The AuSable River is one of Michigan’s most popular camping, fishing and kayaking destinations. Located in the northern lower peninsula, the AuSable River is known for its crystal clear water, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife.
The river is relatively calm and easy to navigate. And it’s a major tributary of Lake Huron and is well known for its fly fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. In fact, it is home to a variety of fish, including trout, salmon, smallmouth bass, and pike.
There are numerous campgrounds and canoe liveries located along the river, making it easy to find a spot to set up camp! Some of them have RV hookups, while others are more primitive.
Whether you’re looking to camp, fish, or kayak, the Au Sable River is a great destination for a Michigan outdoor adventure.
In the following article, we are going to share everything that you need to know before heading over the AuSable River. Let’s begin;
A Brief To Au Sable River In Michigan
The 138 miles long Au Sable river has two main branches, the East Branch and the West Branch. The East Branch begins in the town of Grayling and flows through the Huron National Forest before emptying into Lake Huron.
And the West Branch begins in Mio. It flows through the Manistee National Forest before joining the East Branch and flowing into Lake Huron.
The river offers a variety of scenery, from calm, flat water to challenging rapids. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at many locations along the river.
The river is one of the most important rivers in North America for a number of reasons. First, the river is a major source of drinking water for the cities of Ann Arbor and Lansing. Second, the river is a critical link in the Great Lakes waterway system.
Finally, the Ausable River is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the piping plover and the bald eagle.
Yes, you can kayak the AuSable River! In fact, kayaking the AuSable is a great way to explore the river and its wildlife. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when kayaking the AuSable, however. First, the river can be quite cold, even in the summer months. Be sure to dress appropriately and wear a life jacket.
The depth of the river varies depending on the location. The average depth is approximately 3 feet, but it can range from 2-4 feet deep. The deepest section of the river is located near the town of Mio, where it is approximately 20 feet deep.
AuSable River map For Kayaking And Fishing
The Ausable River is one of Michigan’s most iconic waterways. It runs through the heart of the Lower Peninsula and is a popular destination for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
The Ausable River is one of the few remaining rivers in Michigan that still has a healthy population of native fish, including trout, salmon, and steelhead. The river is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, and beaver.
[ Html Map / Image Map Needed ]
The river is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. There are numerous public access points along the river, and the Ausable River State Park offers camping, picnicking, and hiking opportunities.
So, if you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend a day on the water, the river may be a great choice.
AuSable river fishing And Kayaking Destinations / Spots
East Branch
Burtons Landing
Burtons Landing on the Au Sable River is a great place for a summertime kayaking or fishing trip! The Landing is located about four miles upstream from the popular canoe livery at Grayling and offers a secluded, natural setting for a day on the river.
The Landing is named for Burton, the family that has owned the property since the early 1900s. The Burtons were a prominent family in the area, and their home was a gathering place for many local events. The Landing was once the site of a sawmill and a gristmill and later served as a campground for loggers and fishermen.
Today, Burtons Landing is a beautiful spot for a picnic and a great place to put in your kayak or canoe. The Landing is also a popular fishing spot, and you can often catch trout, salmon, and other fish in the Au Sable River.
Wakeley Creek
Wakeley Creek is another great place to go, kayaking and fishing in the AuSable River. The creek is shallow and has many different types of rocks and gravel to paddle over.
There are many different types of fish that can be caught in the creek, including trout, bass, and pike. The creek is also home to many different types of wildlife, including deer, ducks, and geese. The creek is also a great place to swim, as it is very clean and clear.
However, many people miss out on this great spot because they don’t know about it or they think it’s too difficult to get to.
Here’s why you shouldn’t miss out on Wakeley Creek:
1. It’s easy to get to
Wakeley Creek is located just a few hours from Detroit, so it’s easy to get to. There are also plenty of camping and RV sites nearby, so you can make a weekend of it.
2. The water is clean and clear
The water at Wakeley Creek is clean and clear, making it perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
3. The scenery is beautiful
The scenery at Wakeley Creek is absolutely stunning. The Au Sable River is surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation.
4. There are plenty of fish to catch
If you’re a fisherman, you’ll be in heaven at Wakeley Creek. There are plenty of fish to catch, including trout, bass, and pike.
5. It’s a great place to relax
Wakeley Creek is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There’s no better way to spend a summer day than kayaking down the Au Sable River and fishing in the creek.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out to Wakeley Creek and enjoy the great outdoors!
Rainbow Point
Rainbow Point is one of the most popular kayaking and fishing spots on the AuSable River. It’s located on the east side of the river, just downstream from the confluence with the East Branch.
The point gets its name from the many rainbow trout that can be found here. But it’s also a great spot for brown trout, brook trout, and even the occasional steelhead.
