Satellite view of Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground Boat Launch
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Parmalee Bridge State Forest Campground Boat Launch

Au Sable River · Oscoda County, Michigan
Last verified: July 7, 2026
1 laneUnimproved ramp
2 spotsTrailer parking
4a–11pHours
Directions
Street View
Craft & Seasonality
Motorboat
Kayak / Canoe
Jet Ski / PWC
Large Boat
Winter Access
Site Details
Conditions change rapidly due to water levels, prop wash, and weather. Always visually inspect before backing down.
RampUnimproved, 1 lane
Trailer Parking2 spots · gravel
Vehicle-Only4 spots
FeeMI Recreation Passport (annual, on vehicle registration)
Hours4 AM – 11 PM
RestroomsVault toilet (2)
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier · Pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Easy To Miss
The turn for the ramp has almost no signage — if you're driving the county road, you'll blow right past it. Slow down and watch for the bridge itself as your landmark.
Road Noise Warning
Don't let the river setting fool you into expecting serenity. Semi trucks run that county road all night, and they are loud. If you're camping after a paddle, bring earplugs or you won't sleep.
Takeout Not Launch
This is really a carry-down takeout spot for canoes and kayaks floating down from Grayling or Rainbow Bend — not a trailer launch in any meaningful sense. Two trailer spots and one lane means it's built for pulling boats out, not putting them in. Don't plan a trip around trailering a motorboat here.
Shallow Wading Water
The river stays ankle- to knee-deep for a good stretch near the access. Great for tubers and wading, but if you're in anything with a keel, you'll be dragging bottom in late summer.
No Cell, Limited Supplies
Cell service is basically text-only out here. There's a small store within walking distance to the north, but it closes at 7pm — plan your ice and supply runs accordingly.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews, Google Street View
About This Lake