Barton City sits in Alcona County, Michigan, surrounded by the Huron National Forest at an elevation of approximately 860 feet. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures around 80°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with several sites offering pond or river frontage for fishing and paddling opportunities.
What to do
Golfing and relaxing: Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort in Hillman offers a golf-centered camping experience with cement pad sites. "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," notes one camper who appreciated "the quiet" during their stay.
Paddling the AuSable: Alcona Park provides excellent water access with sites overlooking the AuSable River. "I love that all the sites are in view of the ausable River," writes a satisfied camper. Many visitors bring kayaks to explore both the pond and river areas, with one mentioning "we have seen Eagles and Cranes several times on our trip."
Mini-golf and water recreation: Campers Cove RV Park offers numerous family activities within the campground. "There are bikes, pontoons, kayaks, canoes and much for that can be rented and is pretty inexpensive. They also have putt putt golf which costs us 1.50 per person," shares a visitor, though they note the putt-putt course could use maintenance.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Alcona Park offers notably large sites compared to other rv parks near Barton City. "The lots are huge," writes one repeat visitor who has been camping there "for years, many years." Another camper specifically appreciates that "they pick up trash right at your site!"
Family-friendly facilities: Oscoda-Tawas KOA receives praise for its recreational options. "This is my favorite camp ground! The facilities are nice, there is tons to do for kids, and the owners are awesome!" writes one visitor. Another notes the "fabulous rec room for kids" and mentions the "outside playground with a jungle gym and other amenities."
Horse camping access: Luzerne Express Campground stands out for equestrian campers with direct trail access. "There are horse pens available at the campground for overnight horse camping as well at a very reasonable rate. Walk right off the campground into the Huron National Forest," explains a trail rider who found the staff "friendly" and "helpful."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: The Oscoda-Tawas KOA location sits near active train tracks that can affect light sleepers. "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!" shares one camper who found this unique. Multiple reviewers mention the train, with one noting it "came through at about 1:30am when I stayed."
Cell reception limitations: Many campsites around Barton City Michigan have spotty connectivity. At Alcona Park, a long-time visitor warns that "cell phone reception is nill here so do not plan to make or receive calls!" This makes it important to download maps and information before arrival.
Limited utilities at some sites: When booking at Alcona Park, note the electrical amperage limitations. One visitor cautions about "20 amp electricity on most sites" which may not support larger RVs with multiple appliances running simultaneously.
Tips for camping with families
Rental options for watercraft: Campers Cove provides convenient on-site boat rentals for families without hauling gear. A family of six found "bikes, pontoons, kayaks, canoes and much for that can be rented and is pretty inexpensive," making it easier to enjoy water activities without bringing equipment.
Kid-friendly amenities: Northern Bear Paw RV Park offers creek access that children enjoy. "With a soothing creek whispering in the background of our campsite, we set our camper up for a two week adventure," shares one visitor describing the peaceful setting.
Playground access: Ogemaw County Park provides facilities for children in a wooded setting. While primarily noted as a "nice quiet secluded campground in the woods" with "nice clean baths and showers," the park offers recreation space for children to burn energy after long drives.
Tips from RVers
Power requirements: Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort offers cement pads with full hookups for larger units. "Cement pads, full hookups, quiet, great WiFi," notes a reviewer who mentioned their 42-foot coach had no problems navigating despite initial concerns about "being able to maneuver the trees."
Winter accessibility: Northern Bear Paw RV Park remains open year-round while most campgrounds in the region close for winter. This makes it one of the few full-service RV parks near Barton City operating during colder months, important for seasonal campers or those traveling in shoulder seasons.
Campground wifi quality: For RVers needing connectivity, Campers Cove has significantly upgraded their internet infrastructure. A seasonal camper reports "the internet speeds were around 3 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload" but after upgrades they "are able to deliver a minimum of 25 Mbps down and up to each site" though notes "you may still need a booster to bring the signal into your trailer."
