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Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground and Canoe Camp
Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground and Canoe Camp
Escape to this secluded, rustic campground nestled along the Au Sable River, a haven for paddlers and anglers. A spacious, sun-drenched picnic area separates the campsites from the river, perfect for riverside lunches. Convenient amenities include a centrally located hand-pump well and dumpster. A gravel-and-sand boat launch provides easy river access. The campground is divided into two distinct areas, including:
- Campground: Seven shaded campsites, tucked beneath towering red pines.
- Group site: A paddle-in campsite on the west side features four fire pits and six picnic tables.
The campground is located 10 miles west of Mio via M-72 West, Mapes Road, Brown Cabin Road, Deeter Road and North Red Oak Road.
Amenities & activities
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At a glance
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Detailed view
Boat launch
Fishing
Group-use area
Hunting
Paddle-in campsite
Paddling
Picnic area
Rustic sites
Walk-in campsites
Water access
Boat launch
Fishing
Trout, bass and pike are caught in the Au Sable River.
Group-use area
Hunting
This campground provides access to state land open to hunting. Firearm hunting is not allowed within 450 feet of an occupied dwelling.
Paddle-in campsite
A paddle-in/walk-in group site is located in the campground along the Au Sable River.
Paddling
Paddling is popular on the Au Sable River. Carry-in access is located approximately 100 yards from the parking area down a set of stairs.
Picnic area
A picnic area is centrally located in the campground and includes a picnic table.
Rustic sites
Walk-in campsites
A walk-in/canoe-in group site is available.
Water access
This rustic campground is located along the Au Sable River.
What to expect, finding a site
These rustic campgrounds offer stunning river and lakefront settings, perfect for fishing, boating, and paddling. Here's what you can expect:
- No reservations. Sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- There are vault toilets.
- Potable (drinking) water is available from a hand-pump well.
- No electrical available.
- Overnight fees ($20 for most sites) and registration procedures are posted at the information kiosk at each campground.
- Camping is limited to a 15-day maximum stay.
- One camping unit and six people are allowed per site.
Area map
Rates, dates and more
Recreation Passport required
A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds.
Operating dates and amenities
View state forest campground rates. operating dates & amenities
State forest campground info
Find more info on state forest campgrounds.