Stephan Bridge Landing
Shellenbarger is a beautiful lake with plenty of places to kayak and fish for bass, walleye, and pike. You can also find panfish here. The lake is well-stocked with fish, so you are sure to have a good time.
The water is clean and clear, and the beach is sandy and inviting. Located in the town of Grayling, Michigan, it is also a great place to take a swim.
West Branch
Mio Dam Pond
Mio Dam Pond is one of our favorite places to kayak and fish in the AuSable River. The pond is located in the town of Mio, Michigan, and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It is relatively small, but it is deep enough to provide good fishing and kayaking opportunities. And there are also several small islands in the pond that provide good places to explore.
Overall, Mio Dam Pond is a great place to kayak, fish, and explore. It is a great spot for both locals and tourists.
Big Creek
Big Creek is a beautiful, sandy beach that is perfect for kayaking and canoeing. The beach is located on the east side of the river, and it offers a great view of the river. It is a tributary of the AuSable River and is well-known for its excellent fishing, and kayaking.
The creek is easily accessible from the Au Sable River and offers excellent fishing opportunities. In addition, the creek is located in a beautiful setting with great views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
McMasters Bridge
McMaster’s Bridge is a popular put-in for kayaking the AuSable River. It is located on County Road 612, about four miles north of Grayling. The Bridge is named after the McMaster family, who were the first to settle in the area. The Bridge is a great spot for kayakers because it has a large parking area and a boat ramp.
There’s plenty of parking, and the boat ramp makes it easy to get your kayak in the water. Once you’re on the river, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery and maybe even spot some wildlife. Au Sable River kayaking is a great way to spend a day, and McMaster’s Bridge is a great place to start your adventure.
Top Kayak & Canoe Rentals in AuSable River
AuSable River offers some of the best kayak and canoe rentals in the area! Every year, thousands of people come to paddle its waters. If you’re planning a trip to the river, you’ll need to rent a kayak or canoe. However, if you’re looking for an affordable way to experience the river, you’ll want to choose one of the best companies in the area.
Here are some of the best places to rent a kayak or canoe in the AuSable River;
Oscoda Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Oscoda Canoe & Kayak Rentals is a full-service kayak and canoe rental business that has been serving the AuSable River area for over 20 years. They offer a wide variety of kayaks and canoes, as well as stand-up paddleboards, so you’re sure to find the perfect boat for your trip!
And they also have a shuttle service and a wide variety of rental options, so you can customize your trip to your specific needs.
Pine River Paddlesports
Pine River Paddlesports is a great option for those looking for a one-stop shop for all of their paddling needs. In addition to canoe and kayak rentals, they also offer stand-up paddleboard rentals, lessons, and tours.
It is a family-owned and operated business that provides top-quality watercraft for rent. Their rental equipment is well-maintained and top-of-the-line, and they provide excellent information.
They are located in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, a great spot for family activities. In addition to its rental service, the center also offers a number of accommodations for guests. If you’re bringing a group, there are cabins available nearby.
North Country Canoe & Kayak
When you are looking for excellent boat rentals in Oscoda, MI, you can trust North Country Canoe & Kayak.
Here you can choose from two-hour and four-hour trips or a full-day tour that will take you between five and six hours. When you’re finished, make sure to head down to Oscoda Beach Park for a refreshing dip.
This business has been serving the community for over five years and is conveniently located near the Au Sable River. Besides, they also perform regular maintenance on all of our rentals to ensure that they’re in top shape for your next adventure.
Wilderness Canoe & Kayak
Wilderness Canoe & Kayak Rentals offers a variety of options for canoe and kayak rentals in the Au Sable River area. Their rental plans are ideal for one-day trips, family outings, scout groups, and school groups.
However, they also offer multi-day trips and have a complete selection of kayaks and canoes.
Other Things to Explore Around Au Sable, Michigan
There are several things to explore around Au Sable, Michigan. The area’s attractions include Canoe Marathon, Huron-Manistee National Forest, Lumberman’s Monument, and lots more.
Here are some of the best things to explore around Au Sable, Michigan.
AuSable River Canoe Marathon
The AuSable River Canoe Marathon is one of the most popular canoe races in the United States. It is a long-distance marathon that covers a distance of 120 miles.
The marathon is held every year on the last Saturday of July. And it takes place over a period of two days, and it is a challenging race for both experienced and novice canoeists.
The Au Sable River Canoe Marathon starts in Grayling, Michigan, and ends in Oscoda, Michigan.
Remember, the canoe marathon is a test of endurance and skill! It is not for the faint of heart. It’s grueling, and it takes a lot of physical and mental strength to finish. Moreover, there have been a few fatalities over the years, and many people have been injured.
Overnight Camping Trips
One of the best things about AuSable River Camping is that it’s located right on the river. This means that you can enjoy all the benefits of camping right on the water. You can go fishing, swimming, or just relax and take in the beautiful scenery. The river is also a great place to go canoeing or kayaking.
