Au Train, Michigan sits at the intersection of the Hiawatha National Forest and Lake Superior's southern shore, with an elevation ranging from 600-850 feet. The area experiences cold winters with lake effect snow and mild summers averaging 75°F high temperatures. Camping options include established campgrounds with vault toilets and rustic sites around Au Train Lake, with peak season running mid-June through late August.
What to do
Kayaking Au Train River: Access the river from Au Train Lake Campground for a gentle paddling experience. "We kayaked Au Train River and stood in the Au Train falls. The bird watch site at camp was amazing as well. Don't skip out on Pictured Rocks either," notes Chelsea & Wes J.
Explore historic sites: Visit the iron smelting ruins at Bay Furnace Campground. "We love the history of the campground with the bay furnace within the limits. Where they used to smelt iron in a 150 year old furnace is fascinating," writes Corey O., who appreciated the historical elements during their stay.
Wildlife observation: Many campgrounds feature educational trails with informative signage. "There is a great trail near our campsite that had signs and info about the birds in the area (great for young ones especially)," reports Jade G., highlighting the educational opportunities even within campground boundaries.
What campers like
Lake access for swimming: The inland lakes warm up faster than Lake Superior. "The water is beautiful and warmer than Lake Superior. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms," advises Raquel M., who spent an entire season at Au Train Lake. Swimmers can enjoy the smaller beaches without dealing with Superior's persistently cold temperatures.
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers minimal light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts. "Great Dark Sky View!" exclaims Jen W. about Forest Lake State Forest Campground, which provides an excellent vantage point for night sky viewing away from urban areas.
Wildlife encounters: Listen for native birds from your campsite. "Enjoyed listening to the loons, sandhill cranes and osprey!" shares Keenan about their Forest Lake experience, highlighting the natural soundscape that enhances the camping experience.
What you should know
Bug protection essential: The region's mosquitoes and flies can be relentless during summer months. "The mosquitoes are 24/7. We applied copious amounts of deet bug spray but these little buggers did not care," warns Shelly S. about Channel Marker Campsite. Bring multiple forms of repellent and protective clothing.
Campsite security concerns: Some visitors have experienced theft at unattended sites. "After we ate we cleaned up our site and left for a long day of exploring on a Saturday. We returned really late after dark to find someone had stolen all our firewood, headlamps, extra clothing from the tent, and a few other items," reports Kate K. about their experience at Au Train Lake Campground.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or no cellular coverage. "No cell service, however," notes Kelly C. about Otter Lake Campground. Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected or download maps and information in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming beaches for children. "There is a park on the lake with a small beach and a boat launch," says Amy K. about Au Train Lake, providing options for families seeking water recreation without navigating Superior's rougher shoreline.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for younger campers. "A lot of activities to do. There were kids everywhere," observes Melissa M. about Superior Times Campground, noting the family-friendly atmosphere with "a lot of outdoor toys."
Educational trails: Seek out nature paths with informative signage. "The bird watch site at camp was amazing as well," shares Chelsea & Wes J., highlighting opportunities for children to learn about local wildlife while exploring campground trails.
Tips from RVers
Electrical availability: Many campgrounds offer electric-only hookups without water connections. "Sites have electric but no water. Some road noise but that's to be expected," explains Victoria K. about Kewadin Casino, noting unexpected benefits like "$20 a night, not $15. You get a free $5 casino credit per night per person staying."
Site surface considerations: Be prepared for variable site conditions. "This is a very wide open center, or back in to Wooded sites. All site are very large and spacious. Picnic tables and site rings," reports Lauren M. about Pictured Rocks RV Park, adding "Most sites are concrete pads. Site 4 is gravel and very up hill."
Generator etiquette: Noise pollution can be an issue at rustic campgrounds. "Only down site people who are running their generators all day and night. Everyone was disturbed," reports Birgit H. about Forest Lake State Forest Campground, suggesting those needing constant power should consider campgrounds with electrical hookups.
Traveler
