Port Austin sits at the tip of Michigan's "thumb" on a peninsula extending into Lake Huron. The region features sandy beaches along Saginaw Bay with water depths staying relatively shallow for hundreds of feet offshore. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during peak camping season from June through August, while spring and fall visitors experience cooler conditions with overnight temperatures sometimes dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Kayak to Turnip Rock: Located minutes from Stafford County Park Campground, kayaking to the iconic Turnip Rock formation requires proper planning. "We found it by accident in 2024 in June. Stayed on the lakeside electric only site and loved it so much we had our last camp of the year there as well," notes camper Ray H. about the park's proximity to kayaking routes.
Birdwatching at dark sky preserves: The region offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in designated dark sky areas. "This campground is as about crowded as Yosemite floor campgrounds... birding trails are great. Bring a repellent for biting flies," advises RA S. about visiting Tawas Point State Park Campground.
Explore local fishing spots: Fishing opportunities abound in the thumb region's waters. "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," shares Gary S. about Sebewaing County Park's location.
What campers like
Sandy beach access: Lake Huron's sandy shoreline provides excellent swimming options. "Nice small campground on the shore of Lake Huron in Port Hope Michigan. Back in Full hook up and water/electric sites. Also cabins to rent. Marina in the campground," reports Sheila about Stafford County Park Campground.
Morning waterfront views: Many campgrounds offer spectacular sunrise opportunities over Lake Huron. "One thing I have to recommend is waking up early to catch the sunrise over Lake Huron. It is amazing!" shares Emma W. about camping at Tawas Point State Park Campground.
Pet-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds accommodate four-legged companions with designated areas. "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," notes Sasha K. about the special pet beach at Tawas Point.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Site quality can vary significantly within the same campground. "Site Quality: Varies greatly... Not all sites are level. Little privacy/separation between sites but if you can score a waterfront site, then it's all good," warns Lee D. about Port Crescent State Park Campground.
Advance reservations essential: Securing preferred sites requires planning months ahead. "Probably one of the most popular state parks in Michigan, and for good reason... The campground is located only a few short minutes from the launch site for Turnip Rock, so it's become very popular for weekend trips," explains Kate K. about Port Crescent.
Weather considerations: The region experiences changeable weather that can impact activities. "It was forecasted to rain during our visit to Port Crescent and we decided to brave it and hope the forecast would be wrong. It wasn't... there was literally nothing nearby to do in the rain," shares Ashleigh M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several parks offer child-friendly recreation areas. "The park contains a nice playground, and beach volleyball court near the entrance. There's a nice sandy beach that faces Tawas Bay in the campground," notes Marie H. about family options at Tawas Point.
Beach safety awareness: Parents should note water conditions vary between bay and lake sides. "The public beach on Lake Huron has rougher water and more rocks," advises Marie H. about Tawas Point State Park Campground when planning water activities with children.
Multi-generational camping traditions: The region supports family traditions spanning years. "This has been an annual destination for my family. We would camp here 2 weeks every summer with all of our relatives and basically turn this little place into home," shares Dave E. about Port Crescent State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Careful consideration of site specifications helps prevent difficulties. "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," warns Edward C. about Port Crescent State Park Campground.
Electric and water hookups: Check utility placement when setting up. "Small county park. Stayed at lakeside site. Lakeside sites $36 electric only. Full hookup $41 across a small dirt road, no traffic," explains John S. about Stafford County Park Campground.
Limited navigational access: Some campgrounds have challenging internal 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 maneuvering within Tawas Point State Park.
