The northeast Michigan region contains several established campgrounds near Alpena's Lake Huron shoreline. The area features sandy beaches along the Thunder Bay coastline with mild summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F from June through August. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 580-650 feet above sea level with mixed hardwood forests surrounding many camping areas.
What to do
Lakefront activities: At Ossineke State Forest Campground, campers can enjoy direct access to Lake Huron. "About half the sites have waterfront access, beautiful beach, nice wooded sites," notes Rachel K. The campground features a sandy shoreline perfect for swimming during summer months.
Golfing opportunities: Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort in Hillman offers camping combined with golf. "There are several 'packages' including camping and golf (if that's what you enjoy) and at times you can take a horse drawn Elk tour or participate in a Murder Mystery weekend," explains Carol W. The resort sits approximately 30 miles west of Alpena.
Paddling options: Many campgrounds provide easy access to waterways for kayaking and canoeing. "Lovely rustic campground, with several sites fronting Lake Huron. We tent-camped in August and swam twice a day in that beautiful crystal clear water," shares Mary H. about Ossineke State Forest Campground, located 10 miles south of Alpena.
What campers like
Large waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the spaciousness at Alcona Park. "We have been coming here for years, many years. We love the staff and most of the neighboring campers. The lots are huge," notes Summer K. The park sits on Alcona Pond, approximately 40 miles southwest of Alpena.
Sandy beaches: The natural beaches along Lake Huron rank highly with visitors. "We camped here in mid October. Beautiful woodsy sites. Most are well spaced and offer lots of privacy. Many sites offer lake front access," writes Joseph R. about Ossineke State Forest Campground.
Biking trails: Hoeft State Park Campground features excellent biking opportunities. "Excellent paved bike trail takes you to town or north to the lighthouse," mentions Rose M. This trail system connects the campground to Rogers City and extends to 40 Mile Point lighthouse.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds have railroad tracks nearby. At Oscoda-Tawas KOA, "The train does run late and sometimes in the middle of the night but the conductor comes and stands on the platform and waves to all the kids," reports Cassie. This train schedule may affect light sleepers.
Water access varies: While many campgrounds advertise water access, actual waterfront sites are limited. "Campers Cove in Alpena is so nice! Some great things include: putt putt, most sites are on water, there is a fishing pond," notes Alexandra M. about Campers Cove RV Park.
Cell service limitations: Mobile phone coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "We got a solid two bars on Verizon and were able to connect to the internet using our MiFi," reports MickandKarla W. about Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort. Several campgrounds have limited or no phone service.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. "The campground has a fabulous rec room for kids and an outside playground with a jungle gym and other amenities," notes Gerard about Oscoda-Tawas KOA.
Consider mini-golf options: Recreational activities like mini-golf can entertain children. "They also have putt putt golf which costs us 1.50 per person. That being said it is probably the worst kept putt putt I've played, but my kids (all under 8) enjoyed it," shares Matthew E. about Campers Cove RV Park.
Seek boat rentals: Water activities provide entertainment for families. "There are bikes, pontoons, kayaks, canoes and much for that can be rented and is pretty inexpensive," explains Matthew E. about Campers Cove RV Park, with rental equipment available on-site.
Tips from RVers
Check electricity capacity: Power limitations exist at some rv campgrounds near Alpena, Michigan. "At the moment they have 50 or 20 amp power, so you will need a 15 or 50 adapter to use 30 amp service. No water at camp sites, but they have a water fill station," advises Gordon B. about Oscoda County Park.
Full hookup availability: For those requiring complete services, some campgrounds offer comprehensive hookups. "There are no restroom facilities in the CG but all the sites are FHU," notes MickandKarla W. about Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort. Their cement pads accommodate larger rigs.
Consider site dimensions: Site size varies significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are large, and some humongous. The campground is quiet, and the lake is right behind the campground," explains DonW about Ossineke State Forest Campground, noting many sites can accommodate larger setups.
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