Port Austin camping spots feature diverse terrain along Lake Huron's sandy shorelines with varying water depths. Sites throughout the region range from open lakefront settings to more wooded inland options, with elevations generally remaining flat across the peninsula. Water temperatures in summer typically reach 65-70°F in July and August, while dropping to the 50s in early fall, affecting swimming conditions for tent campers especially.
What to do
Kayak to Turnip Rock: Located near Port Crescent State Park Campground, this unique geological formation requires water access. "This campground is close to Caseville, Bad Axe and Port Austin where I would recommend renting a kayak and checking out Turnip Rock (only accessible by H2O)," notes Timothy P.
Fishing opportunities: Stafford County Park offers shoreline fishing access for all ages. "Saw some boys with fishing poles," reports Lee D. after visiting in 2025. The park provides easy water access without needing a boat.
Birding and wildlife viewing: Tawas Point State Park Campground serves as an important migratory bird habitat. "It is an important stopping point for the migratory pattern of warblers in the spring, and has a very nice nature walk," explains Mark H. The nature trails lead to the lighthouse and beach areas.
Visit local lighthouses: Lighthouse Park offers direct access to its namesake structure. "You can tour the lighthouse for which the park is named for $5 per adult or $3 per child (but you can only climb to the top on select—usually holiday—weekends. The volunteers are very passionate about their knowledge of the lighthouse," shares Lee D.
What campers like
Sunrise and sunset views: Stafford County Park Campground provides exceptional morning light. "Walking along the beach, watching the sunrise or sunset, was incredible," writes Linda H. The eastern shoreline position creates optimal conditions for early risers.
Lake Huron beach access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access with varying shoreline types. "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 on the bay side of the point," notes Sasha K. about Tawas Point.
Family-friendly amenities: Port Crescent State Park provides organized activities and play areas. "There are nearby hiking trails, a playground, a basketball hoop, and a horseshoe pit," observes Lee D., highlighting recreation options beyond water activities.
Clean facilities: Lighthouse Park maintains well-kept shower buildings. "The bath/shower house was reasonably clean, but it took a few minutes for the motion light to go on," mentions Lee D., noting the functional if not perfect amenities.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind conditions can affect tent camping significantly. "When it rains it pours...It was a pretty miserable weekend. The sites are large but lack privacy. The bathhouse got pretty gross with all the mud," reports Ashleigh M. about her experience at Port Crescent State Park.
Site conditions vary widely: Even within a single campground, the quality of sites differs substantially. "Sites 1-4 in the Lakeview section are pull-through. All other sites are back in. Both rustic sites are truly tent-only," explains Lee D. about Stafford County Park.
Booking requirements: Many parks fill quickly, particularly waterfront locations. "Starting our 1st spring camp trip here in 2025," mentions Ray H. about Stafford County Park, indicating the need to plan ahead for the most desirable dates and locations.
Limited privacy between sites: Most campgrounds feature open layouts. "The sites are on grass and very close together with no separation/privacy between them, but the view of the lake makes it worth it," notes Lee D. about Lighthouse Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programming. "The campgrounds host site has coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available in the mornings. They also offer activities in the afternoon," shares Nona A. about Sleeper State Park Campground.
Consider playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience. "There is a playground, boat launch (separate fee), and reasonably priced firewood ($5/bundle)," notes Lee D. about Lighthouse Park.
Safety features: Look for campgrounds with controlled traffic patterns. "It's safe too. I have no problem with the kids going to the playground or riding their bikes and skateboards around the park," explains Zim L. about Port Crescent State Park.
Plan for weather variability: Have indoor backup activities. "Camp host had fun activities for the kids (my kids claim this was the best time of the trip) as well as tea, coffee, and hot chocolate," reports tyler H. about Sleeper State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose sites carefully based on access and conditions. "Be advised that the sites closer to the beach are very sandy. Larger campers may get stuck, especially after a rainstorm," warns Edward C. about Port Crescent State Park.
Electric service details: Campers Haven Family Campground offers electric sites without full hookups. "No FHU," notes Ashley I., indicating water and electric only. Consider tank capacity for longer stays.
Lakefront positioning: Strategic site selection impacts experience. "We stayed with friends in their 43-foot Class A in an electric site facing Lake Huron and the view was phenomenal! It would be a bummer if you had a site behind a large class A blocking your view of the lake," advises Lee D. about Lighthouse Park.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "The access roads on the loop are narrow, so you may need to take some care if you have a large vehicle," cautions Edward C. about Tawas Point State Park.
