Rifle River Recreation Area

The park is a wilderness located located within the AuSable State Fores. It's a great destination for wildlife watching, hiking, fishing and hunting.

Activities:

Cross Country Ski: Trails are not groomed.

Fishing:
For the fishing enthusiasts, ten scenic lakes offer all types of fishing. Bluegills, bass, northern pike, yellow perch and trout can be found in these lakes. Brook, brown and rainbow trout are present throughout the many miles of streams in the recreation area. Fisheries research is being conducted on Jewett Lake. This lake is closed to fishing without a permit which is available at park headquarters. All lakes are closed to boats with motors. Consult the Rifle River Fishing Guide for more information about which species can be found in the many lakes in the recreation area.

Hiking: The 14 miles of pathways meandering throughout the park offer hiking, biking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Numbered posts keyed to the map will help keep you oriented while on the pathways. There is an observation tower that gives sightseers a fantastic scenic view of the recreation area.

Hunting: The wilderness setting of Rifle River Recreation Area is ideal for those who enjoy hunting or trapping. Ruffed grouse, ducks, geese, turkey, woodcock, rabbits, squirrel, raccoon, fox and deer may be hunted during their respective seasons. Beaver, otter, mink and muskrat are in abundance and may be trapped. Regulations may be obtained at the park headquarters.

Mountain Biking: The 14 miles of pathways meandering throughout the park offer hiking, biking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Numbered posts keyed to the map will help keep you oriented while on the pathways. Biking is prohibited on the Pintail Pond Trail.

Paddling: Canoe launching sites are located in several places along the Rifle River in the park.

Snowmobiling: Snowmobiles are allowed, but a Michigan Trail Permit is required for each snowmobile.

Swimming

Watchable Wildlife

Winter Camping

Campgrounds

Rifle River Grousehaven-Modern
Rifle River-Devoe Lake Rustic
Rifle River-Group Use Area
Rifle River-Ranch Rustic
Rifle River-Rustic Cabins
Rifle River-Spruce Rustic

Trails

Rifle River-Multi-use Trail
Trail Length: 14.00 (Miles)

Rifle River-Pintail Pond
Trail Length: 0.75 (Miles)

Facilities:

Picnic Area: Day use facilities with swimming beach and picnic areas are available to park visitors at Grousehaven Lake. Fire pits/grills available.

Playground