Russell Canoe Livery and Campground is located on the Rifle River in Omer, Michigan. The business is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though they may allow patrons to make early or late reservations by appointment. There are 30 campsites that can be used interchangeably as RV spaces or tent spots. There are a variety of amenities that can be found across the grounds, including a convenience store, a dumping station, a laundry facility, and showers. Kayaks, canoes, and tubes can be rented to explore the Rifle River. One unique aspect of the business, according to the manager, is that they allow people to camp in April during sucker fishing season. The goal of Russell Canoe Livery and Campground is to create a safe environment for guests to enjoy the attractions in the area. Pets are allowed on the premises, and smoking is permitted outside.
Russell Canoe Livery and Campground has a total of 30 campsites, which can accommodate both RVs and tents. Most offer electricity and all guests have access to filling and dumping stations. The sites are primarily grassy, and each one is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit.
In addition to the campsites, Russell Canoe Livery and Campground provides various facilities to help enhance their patrons’ stay. The business offers a convenience store with a selection of pop, beer, snacks, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other souvenirs. It also carries camping essentials such as dry bags, coolers, and towels. Other amenities include a laundry facility and bathrooms with showers, which are located in the store building. Firewood delivery to the campsite is available, but outside firewood is not permitted due to the emerald ash borer.
Guests are able to participate in recreational activities, with the campground offering canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and rafting trips. The establishment has a dock area that serves as the starting or ending point for most water-based activities. Additionally, one can find a volleyball court and a small playground on the premises. While fishing is available on the property, it tends to be better in the spring and fall. One unique aspect of the business, according to the manager, is an event that they hold called “sucker fishing.” According to the manager, sucker fishing used to be so popular that “there used to be a sucker festival.” Dozens of people still gather each spring to take advantage of the yearly sucker run.
Due to the campground’s close proximity to Lake Huron, people are able to spend time at one of the beaches in towns like Au Gres and Tawas City. Other attractions that can be found in the vicinity include the historic courthouse in Omer and Linwood Marina. Russell Canoe Livery and Campground employees also enjoy recommending restaurants in the area. A few eateries they mention are Wheeler’s Restaurant, Pine River Store and Deli, B's Family Restaurant, and Ali's UpNorth.
The manager of Russell Canoe Livery and Campground explains that safety is a top priority for guests. Life jackets are provided as part of the rentals, including sizes for children aged six and under, who are required to wear them by state law. When river conditions become unfavorable, the livery will suspend rentals, prioritizing the well-being of their customers.
The livery staff actively interacts with patrons and tries to assist them during their stay. Upon arrival, guests can receive assistance with campsite selection. Each day, the business also scheduled river trips.
The establishment has implemented a variety of policies in an effort to maintain safety, preserve the natural environment, and provide a positive experience for its guests. Life jackets are mandatory for kayakers and strongly recommended for everyone that is not a strong swimmer. Styrofoam and glass are prohibited on the river, and fire rings at the campsites are not to be moved. The livery also suggests using a spotter when backing up trailers to avoid damage to the campsite facilities and vehicles. Pets are welcome at the campground for a small fee; however, they must be leashed, and their owners must clean up after them. Smoking is permitted on the premises but is prohibited inside the stores and company vehicles. Quiet hours begin at 11:00 p.m. and continue throughout the night until 8:00 a.m.
The business is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and they have received a variety of visitors from across the United States throughout the years. One person who recently stayed at Russell Canoe Livery and Campground wrote in a review, “We went with a large group to tube down the river. It’s always fun. The staff is nice and well organized.” The establishment is typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though the manager mentions that there is also the opportunity for early- and late-season rentals by appointment.
Russell Canoe Livery and Campground has a history that dates as far back as 1959, when the current owner’s father established it. Initially operating out of their home, the business started with only six canoes and a trailer. Inspired by another local canoe livery, Russell Canoe Livery and Campground became the second establishment of its kind along the Rifle River.
In 1977, the current owners, Robert and Leslie Russell, purchased the business from Julia Reid, Robert's mother, and continue to operate the property. According to the manager, who is also one of their children, she and her brother are preparing to take ownership of their family’s establishment. The manager grew up working with her grandmother at the livery. She mentions that after years of pursuing other endeavors and exploring different places, she returned to the company approximately ten years ago.
Over the years, the property has undergone many changes and improvements. Notably, relatively large barns were constructed to house the inventory of equipment that the business has, including the items that can be rented. One significant alteration came when the establishment shifted from predominantly offering canoe rentals to focusing more on providing tube rentals. In the future, Russell Canoe Livery and Campgrounds would like to invite various food trucks on busier weekends. Another plan is to add cabins to the property, although the manager mentions that this is a long-term goal still under consideration.
146 Carrington St
Omer, Michigan 48749
United States
Campground
Robert and Leslie Russell
