Hankerd's Horseshoe Lake Campground

Paddling & Tubing

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🛶 Paddling Near the Campground

The Au Sable River runs right through the heart of northern Michigan — one of the most celebrated paddling rivers in the country. Whether you want a lazy float, a kayak adventure, or a tubing afternoon, you're in the right place.

🌊 The Au Sable River

Designated a National Scenic River, the Au Sable flows cold and clear through the pine forests just 20 miles from camp. The legendary "Holy Water" stretch near Grayling is world-famous for fly fishing, but it's equally magical by canoe or kayak. Multiple liveries make it easy — just show up, they handle the logistics.

Outfitters & Liveries

~20 miles away · Au Sable River / Grayling

Penrod's Au Sable Canoe & Kayak

~20 miles 100 Maple St, Grayling
(989) 348-2156

The largest kayak selection on the Au Sable. Penrod's is a local institution — friendly staff, well-maintained equipment, and multiple trip lengths to choose from. The Burton's Landing trip (8 miles, ~2.5 hours) is the classic choice for first-timers and regulars alike.

All Skill Levels Canoe · Kayak Burton's Landing Trip 8 mi / 2.5 hrs

Borchers Au Sable Canoe & Kayak

~20 miles 101 Maple St, Grayling
(989) 348-4921

Right next door to Penrod's on Maple Street, Borchers is another top-tier livery on the Au Sable. They also offer a B&B if you're looking to stay closer to the river for a night. Great staff, great river trips.

All Skill Levels Canoe · Kayak B&B Available

Carlisle Canoe Livery

~20 miles Grayling, MI

No experience needed — Carlisle makes it easy for first-time paddlers to get on the water with confidence. A great choice for families or anyone who's never paddled before.

Beginner Friendly Canoe · Kayak No Experience Needed

Shel-Haven Canoe, Kayak & Tube Rentals

~20 miles Manistee River, west of Grayling

On the Manistee River rather than the Au Sable — a wider, more relaxed float that's perfect for tubing. Pets are welcome, making this a top pick for guests who want to bring the dog on the water.

Beginner Friendly Pets Welcome Canoe · Kayak · Tube Manistee River

Au Sable River — Bring Your Own

~20 miles Grayling to Mio

Prefer to paddle your own boat? Multiple public access points run along the Au Sable from Grayling to Mio. Launch at one, take out at another — the river does the rest. Stop in to chat with us about the best access points for your trip.

BYO Kayak / Canoe Public Access Scenic

50–75 miles away · Worth the Drive

Big Bear Adventures

~50 miles Wolverine, MI

Sturgeon River tubing at its finest. Big Bear Adventures offers one of the most fun and laid-back water experiences in northern Michigan — just float, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

All Ages Tubing Sturgeon River

Sturgeon River Paddlesports

~50 miles Wolverine / Indian River, MI

Canoe and kayak rentals on the Sturgeon River — a beautiful, clear-water alternative to the Au Sable with a wilder, more remote feel. Great for paddlers looking for something a little different.

Canoe · Kayak Sturgeon River Remote & Scenic

Rainbow Resort Canoe Livery

~60 miles Mio, MI

A classic northern Michigan canoe livery on the lower Au Sable near Mio. A great option for those who want a longer, quieter stretch of river away from the Grayling crowds.

Canoe · Kayak Au Sable River

Chippewa Landing

~75 miles Manistee River / Cadillac, MI

A destination paddling experience on the Manistee River near Cadillac. Best for those looking to make a full day of it — the Manistee is a gem of a river with stunning scenery along every bend.

Canoe · Kayak Manistee River Scenic