Hubbard Lake sits in Alcona County at 727 feet above sea level with significant temperature variations between its summer 80°F highs and winter lows below 15°F. The lake covers 8,850 acres and reaches depths of 85 feet, creating distinct camping conditions around its 22-mile shoreline compared to nearby forest campgrounds. Cell service drops significantly within 3 miles of the lakeshore in multiple directions.
What to do
Kayaking on area waterways: Ossineke State Forest Campground provides access to Lake Huron with shallow entry points. "The campground is quiet, and the lake is right behind the campground. A nice sandy shoreline and shallow water makes for a relaxing day," notes DonW. Multiple campers mention the crystal-clear water quality.
Golfing packages: Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort combines camping with golf access. MickandKarla W. shares, "There are some '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." The resort's course is described as both fun and challenging.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple spots for bank fishing exist within walking distance of campsites at Alcona Park. Ralph E. reports, "caught lots of fish from walleye to crappie, even a 6.3lb small mouth bass!!" The park offers both river and lake fishing access within the same area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Northern Bear Paw RV Park maintains natural vegetation. Nellie notes, "Owners have done a great job with the property. Pine trees left intact." The park sits on the Au Gres River with dedicated river access.
Indoor amenities: Campers Cove RV Park offers more protection from weather with Alexandra M. mentioning, "there is an indoor pool" among other amenities like putt-putt golf and a fishing pond separate from the waterfront sites.
Walking trails: Several campgrounds feature dedicated walking paths. Carol W. from Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort explains, "Although you are nestled amidst the golf course, you can walk the cart paths before or after the days golfers." These paths connect different sections of larger properties.
What you should know
Cell service patterns: Coverage varies significantly across the region with better reception in larger towns. J.D. N Chris H. notes that Campers Cove has undergone significant technology upgrades: "We teamed up with Spectrum to revamp their old television cable system to strictly a broadband internet delivery. We have 3 separate networks now, each with 600 Mbps capability."
Site leveling challenges: Not all sites are naturally level, particularly at rustic locations. Ralph E. reports about Alcona Park: "rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad... some rustic sites could use some dirt to level them up but manageable."
Water pump reliability: Several campgrounds report maintenance issues with water access. DonW mentions at Ossineke State Forest Campground, "at least two water pumps are without handles, one was with out a handle three years ago as well, so the missing handles may be part of the campground management plan."
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: On-site recreation varies significantly between parks. Matthew E. shares about Campers Cove: "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."
Playground accessibility: Oscoda County Park provides basic play equipment. Gordon B. notes the park has "a small playground for the kids" while other reviewers mention the open field layout accommodates informal games.
Pet supervision requirements: Strict animal control enforcement exists in some areas. A reviewer cautions about an incident where a dog with temporarily empty water was taken by authorities even with someone nearby: "My uncle came out of the camper and the dog was gone... My cousin came back from the kayaking trip and my uncle told him what happened."
Tips from RVers
Electrical compatibility: Adapters may be needed at certain parks. Gordon B. warns about Oscoda County Park: "At the moment they have 50 or 20 amp power, so you will need a 15 or 50 adapter to use 30 amp service. No water at camp sites, but they have a water fill station."
Site dimensions for larger RVs: Several rv sites near Hubbard Lake, Michigan can accommodate substantial rigs. Carol W. from Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort initially had concerns: "we were worried about being able to maneuver the trees with our 42 ft coach but no worries!" Their pull-through sites specifically accommodate longer vehicles.
Winter accessibility: For RVers seeking year-round camping options near Hubbard Lake, Michigan, Colin L. notes that Northern Bear Paw RV Park provides winter access: "Traveling in from Indiana, the country side relaxes your big city anxieties while calming the busy lifestyle in your rear view mirror." The park maintains year-round operations unlike many seasonal facilities in the region.
