The Thumb region of Michigan features several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Pigeon. These sites typically experience high humidity in summer months with temperatures averaging 75-85°F, while spring and fall camping brings 50-65°F temperatures with occasional rainfall. Waterfront sites fill quickly during the peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day, especially on weekends when local festivals draw additional visitors to the area.
What to do
Beach activities at Port Crescent: Located near Port Austin, the newly renovated Port Crescent State Park Campground offers sandy beaches with swimming access. "Beautiful, newly renovated park with a great beach and beach access. Be advised that the sites closer to the beach are very sandy. Larger campers may get stuck, especially after a rainstorm," notes Edward C.
Fishing opportunities: Sebewaing County Park sits along the river and near the lake, making it an angler's paradise. As Gary S. describes, "Nice place to stay, it's sitting just off of the river, and the lake is next to it, if you like fishing you're going to love it."
Cycling and trails: Many campgrounds in the region feature dedicated paths for bicycles. At Bay City State Park Campground, "The park is huge and there are lots of places to ride your bike," according to Stephanie C. The park also features "a long paved bike path" where Jennifer H. reported "a deer pass within 6 feet of us."
What campers like
Early morning water views: Waterfront sites at Sleeper State Park Campground offer memorable sunrise opportunities. Brooke L. writes, "The lake right next door is beautiful, will definitely be coming back during summer! Loved the secluded location of the camp and the quiet atmosphere, despite lots of people."
Family-oriented amenities: Campers appreciate the variety of activities available for children. "This is one of the best campgrounds for kids that I've ever visited! From the beach, to the splash pad, the huge playground, the hiking trails, fishing in the lagoon," Sarah S. observed about Bay City State Park.
Quiet camping off-season: Later in the season brings fewer crowds. As tyler H. noted about Sleeper State Park, "Went later September on a Saturday and it was perfect. Good mix of tents and rv's. Everyone was respectful and the whole campground was pretty quiet despite being essentially full."
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds have varied site types and conditions. At Port Crescent, "A real hodgepodge of options: paved sites, sandy sites, some with electric, hammock sites, several different types of cabins, and domes," according to Lee D., who added, "Not all sites are level. Little privacy/separation between sites but if you can score a waterfront site, then it's all good."
Road noise impacts some sites: When selecting a campsite, consider proximity to main roads. At Tawas Point State Park Campground, "Always packed, very little cover, but surrounded by memorable beaches, walking trails, and not far from town," reports Donna B.
Weather preparedness: Rain can significantly impact camping experiences in the region. Ashleigh M. cautions about Port Crescent: "It rained most of the day Saturday and Sunday. The bathhouse got pretty gross with all the mud and could use an update."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Tawas Point offers a dedicated pet area. "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. The water is warmer than on the Huron side of the point, too," notes Sasha K.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. At Evergreen Park Campground, "Park is very well kept, quiet, staff is friendly and plenty of things to do on site," says Kevin E. The Amish-style cabins are "absolutely amazing" according to Walker L.
Water play alternatives: Splash pads provide options when lake conditions aren't ideal. Sarah S. notes that Bay City has "the Spray by the Bay splash pad, a huge timber playground, beautiful sandy beach along Lake Huron, sandy swim area, geocaching, pavilions, well kept bathrooms and changing rooms."
Tips from RVers
Power connection planning: Electrical hookups at Campers Haven Family Campground provide convenience, but Ashley I. notes, "Sites are spacious enough to open an awning, but you definitely back right up to your neighbor." She adds the campground features "a heated indoor pool, jumping pillow, playground, trails and camp store. No FHU."
Extension cord requirements: Some campgrounds have oddly placed power connections. At Bay City State Park, Tanner G. recommends to "have extension cord for some sites, as plug in can be far. Website has pictures for sites and will advise if lot gets wet."
Seasonal conditions: Most campgrounds in the area are not year-round, typically operating April through October. At Oak Beach County Park, Mike C. found it "friendly, clean and nice beach," making it worth returning to and recommending to friends.
