Located on the western shore of Saginaw Bay, Kawkawlin, Michigan sits at an elevation of 584 feet with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. The area experiences significant seasonal variation with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Camping options around Kawkawlin range from full-service RV parks to rustic tent sites, with several offering glamping accommodations for those seeking elevated comfort.
What to do
Water activities on Saginaw Bay: The Kawkawlin area provides direct access to Saginaw Bay with several camping locations offering boat launches or water access. At City of Au Gres Riverfront Campground, campers can enjoy both river and bay recreation. "Park is in town and on the river. Good people running it. Good size sites. Great walking paths," notes Kenneth W.
Biking on paved trails: Many campgrounds feature paved pathways perfect for family cycling. Bay City State Park Campground offers extensive biking opportunities. "The drive around the campground is all paved and very long, so be sure to bring your bikes!!" reports Sarah S. The park also connects to longer regional trails.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bird watching is particularly rewarding in the wetlands surrounding Saginaw Bay. Jennifer H. at Bay City State Park Campground shares, "The nature trail around the lagoon is a birder's dream. We saw white egrets, blue heron, sand pipers and their babies." Observation towers along trails provide elevated viewing points.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Many campgrounds prioritize bathroom cleanliness. At Pine Ridge RV Campground, Dawn W. reports, "The bathrooms are key for me and are very clean. There shower are private and are quarter operated. This is our go-to when in the area."
Family-oriented activities: Organized events make glamping close to Kawkawlin, Michigan particularly appealing for families. Phil T. at Evergreen Park Campground enjoyed the social atmosphere: "Stayed there again over Labor Day weekend and had awesome time. Horseshoe and cornhole tournament was the best."
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the lakeside accommodations. Edward C. from Tawas Point State Park Campground notes, "Sites are large in general with plenty of room for activities. The pet friendly beach is fantastic for dogs as the water is very shallow and lets them be active."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially for premium sites or glamping structures. Tanner G. from Bay City State Park Campground advises, "Can book day of until 8pm online. Easy to get into late at night. Big lots. Fire pit. Sites are electric only. Recommend to have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far."
Site conditions vary considerably: Not all sites are created equal, even within the same campground. At Tawas Point State Park Campground, Sasha K. observes, "The campsites themselves are sadly devoid of much shade, and only a few even have a water view." Research specific site numbers before booking.
Seasonal considerations: The camping season generally runs May through October, with limited options during winter months. Matt S. at Bay City State Park Campground notes, "We were there in the middle of the week so it was not packed or loud. It is located north of Bay City by a little bit, so if a night out in the city is what you want it is easy to do."
Tips for camping with families
Beach alternatives: When lake conditions aren't ideal, look for alternatives. At Covenant Hills Camp, families find numerous water activities. Jenny A. notes, "Very convenient for me we stay they and I can drive to work. Lots to do, kayaking, fishing, the blob much more. Clean and friendly."
Playground accessibility: When selecting a site with children, consider proximity to play areas. Phil M. from River View Campground advises, "Although we didn't stay in the Family area it looked very nice. We had a great time at the campground and would 100% stay again."
Budget-friendly rentals: Several campgrounds offer affordable equipment rentals. Alyssa C. at Otter Lake Park Campground shares, "The lake is soooo beautiful and you can rent kayaks $7/hour or a 2 person small boat for $10/hour. Laundry facility is nice and cheap, with a great sink to wash dishes."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Electric hookups at some campgrounds can require planning. Deb M. from Bay City State Park Campground cautions, "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 - one member of our party had their power halfway into their neighbor's site through a bunch of bushes."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Edward C. from Tawas Point State Park Campground advises, "The access roads on the loop are narrow, so you may need to take some care of if you have a large vehicle."
Night lighting etiquette: Consider neighbors when using exterior RV lighting. Melissa H. at Bay City State Park Campground suggests, "It would be nice if there was an RV lights out policy at night. It's really hard to sleep in a tent when your neighbors RV 'porch' light is on literally all night shining in the tent while your neighbors are sound asleep in RV."