There are a variety of different campsites to choose from, so you can find the perfect spot for your group. Whether you’re looking for a primitive campsite or a more developed one with amenities like electricity and running water, the AuSable River has what you’re looking for.
White Pine Canoe Campground
White Pine Canoe Campground is a beautiful, family-friendly campground located on the AuSable River in Michigan. The campground offers a wide variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, including canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and much more.
The campground also has a playground, horseshoe pits, and a volleyball court for those looking to stay active while camping.
This canoe campground offers a variety of different accommodations, from tent sites to RV sites.
There are also cabins available for rent, so you can have a comfortable place to stay while you’re enjoying the river. Whether you’re looking for a great place to camp, paddle, fish, or just enjoy the outdoors, White Pine Canoe Campground is the perfect destination for you.
Keystone Landing State Forest Campground
If you’re looking for a truly unique camping experience, look no further than Keystone Landing State Forest Campground. This campground, located on the river, offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
One of the best things about Keystone Landing State Forest Campground is the variety of activities available. Whether you want to go fishing, swimming, hiking, or just relaxing in the great outdoors, this campground has something for everyone.
Fishing is a popular activity at Keystone Landing State Forest Campground. Moreover, the river is home to a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and pike. If you don’t have your own equipment, don’t worry – the campground has a few fishing poles available for rent.
If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, AuSable is the perfect place to do it. Take a dip in the refreshing water or go for a swim. Just be sure to follow the campground’s swimming rules and regulations.
If you love to hike, you’ll be happy to know that there are several hiking trails in the area. The campground also has a few mountain biking trails, so you can explore the area on two wheels.
Huron-Manistee National Forests
The Huron-Manistee National Forests are a great place to explore around AuSable River, Michigan. With over two million acres of forest to explore, there are plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and fishing spots to enjoy.
The North Country Trail runs through the Huron-Manistee National Forests and offers hikers beautiful views of the AuSable River. There are also many other hiking trails to explore, including the Manistee River Trail and the Pere Marquette River Trail.
If you’re looking for a place to camp, the Huron-Manistee National Forests offer over 100 developed campgrounds. There are also many backcountry camping opportunities for those who want to get away from it all.
Fishing is also a popular activity in the Huron-Manistee National Forests. The AuSable River is known for its trout fishing, and there are also many other lakes and streams where you can cast your line.
Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, or fish, the Huron-Manistee National Forests are a great place to explore.
One-Day Kayaking Trips In AuSable River, Michigan
A typical kayaking trip on the Ausable River takes one day. Many people choose to start their trip at the headwaters in Grayling, Michigan, and paddle downstream to the Ausable River State Park. The park offers a number of camping and picnicking sites, as well as a boat launch.
There are a number of different routes that can be taken on the Ausable River. The most popular route is the one that takes paddlers through the heart of the Au Sable River State Park. This route is approximately 9 miles long and takes paddlers through a variety of scenery, including forests, wetlands, and meadows.
Another popular route is the one that paddlers can take from Grayling to the mouth of the river. This route is approximately 12 miles long and takes paddlers through some of the most beautiful scenery in Michigan.
No matter what route you choose to take, the Ausable River in Michigan is a great place to spend a day canoeing or kayaking. Again, the river offers a variety of scenery and is a great way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of Michigan.
Yes, you can tube down the AuSable River. In fact, tubing the river is a great way to enjoy the summer weather and get some exercise. And there are many different places to put in and take out, so you can make the trip as long or as short as you want.
The Au Sable River is home to many different fish species. Some of the most popular fish that can easily find in the river include trout, salmon, bass, pike, and walleye.
Each of these fish offers a unique fishing experience and can be found in different parts of the river. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to find different fish in the Au Sable River.
The Au Sable River is home to many different fish species. Some of the most common fish that can be found in the river include trout, salmon, bass, pike, and walleye. Each of these fish offers a unique fishing experience and can be found in different parts of the river.
Depending on the time of year, you may be able to find different fish in the Au Sable River. The trout is one of the most popular fish in the Au Sable River.
Trout can be found in many different parts of the river. Salmon is also a common fish in the Au Sable River.
Salmon can be found in the upper parts of the river and offer a great fishing experience. Bass is another common fish in the Au Sable River.
Bass can be found in the lower parts of the river and offer a great fishing experience. Pike is also a common fish in the Au Sable River. Pike can be found in the upper parts of the river. Walleye are also a common fish in the Au Sable River.
You can also find Walleye in the lower parts of the river.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an amazing outdoor experience, kayaking the AuSable River may the best. Here, camping is easy, and there’s plenty of water if you need it, while fishing is a great way to get some nice-sized fish. Moreover, kayaking is definitely an option if you’re looking for a leisurely adventure with some great scenery. The guide includes everything you need to get the most of the river
