Glamping in Harrisville, Michigan centers around the Lake Huron shoreline with water-based recreation opportunities at every turn. The area features sandy beaches along Saginaw Bay with water temperatures reaching the mid-70s during summer months. Winter glamping options remain available with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through March.
What to do
Beach exploration at Port Crescent: Located on Saginaw Bay, Port Crescent provides extensive shoreline access with both swimming and fishing opportunities. "The beach was a little small, but water levels are high this year. DNR staff were pleasant, helpful and good at being present," notes Timothy P.
River paddling adventures: The Rifle River Recreation Area offers multiple lake access points for water activities beyond standard glamping. "The kids tossed on their PFD's and floated the river from the bridge to our site. You could hear them having a great time...other than their run in with a territorial beaver," shares Dave V. at Devoe Lake Rustic Campround.
Night sky observation: Port Crescent provides a dedicated observation platform for stargazing away from light pollution. "There are nearby hiking trails, a playground, a basketball hoop, and a horseshoe pit," reports Lee D., mentioning the observation platform "for bird watching or night sky viewing."
Island paddling: Jewell Lake includes an island exploration opportunity for those bringing watercraft. "The lake has an island in the middle and is great to explore by boat. Not sure how much there is to do without watercraft, as there's just a really short trail," advises Amber A. at Jewell Lake Campground.
What campers like
Private sites with tree cover: The Harrisville area campgrounds often feature wooded sites that provide separation from neighbors. "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded my trees," notes Daniel C. about the Rifle River Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Washroom facilities receive regular maintenance at most glamping locations. "The bathrooms are 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 State Park Campground.
Nature trails with varied difficulty: Walking paths connect to many points of interest throughout the region. "There are many options to stay here! Highly recommend," states Rachel S., noting the family-friendly nature of Old Orchard Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the region provide productive fishing experiences. "There is a really nice observation tower and fishing pier on Grebe Lake. You can't keep the bluegills and sunfish off your hook," reports Dave V. about lake fishing in the region.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Many campgrounds fill quickly, particularly during summer months. "For most of the sites here, it is first come first served. We have driven all the way there before and not been able to get in," warns Stephanie C. about Old Orchard Park Campground.
Variable site conditions: Quality and layout differ significantly between sites and campgrounds. "Varies greatly. We were able to secure two different sites for our two-night stay. Upon arrival, however, we doubted we would be able to navigate our 18-foot camper van into Site 58– it was sandy, narrow with trees," explains Lee D. about Port Crescent.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. "No Verizon cell service," notes Raven at Old Orchard Park Campground, adding "it doesn't work for me if I can't car camp and if there's no cell service to work."
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal changes. "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," cautions Dave E. about coastal camping conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "The campground is well maintained and you can hear the waves of the water at night! The lighthouse is beautiful and you have to see it at night! The beach area is great," describes Stephanie C. about Tawas Point State Park.
Beach safety monitoring: Water conditions vary by location and season. "The dog beach, a bit of a walk down the trail towards the lighthouse, surely exceeded our expectations. The shallows go out quite far, and is pleasantly sandy," notes Sasha K. about the swimming areas at Tawas Point.
Activity planning: Many glamping sites near Harrisville offer organized recreation options. "This KOA has so many activities for kids and we enjoyed ourselves here!" shares Bailey about the Oscoda KOA, which provides structured entertainment for younger visitors.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region hosts diverse animal species for nature observation. "We were fortunate enough to see mink, beaver, muskrat, loons, eagle, osprey and three swan...so it was a treasure trove for us," recounts Dave V. about the wildlife viewing potential.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement challenges: Hook-up locations can present logistical issues. "Water and electric are poorly located. Need extra hose/cords," advises Tracey R. about site design at Old Orchard Park.
Site selection considerations: Some RV sites present access difficulties based on size or terrain. "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 Campground.
Year-round accessibility: Some facilities maintain winter operations for four-season glamping. "Traveling in from Indiana, the countryside relaxes your big city anxieties while calming the busy lifestyle in your rear view mirror," shares Colin L. about his experience at Northern Bear Paw RV Park, which operates year-round.
Dump station availability: Waste disposal facilities vary by location. "Bathrooms are clean, but very outdated and run down. Showers run on tokens/quarters and do not have a temperature control," reports Tracey R., noting the sanitary facilities at Old Orchard Park.
