218 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Luzerne, Michigan is surrounded by multiple forested campgrounds offering diverse lodging options from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. The Huron National Forest provides the backdrop for several camping areas, including Luzerne Express Campground and nearby state forest campgrounds. Tent sites, RV hookups, and rustic cabins are available throughout the region. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though some like Au Sable River Primitive Camping operate year-round. Visitors to the area can find both drive-in access and boat-in opportunities, particularly along the Au Sable River, which serves as a natural corridor through the region.
Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping in the Luzerne area, with many state forest campgrounds closing after October. Winter camping options are more limited but available at select locations like Oscoda County Park, which provides cabins and operates through December 1st. Roads to dispersed sites may become difficult to navigate during spring thaw or following heavy rainfall. Drinking water availability varies significantly between developed and primitive sites, with many forest campgrounds offering only vault toilets and hand pumps. The region features several campgrounds specifically designed for ORV and ATV enthusiasts, providing direct trail access. One camper noted that "the area is a trail riders Mecca. From horseback riding to ATVs. There are horse pens available at the campground for overnight horse camping as well at a very reasonable rate."
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly sites along Lake Huron and the Au Sable River. Canoe harbors and boat-in campsites create unique access points throughout the region. Several state forest campgrounds like Rainbow Bend and Canoe Harbor provide designated canoe camping areas. More developed options like Oscoda County Park offer electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations for RVs. The primitive sites tend to be more peaceful and secluded, with many featuring direct water access. A visitor described one area as "secluded, has an outhouse and bear food locker. Most impressive though is the short walk from camp to the amazing Lake Michigan beach shore." Campers appreciate the mix of forested sites and waterfront access, with many reviewers highlighting the fishing opportunities and natural beauty of the region.
"The absolute BEST campsite I have ever camped at in Michigan! The perfect morning and evening view of the river. Directly across from the best fishing spot and shoreline to soak up the summer sun."
"You are surrounded by forest and dunes and the sites themselves provide ample space for a group of 5 or more."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Access to the river was good and the sites were a decent size with privacy in between. We enjoyed walking some of the nearby trails"
"The access to the river is fantastic, with multiple trails and access points easily accessible with a short walk. The facilities are well maintained and spaced out well throughout the camp."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Love this park, right down the street from our family cabin and you get the best views of the Au Sauble river for miles around."
"There are a few sites on the lake and a boat launch. Sites have tables, pits and trees. They are also well separated with trees. Pretty easy access to the campground and the place was clean."
"Nice rustic campground located just north of west branch. No showers, privy is is decent shape. Not the worst not the best. Several lake front sites to choose from with excellent views."
"I stayed here and rode dirt bikes from jere and swam in the lake afterwards. It was refreshing and there is a small sandy area to swim out of. The lake is very peaceful and quiet."
"Lake is cute and ORV trails were great."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"We were able to get a site right on the lake. The Beaver loop sites have a hand pump available for water. The warbler loop has a spout on what must be pump house next to the host's site."
"we like rustic and not too many people and to be near a lake."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"After a short mile or so hike over a mostly level sandy trail you'll reach to the campground. It's located in a part of the forest with lots of ridges."
"Short backpacking walk to this no-reservations rustic campsite. You need a backcountry permit and there’s usually a small fee. Lovely forested secluded tent sites."
"If you like to rough it, but be able to drive to your campground, this is your place. Get back to nature here with no running water or electric."
"This here is one of my favorite campgrounds in Michigan. The facilities are clean and kept up. All access to trails, lakes and the river are close and easy to get to."
"Rifle River Recreation Area is located directly east of Houghton Lake within the AuSable State Forest, near the city of Lupton. The RRRA offers several camping areas within its borders."
"A few trails walking distance from the campground. The old growth trail is beautiful and really well maintained. The trees are crazy TALL."
"Some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I’ve seen."
RangerFairly easy to get to... last couple miles you'll want to pay attention to ruts and potholes. Tiny loop at the end, with room for 6-8 tent campers or 3-4 small travel trailers. Not big rig friendly. Little buggy, very muggy. Surprised to see other people here. 3 other parties and myself. Quiet, though. Okay place for a one nighter.
GuideJust passing through on my way home from the upper peninsula and decided to camp rather than getting a hotel as I always have my camping gear in the back of my truck. Great campsites and most of them are separated very well. Hiking trails nearby and good fishing right on tomahawk lake. I was here on a Sunday and Monday and had the place to myself. Very peaceful
GuideThis spot is an open pull-off in state forest land. Clean, safe and quiet - no road traffic at night and sparse during day.
GuideBeen here many times! Great place to stay, no hookups but has a pump well and vault bathrooms. Great for fishing kayaking. I’ve seen otters swimming and bald eagles flying around on a regular. I think I’ve been here every month out of the year over the past 25 years or so. Also T-Mobile service is decent.
Scoutfine if you just need a place to pitch a tent, ground is hit or miss and some spots are uneven. The river is the only real draw, bugs still come out and weekends get loud with rowdy groups. Bathrooms are meh
TravelerStayed at Tawas State park in October of 2025. was not crowded and the park was very clean. Nice shower houses, campfire rings and tables. Nice walking paths and the walk to the lighthouse and beach was a nice clean trail. Not to many water views from the campground, but could be seen with a short walk.
ScoutThe manger is very rude disrespectful and threatening. He blew out the door like he was going to abuse someone swearing yelling and threatening. Not a way to run a business.
