michigan’s thumb.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Boondock Ridge

6. Boondock Ridge

98%

(161)

34mi from Au Gres · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private. Beautiful river view and access. Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$34

/ night

Camp Bear Paw LLC

7. Camp Bear Paw LLC

99%

(87)

35mi from Au Gres · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish. You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early! Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water. Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well. Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking. There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising. Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property. Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon! Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used. We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details. Look for an amazing treehouse  this spring!!!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$45

/ night

River Daze

8. River Daze

100%

(48)

40mi from Au Gres · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Campsites are all riverfront along the Tobacco River. Country feel within blocks of town. Ross Lake/Beach, the remodeled Beaverton Tavern, park, an ice cream shop and splash park are all located within a long walk or short drive. We are close to Gladwin, Ross Lake, ORV trails and the Juicy Bone. The river flows into Wixom Lake which is anticipated to be back in 2025. Sandy beach with river access . You can access the river from our canoe portage on the property. Good fishing, swimming or just hanging out. You can also canoe, kayak or tube beautiful Tobacco River or sandy Cedar River. Picnic tables and fire pits are located throughout the property. Good music, games, sing a longs. Hike through the trails to get to the the enchanted cedar forest which is all located in the campground. We have an outdoor 250 inch screen where we project movies, concerts, games, interactive dance videos. For kids and adults, everyone leaves with a smile.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$40

/ night

Verity acres

9. Verity acres

97%

(19)

41mi from Au Gres · 1 site · Tent, RV

160 acres of private woodland. Pitch your tent, or park your camper under the Pines or under the oaks along a nice ridge. Enjoy walking camping hiking with no neighbors on private property can also walk to state land for miles and miles of hiking opportunities. Lots of wildlife to view- deer, raccoons, fox coyotes. Listen to the beautiful coyotes howling at night.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$27

/ night

Rains Ranch

10. Rains Ranch

100%

(16)

47mi from Au Gres · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

80 relaxing acres of Ahhhhh!!! and mixed terrain. Abundant wild life including bald eagles. Secluded sites and picturesque ponds. Many activities near by. Hiking, bicycling, kayaking, canoeing, ORV and snowmobile trails. Short drive to Lake Huron as well as the Ausable River! but at the same time you’re in the middle of nowhere where YOU want to be!!! Learn more about this land: We have private sites available for small groups. Easily traversed mowed trails. Clear secluded campsites in the Huron national forest. Great for walking and seeing wildlife. Clear night skies. Great for stargazing or seeing the Northern Lights. If you're looking for that diamond in the rough, look no more!!! It's HERE at Rains Ranch!!!

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$32

/ night

Dingle Dangle Acres

11. Dingle Dangle Acres

13mi from Au Gres · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging

Small 2-bedroom cabin on 36 acres, perfect for hiking and nature watching. The bedrooms have split king beds that can be configured as a king or two twins. Fully stocked kitchen. Close to the Rifle and Au Gres Rivers for canoeing, and Tawas State Park for access to Lake Huron. Secondary heating is provided by a pellet stove, which is easy to use and adds lovely ambience. When renting the cabin, additional land is available for tent and RV camping. Cute and cozy!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

The Magic Forest

12. The Magic Forest

100%

(1)

28mi from Au Gres · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

The Magic Forest is a beautiful 25 acre property that is a holistic healing center centered around personal and spiritual growth. We tend to our land with respect and care and ask that you do too. We trust you will feel right at home in the peace of our woods. The Magic Forest is located right across the street from the 4400 acre Rifle River State Recreation area. You can access the park across the street through the canoe port right on the Rifle River, with easy access to fishing, canoeing/kayaking, and trails. Kayak and canoe rental companies are nearby, as well as many lakes in the area with excellent fishing. We have tent sites available, pull-in RV or camper sites, and very soon will have several tiny homes ready for lodging. Special accommodations can be made for those wanting to kayak or canoe, utilize the wood-fired cedar barrel sauna, or have a campfire. Please contact directly for details. You can expect to hear the bird song throughout the day, and many other woodland critters as we are surrounded by state land, and are located on a federally protected watershed. It's about as clean as it gets! The area is traversed enough where we do not experience a population of bears or other predators one may be wary of in the woods. Whether you are a hiker, birder, forager, hunter, fisherman, dirt biking, or seeking a serene place to rejuvenate yourself-you have found a location that offers activities for every season. We do host events on the land such as yoga, sound meditations, retreats, and more. If you happen to stay while an event is occurring, there is a possibility you may be able to join during your stay. Contact directly for details. Rose City is 10 minutes down the road with access to all general food amenities you may need, as well as restaurants. West Branch is about 25 minutes away with the big box stores as well. Just down the road is Kenyon's Lakeside Resort, a historic Michigan Landmark and excellent restaurant with good food, music, and more. Another excellent must-visit just down the road is Lovewell's corner store, one of the best camp stores (and more) around!! We would love to host you at the Magic Forest and provide a place for you to relax, feel safe, and be at home.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Rosemary Pines

13. Rosemary Pines

100%

(2)

