Port Crescent State Park features newly renovated facilities that reopened after being closed for the 2024 season. Located at Michigan's thumb tip, the park offers a mix of campsites including paved and sandy sites, with varying levels of privacy and accessibility. Sites along the beachfront provide direct water access, while those backing up to M25 may experience road noise throughout the day.
What to do
Kayaking to Turnip Rock: Rent equipment in Port Austin for a paddling adventure to this natural landmark. Port Crescent State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for this popular activity. "This campground is close to Caseville, Bad Axe and Port Austin where I would recommend renting a kayak and checking out Turnip Rock (only accessible by H2O)," notes Timothy P.
Beach swimming and play: Bay City State Park provides sandy beaches along Lake Huron with additional family entertainment options. "The Spray by the Bay splash pad, a huge timber playground, beautiful sandy beach along Lake Huron, sandy swim area, geocaching, pavilions, well kept bathrooms and changing rooms" are all available according to Sarah S.
Birdwatching and nature trails: Explore the lagoon trail system at Bay City State Park for wildlife viewing opportunities. "The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets, blue heron, sand pipers and their babies," reports Jennifer H.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Recent renovations at Port Crescent have improved visitor experience. "The East Bathhouse was very modern and clean. The West Bathhouse looked to be a bit older but still seemed fine," writes Lee D. The park also offers "extensive recycling" facilities.
Spacious waterfront sites: Stafford County Park Campground provides lakeside camping with unobstructed views. "We stayed on the lakeside electric only site and loved it so much we had our last camp of the year there as well. Park is well kept and staff are very friendly and helpful," says Ray H.
Family-friendly amenities: Tawas Point State Park Campground offers activities for all ages. "A lot of fun things for kids, lots of adventures. Close to town," reports Wendy K. The park includes "a nice playground, and beach volleyball court near the entrance."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Port Crescent, not all sites are equal. "Not all sites are level. Little privacy/separation between sites but if you can score a waterfront site, then it's all good," notes Lee D. Sites backing to the road experience traffic noise.
Weather challenges: Prepare for rapid weather changes that can impact your stay. "When storms come in, make sure you have everything put away and your tent staked down reeeeeal good, cause I've definitely seen 60mph+ winds and tents end up in the trees," warns Ashleigh M.
Seasonal pests: May flies can be prevalent during summer months. At Bay City State Park Campground, "They do spray for mosquitoes, so that wasn't too bad at all even in the heat of August," according to Melissa H.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for rainy days: Pack indoor activities or research nearby attractions. "It was forecasted to rain during our visit to Port Crescent and we decided to brave it and hope the forecast would be wrong. It wasn't... there was literally nothing nearby to do in the rain," shares Ashleigh M.
Book early for premium sites: City of Au Gres Riverfront Campground offers riverside camping that fills quickly. "Park is in town and on the river. Good people running it. Good size sites. Great walking paths," notes Kenneth W.
Bring bikes: Many parks have paved pathways ideal for cycling. "The drive around the campground is all paved and very long, so be sure to bring your bikes!!" suggests Sarah S. about Bay City State Park.
Tips from RVers
Pack extension cords: Electric hookups may be inconveniently placed at some sites. "Lots of moving around to get your electric hooked up to the shared and oddly placed power poles. Make sure to come with an extension cord," advises Deb M. about Bay City State Park.
Consider site type for large rigs: Northern Bear Paw RV Park offers spacious sites for larger setups. "The campsites are nicely laid out with comfortable amenities. With a soothing creek whispering in the background of our campsite," reports Colin L.
Be aware of surface conditions: Sandy sites can present challenges after rain. "Be advised that the sites closer to the beach are very sandy. Larger campers may get stuck, especially after a rainstorm," warns Edward C. about Port Crescent State Park.
