Camping sites near Oscoda, Michigan offer extensive access to the AuSable River, Lake Huron shores, and pine forest settings within Michigan's northeastern coast. Most campgrounds in this area sit at approximately 585-600 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. The region's sandy soil allows for quick drainage after rain, making most sites usable even after wet weather.
What to do
Hiking to Lumberman's Monument: Take the Forest Observatory Trail from Monument Campground to learn about local history. One camper noted, "Lots to do nearby! Geocaching, canoeing, fishing or hiking to the nearby visitor center with a reproduction logging shanty or the educational programs in the pavilion."
Kayaking the AuSable: Launch from Old Orchard Park Campground for paddling access to the river. According to a visitor, "The campground has a small beach but it has not been allowed to be fully developed due to consumers energy wanting a natural rustic feel to the park. Kayaking, boating, pontooning, fishing-all beautiful."
Beach activities: Multiple swimming areas exist at East Tawas City Park, with one camper reporting, "The RV park is right on the beach and takes about 1 minute from the furthest campsite until your toes are in the sand. You can walk to downtown and eat at several restaurants, go to the movies, walk to Walmart."
Sand dune exploration: Visit the dunes near Lumberman's Monument for hiking and water access. A reviewer explains, "Just a mile or two walk to the dunes overlook where you can descend a 100+ ft sand dune down to the water and go for a swim."
What campers like
Beach access variety: Tawas Point State Park Campground offers diverse beach options. As one camper described, "The water areas range from nice sandy beaches to more marshy but scenic beaches, great for dog walking and enjoying birdwatching and sunsets!"
Lighthouse proximity: Walking distance to historic lighthouses adds interest to waterfront camping. A reviewer mentioned, "We love lighthouses and the campground is within walking distance to the campground. The lighthouse is beautiful and you have to see it at night!"
Dog-friendly swimming spots: Shallow water access makes pet recreation easier at several locations. One visitor at Tawas Point noted, "The pet friendly beach is fantastic for dogs as the water is very shallow and let's them be active."
Wildlife viewing: Bird migration patterns make certain seasons ideal for nature watching. A camper shared, "It is an important stopping point for the migratory pattern of warblers in the spring, and has a very nice nature walk."
What you should know
Campground access limitations: Many sites operate first-come, first-served with high demand. A review of Oscoda KOA mentioned, "This was a pretty basic/nice KOA. We went second week of July and it was pretty empty, which was nice for us."
Water contamination issues: Some lakes have water quality concerns. A camper at Van Etten Lake reported, "The lake is contaminated with PFAS. No dump station or potable water."
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near certain campgrounds with scheduled disruptions. Regarding East Tawas City Park, a camper warned, "There is a train. A very LOUD, slow moving train that blows its horn around 22 times when it goes by...it ran Monday-Friday and went by twice between 9:30pm-12:30am."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. Monument Campground offers 18 sites with basic amenities but limited services, with one camper noting, "Pay at entrance in envelope. Camp host came around to check our ticket. Clean pit toilets and water spigots throughout."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Harrisville State Park Campground offers family recreation areas. A camper mentioned, "The park roads are paved, but most of them are so narrow that two cars have trouble passing each other, add five thousand kids and bikes and it is nerve wracking to drive through."
Beach safety: Shallow water areas provide safer swimming for children. One visitor at Tawas Point noted, "Our family loves this campground- it has a nice playground, and beach volleyball court near the entrance. There's a nice sandy beach that faces Tawas Bay in the campground."
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds program specific children's events. As a camper at Oscoda-Tawas KOA explained, "This is my favorite camp ground! The facilities are nice, there is tons to do for kids, and the owners are awesome! The train does run late and sometimes in the middle of the night but the conductor comes and stands on the platform and waves to all the kids!"
Shower token systems: Some facilities require purchased tokens for showers. A visitor noted, "Lots of things to do in this area! The large campground is crowded in summer months and you have to buy tokens to take a shower, but the views and access to the River are spectacular."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Old Orchard Park Campground has specific length restrictions. A camper advised, "37' is the longest length recommended. We have a 42' 5th wheel and made it fit only because we were here during the off-season. There's no way we would of got the RV in if people had the vehicles parked in their campsite."
Water and electric locations: Utility hookups often require extended hoses or cords. One reviewer mentioned, "Water and electric are poorly located. Need extra hose/cords."
Seasonal storage options: Some campgrounds offer winter storage at reduced rates. A visitor explained, "On October 15th, the rates turned to seasonal and people can rent the spots to store their RV for the winter."
Year-round operations: Limited facilities maintain water service through winter. According to a camper, "The city turns the water off around the 3rd week in October. There is one bathroom building open for showers and you can also get water from the side of the office building to fill your tanks. You still have electricity and sewer at your site."
