Au Gres, Michigan camping destinations offer direct access to both Lake Huron shoreline and inland waterways. Located in Arenac County where the average summer high temperature reaches 81°F, the region features predominantly sandy soil conditions which provide well-draining campsites. Seasonal operation typically runs from April through October, with limited winter camping opportunities at select locations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Sleeper State Park Campground features multiple trail options through wooded areas. "Super cool bike trails!" notes visitor Maria G., highlighting the accessible routes for different skill levels.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rifle River Campground offers equipment rentals and river access with shuttle service. "A lot of fun going down the river on tubes! Typically not a family friendly location as it's more of a party campground," explains Danny S., indicating the lively atmosphere during summer weekends.
Fishing: At Point Au Gres Marina & Campground, boaters have direct access to prime fishing spots. "The WiFi is nice and the scenery being close to Lake Huron is enjoyable, especially in the morning sunrise hour," reports Jessica S., who purchased a seasonal site with boat slip.
Bird watching: Tawas Point State Park serves as a migratory stopover for numerous bird species. "This campground is as about crowded as Yosemite floor campgrounds... birding trails are great. Bring a repellent for biting flies," advises RA S., emphasizing the need for bug protection while enjoying the wildlife.
What campers like
Accessible beaches: Pinconning County Park offers shallow shoreline ideal for young swimmers. "The beach is shallow and great for young kids, we camped over memorial weekend and water was nice even then. They have nice beach chairs to use for free and kayaks you can rent," shares Jayne W.
Riverfront camping: At City of Au Gres Riverfront Campground, sites are positioned along the water. "Park is in town and on the river. Good people running it. Good size sites. Great walking paths," notes Kenneth W., highlighting both the location and amenities.
Boardwalk nature trails: Several campgrounds feature elevated walkways through wetland areas. "The coolest thing about this campground was the boardwalk it winds back through the woods and marsh and has a lot of raised Outlook platforms to view the scenery," explains Clint about Pinconning County Park.
Morning views: Browns Landing RV Park offers exceptional sunrise vistas over Lake Huron. "The sun rises here are my favorite. There is a bike path that goes all the way into Tawas. About 9 miles. It goes thru the woods and is just lovely with jasmine and lilac bushes and views of Lake Huron," describes tammy.
What you should know
Crowding factors: Tawas Point State Park Campground can become densely populated during peak season. "Always packed, very little cover, but surrounded by memorable beaches, walking trails, and not far from town," notes Donna B., suggesting planning for limited privacy.
Campsite terrain: Many camping areas near Au Gres have varied terrain. "The entire campground is on a hill. There are few - if any - level areas to camp, and very few hammock-friendly trees," explains Janine P. about Rifle River Campground.
Seasonal flooding: Low-lying campsites may experience wet conditions. "Our sites 1 and 2 were very wet and lots of frogs. We'd want the cement slab if we come back," advises Danielle C. about Pinconning County Park.
Water quality concerns: Natural water bodies may contain bacteria, particularly after heavy rains. "The water is not clean however, and if you find yourself floating down and feel the liquid courage kicking in telling you to climb a 100ft rock wall—DON'T," cautions Magy C., recounting a serious infection from a river accident.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Big Bend Campground offers multiple recreation options. "Canoe trips, pool, basketball court, camp store, rifle river, playgrounds, lots to do. Busy campground and I bit pricey but well worth the activities," shares Jami M.
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for easier monitoring. "The playgrounds were great because there are enough of them that we are able to keep an eye on the kids from the sites," mentions Courtney H. about Big Bend Campground.
Beach selection: Different beaches offer varying experiences for children. "The public beach on Lake Huron has rougher water and more rocks. There's even a separate dog friendly beach," notes Marie H. about Tawas Point State Park.
Campground activities: Some locations provide organized events. "Camp host had fun activities for the kids (my kids claim this was the best time of the trip) as well as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate," says tyler H. about Sleeper State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Sleeper State Park Campground, choose sites strategically. "We unfortunately were only able to get sites at the front and the road noise was obnoxious, 3 a.m. cars and trucks flying by," warns Nona A., suggesting requesting spots farther from M25.
Hookup availability: Most camping spots near Au Gres offer electric connections, but water and sewer options vary. "The hookups work good and the owners are very nice. There's occasional parties and events as well," reports Jessica S. about Point Au Gres Marina.
Road access: Some campgrounds have navigation challenges. "The access roads on the loop are narrow, so you may need to take some care of if you have a large vehicle," cautions Edward C. about Tawas Point State Park.
Amenities: Special features can improve RV camping comfort. "Bathrooms were clean, stocked, and had hot water for the showers whenever we needed it. On the opposite side of the bathroom, there's even a full dishwashing sink, something I have yet to see at another campground," shares Emma W. about Tawas Point.
