Along the final stretch of the AuSable River before it reaches Lake Huron, Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center provides free camping within the Huron National Forest. The campground sits adjacent to the memorial park and connects directly to trails leading to sand dunes and river access points.
Campers find paved sites equipped with fire pits and picnic tables, surrounded by dense forest cover. The campground offers both single and double vehicle sites, with restrooms distributed throughout the area. Access roads can present challenges, as several reviewers note rough conditions that require careful navigation. Cell service remains available for those needing connectivity during their stay.
The location serves as a base for multiple outdoor activities, with a trail system connecting to the AuSable sand dune where visitors can descend over 100 feet to reach the water. Mecha M. notes this is a "very nice spot that's surrounded by forest." The visitor center provides educational programs and museum exhibits about the area's logging history, while float trips and fishing opportunities draw anglers to the nearby river.
Monument Campground sits just southeast for additional forest service camping, while the broader region offers campsites near Huron National Forest for those planning extended stays. Bring lanterns for nighttime navigation, as the forest canopy creates particularly dark conditions after sunset.
Description
Au Sable River Primitive Camping - No permit or reservation is required outside of the permitted season. Camping Permit required at primitive campsites from May 15 to September 10. Special Use Permit - No special use permit is required for individuals or small groups (74 people or less). Permits are required for commercial, event or large groups (75 people or more). Visit the Passes and Permits section for more information on obtaining a special use permit.
Lumberman's Monument Visitor CenterLumberman’s Monument Visitor Center interprets the area’s colorful lumbering past. The 14-foot Lumberman’s Monument stands on a high bank with the Au Sable River providing a scenic backdrop. Learn about the industry that helped develop northern Michigan and the men who cut the timber that helped build a nation. Climb through a log jam, use a peavey, cut a wooden cookie with a cross-cut saw, and learn about the life of a lumberjack through video and displays. Hike the stairway down to the wanigan, a loggers floating kitchen, or take the short trail to the dune observation deck. Enjoy a Kid’s Day program or take a guided nature hike.
Reservation Info
Camping Permit required at primitive campsites from May 15 to September 10. Special Use Permit - No special use permit is required for individuals or small groups (74 people or less). Permits are required for commercial, event or large groups (75 people or more).
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLumberman's Monument Visitor Center is located in Michigan
Directions
Lumbermans Monument 5401 Monument Road Oscoda, MI 48750 _ From Tawas - _ From M-55 turn right onto Wilber Rd. go 1.25 miles north to Monument Rd. Continue on Monument Rd. for 11 miles to River Rd. _ From Oscoda - _ Travel 15 miles west along River Rd.
Coordinates
44.43542626 N
83.62368697 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/26/26- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/26/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/26/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/26/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 18 min from Bay City, MI
- 1 hr 27 min from Saginaw, MI
- 1 hr 28 min from Midland, MI
- 1 hr 51 min from Flint, MI
