8
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Gabions Campground
Overview Gabions Campground offers camping on the National Scenic stretch of the Au Sable River. Natural springs are common on this section of the river, including a small one at the river's edge near the gabions. Gabions are rock-filled wire baskets that are placed along the riverbank to help reduce erosion. The Shore-to-Shore Trail passes near the campground; however, Gabions is not a designated horse camp and horse camping is not permitted. Wildlife and waterfowl viewing opportunities exist; please respect wildlife and observe from a distance. Recreation Water Activites: Anglers can boat, wade, and fish from shore. Fish species found in the Au Sable River include bass, pike, brown trout, walleye, perch, sunfish, steelhead, and salmon. The water flows at a speed of 2 mph. The Au Sable River provides opportunities for non-motorized boating using watercraft such as canoes, kayaks, and rafts. 4001 Canoe Access is a short drive and provides developed access to the Au Sable river. Alcona Canoe Rental in nearby Glennie and Hinchman's Acres Resort in Mio provide watercraft rentals for canoes, kayaks, and tubes. Hiking: Visitors can walk the Shore-to-Shore Horse Trail which passes through the campground. This trail is open to hiking and horseback riding. Hikers should be aware this is not a loop trail. Additionally, hikers can drive southwest on Au Sable River road to reach the Ruffed Grouse trail head for a short leasurely 0.6 mile loop through the forest. OHV Riding: An OHV trail utilizes Au Sable River road at the mouth of the campground road. Taking the trail to the east will connect riders to the Alcona ATV Trail and taking the trail to the west will connect riders to to the Mack Lake Motorized Trail System and the Bull Gap Hill Climb Area . Additionally, a large majority of Forest Service roads are open to OHV use. Please refer to the motor vehicle use map (MVUM) to understand which roads are open to OHV use. Facilities Amenities available include a vault toilet and trash collection. There is no water provided in the campground. Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and lantern posts. Natural Features The Au Sable River is a short walk from the campground where visitors can experience world class fishing and floating opportunities. Each site is shaded by a mixed forest of hardwoods, red pines, and jack pine. contact_info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (989) 826-3252.
- 8 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- Most common site type: unknown (8).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes Gabions Campground special
Set along the National Scenic stretch of the Au Sable River near Mio, Michigan, Gabions Campground is a paddler's dream and a nature lover's sanctuary. Eight sites are tucked among the hardwoods and conifers that line this storied river, where cold, crystal-clear water fed by natural springs flows over gravel beds that have sustained world-class trout fishing for generations. The Au Sable is one of Michigan's most celebrated rivers, and the scenic stretch that runs past Gabions is among its most beautiful. Canoeing and kayaking here is pure bliss, with gentle currents carrying you past forested banks where bald eagles, great blue herons, and white-tailed deer are regular companions. The natural springs that feed the river keep the water cold year-round, making it prime habitat for brown and brook trout. Summer is the peak season, with June through September offering the best weather for paddling and fishing. Fall brings spectacular color to the hardwood canopy and fewer visitors. The eight sites are modest and peaceful, perfect for those who prefer the sound of flowing water over the hum of generators. Reserve early for summer weekends, as this stretch of river draws devoted followers who return year after year. Gabions Campground is a quiet tribute to everything that makes Michigan river country special.
Campsite Inventory
8 sites to choose from
Unknown
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
02:00 PM, 2:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Driveway entry
Back-in, Parallel
Driveway length (ft)
30, 40, 45, 75
Driveway surface
Gravel
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
30, 40, 45, 75
Pets allowed
Yes
Site Access
Drive In, Drive-In
Water Hookup
No
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
989-826-3252
sm.fs.hmnf@usda.gov
Getting There
From the South on M33: Turn East onto Curtisville Road and stay on it for approximately 15.5 miles. (Note the name of the road will change to: Au Sable Valley River Rd and then Au Sable River Rd.) Turn Left (north) onto Brodie Road. Follow the signs to the campground. From Mio via McKinley Road: Follow McKinley Road/Au Sable Road approximately 20 miles. Turn right on 4001/Au Sable River Road and drive 3/4 mile. Turn Right (north) onto Brodie Road.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Gabions Campground.
How do reservations work for Gabions Campground?
Reservation availability for Gabions Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Gabions Campground?
Gabions Campground currently lists Unknown (8).
Where is Gabions Campground located?
Gabions Campground is in Michigan near Mio. Coordinates: 44.6210, -83.8471.
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