Burtons Landing State Forest Campground

There are zero actual ramp lanes here — this is a hand-launch site for canoes, kayaks, and drift boats. Steps lead down to the river, which is convenient for carrying gear but means you're not backing a trailer to the water's edge. If you're trailering a motorboat, look elsewhere.

The Au Sable can drop 8-10 inches below normal during dry spells, and you'll feel it here. Shallow stretches make drift boat navigation tricky and can turn fly fishing into a frustrating exercise. Mid-to-late summer is when it's most likely to bite you.

This is a major takeout point for folks floating down from Borchers canoe livery, so expect a burst of canoes and kayaks stacking up in the afternoon — especially weekends. Ten trailer spots fill fast when a livery group lands. Mornings are calm, afternoons get hectic.

Access off the highway is straightforward with no confusing turns or unmarked roads. There's an outhouse and a campground right there, so it doubles nicely as an overnight base if you want to fish early. The whole vibe is quiet and tucked away — more locals than tourists.