Mio Pond State Forest Campground Boat Launch

Eight trailer spots fill fast on summer weekends, especially during the canoe livery rush. If you're pulling in after 9 AM on a Saturday in July, you might be out of luck. Weekdays are a different story — you'll practically have the place to yourself.

One lane means any fumbling at the ramp backs everyone up. It works fine for small boats and kayaks, but don't try squeezing anything over 18 feet down there. The ramp itself is in decent shape, though — better than a lot of state forest launches in the area.

The dock has been in rough shape at times — broken planks and missing sections. Don't count on it being there to tie off to. Bring a partner to hold the boat or plan on beaching it after you launch.

The pond is a dammed section of the Au Sable, so it's slow and relatively shallow in spots. Watch for submerged logs and stumps near the shoreline, especially on the south side. Great for kayaks and small fishing boats, but it's not open water — keep your prop trimmed up until you know what's below you.

The campground road is dirt but well-maintained and easy to navigate with a trailer. Signage off M-33 can be a little confusing your first time — once you pass the dam, slow down or you'll blow right past the turn.