Auburn-area RV parks provide various camping experiences for visitors touring central Michigan. The region features sandy soil with elevations ranging from 600-750 feet, making most RV sites naturally well-drained. Spring and fall camping can bring significant temperature swings, with nighttime lows sometimes dipping into the 40s even during May and September.
What to do
Explore lake access points: Northern Bear Paw RV Park features the Au Gres River with dedicated trails leading to seating areas and river access. "With a soothing creek whispering in the background of our campsite, we set our camper up for a two week adventure in this northwestern part of Michigan," notes one camper who appreciated the natural water features.
Bike the paved trails: Bay City State Park Campground offers extensive paved biking paths throughout the property. "There is a long paved bike path where we had a deer pass within 6 feet of us," shared a visitor who also enjoyed "hiking out to the watch towers."
Visit nearby water attractions: Many Auburn-area campgrounds provide convenient access to water recreation. One camper at Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park noted, "We did not use the soaring eagle water park, but were told that the use of the water park is included in your stay at the RV park."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at RV parks near Auburn. A visitor to Bay City State Park mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers were very clean, smelled of bleach. The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream."
Spacious sites: Site sizes vary significantly between campgrounds. At Pine Ridge RV Campground, one reviewer noted, "Nice pull through sites, some are tight, but none are impossible. Knowledgeable and friendly staff."
Natural shade: Many campsites feature mature trees providing relief from summer heat. A camper at Pine Ridge appreciated the "lots of tall pines and hardwoods providing good cover," which creates a more comfortable camping environment during hot weather.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most Auburn RV parks operate from spring through fall only. Ogemaw County Park West Branch RV Park runs from April 1 to October 24, while Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park operates from April 1 to October 31.
Varied pet policies: While most parks allow pets, enforcement of rules differs between locations. At Pine Ridge RV Campground, some campers have noted strict pet monitoring, with one mentioning that managers "continued circling our site in their golf cart, closely watching us."
Reservation challenges: Harrison RV Family Campground (previously Camp Withii) garners positive reviews but some note communication difficulties. A Pine Ridge visitor reported it's "very difficult to get ahold of via phone prior to visit," suggesting advanced planning is necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Bay City State Park Campground offers extensive family amenities. One camper called it "one of the best campgrounds for kids that I've ever visited" noting "the Spray by the Bay splash pad, a huge timber playground, beautiful sandy beach along Lake Huron, sandy swim area, geocaching."
Consider activity schedules: Some parks offer organized events. At Bay City State Park, a camper shared they did "a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn."
Check beach conditions: Water quality varies at different parks. A Bay City State Park camper cautioned, "The water at the beach is pretty murky with a lot of green algae, we are told by locals the water is nicer at the far end of the beach near the private houses."
Tips from RVers
Extension cords needed: At many Auburn-area campgrounds, electrical connections may be inconveniently placed. A Bay City State Park camper advised, "Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far. Website has pictures for sites and will advise if lot gets wet."
Consider site location: The positioning of campsites impacts overall experience. At Finn Road Park in Essexville, a reviewer appreciated that "sites are concrete pads and level! Sites are mostly shaded," while noting "Getting to this campground is an adventure."
Check hookup specifics: RV parks vary in what they offer. Finn Road Park provides "water electric, sewer, cement pad," according to one camper, while others like Ogemaw County Park offer electric and water hookups without sewer connections at individual sites.