30mi from Au Gres · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

This home was built by my grandparents back in the 40’s he was a military man she was a homemaker! We lived around the kitchen with smoked fish and freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies! At one time my uncles horse lived here and many of my grandfathers chicken! This home and land has lots of love surrounding it! There are many blueberry farms and amazing fishing spots! I can hand out brochures when you arrive. I also have a relationship with a local fishing charter if you would like to do a fish and fry!Learn more about this land:Woods and moss with a pond. We offer camping (must bring tents) on the property. It’s optional bathrooms and showers, grill chairs and table. We are a mile from the beach and we can drop you at the canoe rental in town. You can choose to only camp or to camp and use toilet and shower with code access. . We offer s’more sets for 2 people package in garage in refrigerator if wanted. We also have in town canoeing local and beach side fire pits along Lake Huron. We’re close to Lumberman monument which is a beautiful place to hike and see the fall colors. We’re also not a far drive from the Mackinac Bridge. You can engage in water, beaches, canoeing or just sit by the bonfire and eat s’mores! The property is 5 acres with a home located on site and someone will be available if needed. We do have dense pines with bugs so bring bug spray!

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

$80

/ night

Rustic campsite

14. Rustic campsite

80%

(5)

37mi from Au Gres · 1 site · Tent, RV

83%

(29)

National forest 40mi from Au Gres · 938 sites

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

Pets

Toilets

13mi from Au Gres · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging

Small 2-bedroom cabin on 36 acres, perfect for hiking and nature watching. The bedrooms have split king beds that can be configured as a king or two twins. Fully stocked kitchen. Close to the Rifle and Au Gres Rivers for canoeing, and Tawas State Park for access to Lake Huron. Secondary heating is provided by a pellet stove, which is easy to use and adds lovely ambience. When renting the cabin, additional land is available for tent and RV camping. Cute and cozy!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

The Magic Forest

12. The Magic Forest

100%

(1)

28mi from Au Gres · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

The Magic Forest is a beautiful 25 acre property that is a holistic healing center centered around personal and spiritual growth. We tend to our land with respect and care and ask that you do too. We trust you will feel right at home in the peace of our woods. The Magic Forest is located right across the street from the 4400 acre Rifle River State Recreation area. You can access the park across the street through the canoe port right on the Rifle River, with easy access to fishing, canoeing/kayaking, and trails. Kayak and canoe rental companies are nearby, as well as many lakes in the area with excellent fishing. We have tent sites available, pull-in RV or camper sites, and very soon will have several tiny homes ready for lodging. Special accommodations can be made for those wanting to kayak or canoe, utilize the wood-fired cedar barrel sauna, or have a campfire. Please contact directly for details. You can expect to hear the bird song throughout the day, and many other woodland critters as we are surrounded by state land, and are located on a federally protected watershed. It's about as clean as it gets! The area is traversed enough where we do not experience a population of bears or other predators one may be wary of in the woods. Whether you are a hiker, birder, forager, hunter, fisherman, dirt biking, or seeking a serene place to rejuvenate yourself-you have found a location that offers activities for every season. We do host events on the land such as yoga, sound meditations, retreats, and more. If you happen to stay while an event is occurring, there is a possibility you may be able to join during your stay. Contact directly for details. Rose City is 10 minutes down the road with access to all general food amenities you may need, as well as restaurants. West Branch is about 25 minutes away with the big box stores as well. Just down the road is Kenyon's Lakeside Resort, a historic Michigan Landmark and excellent restaurant with good food, music, and more. Another excellent must-visit just down the road is Lovewell's corner store, one of the best camp stores (and more) around!! We would love to host you at the Magic Forest and provide a place for you to relax, feel safe, and be at home.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Rosemary Pines

13. Rosemary Pines

100%

(2)

30mi from Au Gres · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

This home was built by my grandparents back in the 40’s he was a military man she was a homemaker! We lived around the kitchen with smoked fish and freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies! At one time my uncles horse lived here and many of my grandfathers chicken! This home and land has lots of love surrounding it! There are many blueberry farms and amazing fishing spots! I can hand out brochures when you arrive. I also have a relationship with a local fishing charter if you would like to do a fish and fry!Learn more about this land:Woods and moss with a pond. We offer camping (must bring tents) on the property. It’s optional bathrooms and showers, grill chairs and table. We are a mile from the beach and we can drop you at the canoe rental in town. You can choose to only camp or to camp and use toilet and shower with code access. . We offer s’more sets for 2 people package in garage in refrigerator if wanted. We also have in town canoeing local and beach side fire pits along Lake Huron. We’re close to Lumberman monument which is a beautiful place to hike and see the fall colors. We’re also not a far drive from the Mackinac Bridge. You can engage in water, beaches, canoeing or just sit by the bonfire and eat s’mores! The property is 5 acres with a home located on site and someone will be available if needed. We do have dense pines with bugs so bring bug spray!