ScoutOnly camper in cluster of sites. Very quiet and peaceful. Only negative is that the lake is very low and not really a part of the camping experience
TravelerDecent amount of road and ORV noise, great spot to get things on the MI shore to shore trail.
Camping near Luzerne, Michigan offers extensive ORV and ATV trail access with direct connections to campgrounds throughout the region. Situated at approximately 1,100 feet elevation, this area contains numerous small inland lakes within the Huron National Forest. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, making sleeping comfortable even without air conditioning.
ORV trail riding: Access trails directly from Meadows ORV Campground with connections to surrounding towns. "There is also a direct 9 mile trail into closest town with a gas station/campground that offers 2$ showers, laundry, beer and cheap but good all you can eat breakfast buffet on weekends!"
Kayaking small lakes: Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground provides calm water access for beginners. "The lake is small but good for kayak & paddle boarding. Areas of sand but fairly murky. We swam and floated for a few hours in tubes."
Fishing: Multiple locations offer different fishing environments from lakes to rivers. "This is a great place to use as a fish camp. It on the south branch of the Au Sable River. Many things to do."
Hiking: Trail networks connect many campgrounds, ranging from short walks to multi-day options. "We enjoyed walking some of the nearby trails" through wooded areas with varied terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities.
River access: Au Sable River Primitive Camping sites provide direct water entry points. "Beautiful spots, nicely spaced, right on the water. Ranger stopped in to say hey each day. I plan on going back before it gets too busy."
Site privacy: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural buffers. "Campsites were spacious and had nice stands of trees in between to provide privacy. Fire rings had a great design."
Swimming opportunities: Natural sand beaches at select locations provide safe entry points. "The absolute BEST campsite I have ever camped at in Michigan! The perfect morning and evening view of the river. Directly across from the best fishing spot and shoreline to soak up the summer sun."
Night sounds: Natural soundscapes enhance the camping experience. "Night sounds are so relaxing" with minimal light pollution allowing for excellent stargazing at most sites throughout the region.
Water availability: Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground and similar rustic sites have limited facilities. "Vault toilets were kept clean and stocked. Paths from campsites connect to the Au Sable and to hiking trails."
Road conditions: Access to more remote sites requires preparation. "The dirt road from the hwy to the campground is really-really rough.. drive slow."
Winter closures: Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October. The more developed Oscoda County Park remains open until December 1st with heated cabin options available.
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly between locations. "Verizon = 3-4 bars 5G" at Au Sable River Primitive Camping, but service can be non-existent at more remote locations.
Site reservations: Many forest campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "Find you site and register at the gate. Good sized sites with privacy."
Kid-friendly water access: Look for gradual entry points at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground for safer swimming. "Our site had a nice shortcut through the woods that exited by the lake and bathrooms."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs during summer months. "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."
Safety considerations: Select sites with appropriate terrain for your children's ages. "It was a bit stressful as our site had a significant drop off to the river below. This meant we were constantly chasing our crazy kid to ensure he didn't take a tumble down. There are sites with a much less significant drop off."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple locations offer opportunities to spot local animals. "We were fortunate enough to see mink, beaver, muskrat, loons, eagle, osprey and three swan...so it was a treasure trove for us."
Site selection: Muskrat Lake State Forest Campground accommodates various RV sizes but preparation is essential. "There are no lights or hookups so you need to bring a generator for electricity. There also aren't any people working here regularly so make sure you are prepared for anything that might happen."
Electrical options: Electric service varies between 20-50 amp connections when available. "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."
Leveling requirements: Sites typically require some adjustment. "Nice and level site. Well maintained grounds, with a fire pit and picnic table."
Dump station access: Limited facilities mean planning ahead for longer stays. "More developed options like Oscoda County Park offer electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations for RVs."
Frequently Asked Questions
What outdoor activities can you enjoy when camping in Luzerne, Michigan?
The Luzerne area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Trail riding is extremely popular, with the region serving as a hub for horseback riding, ATV, and snowmobile trails. The surrounding forests and waterways provide excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Near Luzerne, Devoe Lake Rustic Campground in the Rifle River Recreation Area offers easy access to trails, lakes, and river activities. For water recreation, De Cheau Lake Camping provides a secluded lakefront experience where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, and paddling. During winter months, the area transforms for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.
What camping facilities are available at Luzerne Michigan campground?
Luzerne Express Campground & RV offers comprehensive facilities for campers of all preferences. The campground features a variety of sites including RV spots with hookups and cabins that are available year-round, making winter camping accessible. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful. For those seeking alternatives near Luzerne, Tomahawk Lake State Forest Campground provides a more rustic experience with first-come, first-served sites. This campground borders Tomahawk Lake and is surrounded by Atlanta State Forest Area, offering a more primitive camping experience with basic amenities like fire rings and vault toilets.
Where is Luzerne Michigan located and how do I get there?
Luzerne is a small community located in northeastern Michigan's Oscoda County, nestled in the picturesque Au Sable River Valley. It's approximately 20 miles east of Mio and about 60 miles southwest of Alpena. To reach Luzerne, take I-75 to West Branch, then follow M-33 north, or take US-23 along Lake Huron and connect via M-65 or F-41. The area is home to Luzerne Express Campground & RV, making it a great base for exploring this region of Michigan's northern forest lands. Several state forests surround the area, providing easy access to outdoor recreation.
Keep Exploring
