Water Activities

There is no shortage of lakes in Crawford County. Our most popular lakes are well known for boating and having large beaches for swimming.  Public access sites are available for launching.  If canoeing or kayaking is more your style, several canoe liveries offer canoe or kayak rentals. Spend a couple of hours or camp and enjoy a couple of days on the river. There is also the option to use public landings if you have your own boat, such as the one near the Grayling City Park. https://ausableaccess.com/ 

Boating And Swimming

There are public access locations throughout Crawford County for swimming and boating. Lake Margrethe has a public beach at the public campground off McIntyre’s Landing Road, M-72 West…

Canoeing & Kayaking

The world famous AuSable and Manistee Rivers have crystal clear water and no rocks or rapids, just an easy 3-5 mile per hour current. Canoeing or kayaking through beautiful forests of pine, birch…

Borchers

Carlisle Canoes Livery

We offer canoe, kayak trips from 2 1/2 hours to several days. We can customize your trip for your enjoyment. The Au Sable River from Grayling to Oscoda offers many campgrounds with facilities for a…

Goose Creek Trail Camp

Located near the majestic Manistee River, this rustic campground is surrounded by tall jack pines. There is a large open group camping area designed for equestrian campers riding the Shore-to-Shore…

Jones Lake State Forest Campground

Recreation opportunities include fishing, paddle sports and watching wildlife. There is a small picnic area near the boat launch. There are 42 sites for tent and small trailer use. Camping is…

White Pine Canoe Camp

Situated on the banks of the main branch of the Au Sable River, this rustic campground is designated for canoe access only and a ideal campsite for paddlers. There are five sites suitable for tents…

Fencco

Providing fun in our area! Come enjoy the trails and lakes in Northern Michigan in style and comfort in one of our Polaris RZR 1000’s, Pontoon boats or snowmobiles. Bring the family and enjoy a day…

Kneff Lake Campground

Kneff Lake is a designated trout lake and is stocked with rainbow trout in the spring. The lake is a 20-acre shared private, state and federal ownership. A beach area is available for swimming.

North Higgins Lake State Park

North Higgins Lake State Park – located along the north shore of Higgins Lake at the former site of the world's largest seedling nursery – is home to a modern campground, mini cabins, a…