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

$80

/ night

Rustic campsite

14. Rustic campsite

80%

(5)

37mi from Au Gres · 1 site · Tent, RV

Wooded lot available for rustic camping. Pitch a tent or bring your camper but be prepared for no water or electric. Shed, picnic table and fire pit. Dogs are welcome! You’re welcome to use the shed and any items inside. Unfortunately we are without water in our lake due to the dam failure and it will remain this way until approximately 2027. Please be respectful of neighbors.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$55

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Chad

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Verity acres

Had a great time camping on Dennis's land. Very private and quiet, even in the winter with no leaves there was no signs of neighbors. Dennis was quick to respond to any questions.

A

Airin

November 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Boondock Ridge

This is our second visit and it was as great as the first! Perfect location with a beautiful view!

Oliver

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crow's Nest is a relaxing and beautiful place to stay. This was our second visit. The cabin is simple yet had everything we needed. The hosts ensure that you get to experience everything - there is a private walking trail, fire material, an outdoor grill, and much more.

C

Captain

October 2025

1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

The Crow’s Nest is such a cute and wonderful getaway from the rest of the world. Beautiful wooded property, a lovely walking trail, and a personal fire ring. I was delighted when I arrived and my partner and I were both saddened when it was time to leave. I highly recommend the location. I will absolutely be returning!!

s

steve

October 2025

35 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to River Daze

Nice simple campground close to Jeep trails,no problems at all,owner is very nice

K

Kari

October 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Boondock Ridge

Beautiful spot well taken care of. Very clean composting toilet. Loved seeing the stars. A bit noisy by the road but was beautiful!

Erica

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at River Daze

We stayed at River Daze and had a nice, quiet getaway. The host was very friendly and helpful — he was waiting when we arrived, guided us to our spot, and even had the water and electric hookups ready to go. The property sits right on the Tobacco River, which would be great in the summer for kayaking, canoeing, or tubing. It was beautiful in the fall. There are a few walking trails, and it’s less than a half mile to town, which is super convenient. There is a porta-john close for convenience. It felt cozy and tucked-away. Overall, it was peaceful, clean, and the host clearly puts care into making guests comfortable.

B

Brooke

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Sheila and Jeff were friendly hosts and quick to lend a helping hand. The land was beautiful and relaxing; the cabin, super cozy. I’m already looking forward to staying again!

S

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Verity acres

Great remote site. Excellent quiet time. Plenty of wildlife to entertain.

My youngest dog loved running the beach...

M

Matthew

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at River Daze

Quiet, despite a nearby road/bridge, and situated on the Tobacco River, Riverdaze offered me a private retreat while visiting friends nearby. I stayed for 3 nights with two pups and enjoyed the hospitality of the host as well as the convenience of nearby activities and restaurants. The hosts are putting work into the property, with improvements, and I'll keep it in mind if in the area again. The sites are perfect for tenters, small trailers, or those interested in boondocking with fire rings and picnic tables provided. A new treehouse and available water activities are great for families and adventurists.

R

Rae

October 2025

2 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

Being nestled in the trees was a cherished respite for us on our Spirit Walk. Sheila and Jeff were on the property to welcome us on arrival which was really nice. Their sweet cat supervised as we settled in. We were visited by chipmunks, squirrels, crows, and deer during our stay. Nice rustic cabin with a warm shower, comfy bed, and composting toilet plus nice kitchen amenities, walking trails, and fire pit. Charming!

Travis

September 2025

20 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Verity acres

Great spot if you are looking to get away from city noise and lights. Heard nothing but nature. Dennis was quick to respond. Dennis came to check in with us and ask if we needed anything shortly after arriving. If you like coney dogs, stop at the coney trailer in Sanford. We will be back.

M

Meghan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boondock Ridge

You can tell they take pride in their spot! You can’t get a better bathroom experience for an outhouse. Lovely fire pit, great little two person bench. Very well maintained. We are looking forward to returning!

G

Gage

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp

It was such a a beautiful place it had beautiful paths and lovely scenery. Sheila and Jeff are so nice I'm happy to have been able to come to there home. Me and my boyfriend had a wonderful time. It's the perfect spot to get away from the city. The next time I go I will definitely be staying longer.

S

Selena

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Bear Paw LLC

Genuinely such an amazing experience at Camp Bear Paw!! Kevin and Lori are phenomenal hosts. It’s truly a hidden gem. There’s activities for kids all ages and adults. Anything you may have forgotten (chairs, ice, worms, fishing poles , cooking supplies , etc.) they have it all! I couldn’t have asked for a better experience or hosts. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a nice private get away. Thank you again Kevin and Lori. You made things so memorable 😄💕

Alexa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Bear Paw LLC

Fantastic property! Not only qere the hosts so kind and helpful they truly had every accommodating feature we needed. All the kids loved it and we hope to come back again!!

C

Carrie

September 2025

29 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Super quiet, very pretty and peaceful. Had a great stay! Will definitely come back to stay again.

Emily

September 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at River Daze

Beautiful scenery for fall camping!! Swing, beach, trail and volleyball net were all enjoyed. The property is well maintained as well. We fished and kayaked on the lake five minutes away too!! We will definitely be back!!

J

Jamison

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Camp Bear Paw LLC

Always the best time! Even as the kids get older, they still have so much to do and have so much fun!! Thank you again!