Port Austin, Michigan offers diverse camping options along Lake Huron's shoreline. Located at the tip of Michigan's "Thumb," this area features sandy beaches and shallow swimming areas ideal for families. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access at some campgrounds, and summer temperatures typically range from 65-80°F with cooling lake breezes that help minimize mosquitoes.
What to do
Beach exploration: Port Crescent State Park Campground features a newly renovated park with excellent beach 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.
Kayaking to Turnip Rock: The campground at Port Crescent serves as a convenient base for this popular activity. "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)," shares Timothy P.
Lighthouse touring: Huron County's Lighthouse Park offers direct access to a historic lighthouse. "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," explains Lee D.
Biking: Browns Landing RV Park provides access to scenic bike paths. "There is a bike path that goes all the way into Tawas. About 9 miles. It goes thru the woods and is just lovely with jasmine and lilac bushes and views of Lake Huron," says tammy.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Stafford County Park Campground offers prime lakefront sites. "We stayed on a spot right on the lake. The park was clean and quiet. The other campers were all polite and respectful of one another and staff was very helpful and friendly," shares Kayleigh A.
Quiet atmosphere: Northern Bear Paw RV Park provides a peaceful setting. "Traveling in from Indiana, the country side relaxes your big city anxieties while calming the busy lifestyle in your rear view mirror. Pulling into the campground you notice a warm and welcoming couple greeting you, as if your were long lost cousins," reports Colin L.
Scenic sunrises: Stafford County Park is known for beautiful morning views. "Walking along the beach, watching the sunrise or sunset, was incredible. A nice little park, within walking distance of the town of Port Huron," notes Linda H.
Camping value: Many parks offer affordable options. "We stayed in a tent next to the water. We had a rustic site and it was only $24 with tax," mentions Stephanie M. about Stafford County Park.
What you should know
Site conditions: When RV camping near Port Austin, Michigan, consider ground conditions. "Beautiful views of lake Huron. Unfortunately lake height has taken away the beach. Best sites are lakeside and on the corner lots. Otherwise it feels a bit like a parking lot. No shade! Most of the trees have been lost to the emerald ash borer," cautions Jennifer H. about Lighthouse County Park.
Weather preparedness: Tawas Point State Park can experience significant weather variations. "Bring a repellent for biting flies. Watch for many kids bombing around on their bikes & bike trails," advises RA S.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for peak times. "Probably one of the most popular state parks in Michigan, and for good reason. Most of the park is located on the water and the views are pretty gorgeous. The sites are small, so we usually book two," explains Kate K. about Port Crescent.
Campground variability: Quality differs between parks. "This campground was disappointing to say the least. Bathrooms were nasty with fruit flies no toilet paper either. The dump station was in poor condition," reports Sara Y. about Tawas River RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Oscoda-Tawas KOA offers numerous family activities. "This is my favorite camp ground! The facilities are nice, there is tons to do for kids, and the owners are awesome! The beach is not on property but a close drive away and they do have a pool," shares cassie.
Playground options: Port Crescent State Park features multiple play areas. "There are nearby hiking trails, a playground, a basketball hoop, and a horseshoe pit," notes Lee D.
Train excitement: Some children enjoy the KOA's unique feature. "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! It was an awesome experience," explains cassie about Oscoda-Tawas KOA.
Shallow swimming areas: Tawas Point offers ideal conditions for younger swimmers. "The pet friendly beach is fantastic for dogs as the water is very shallow and lets them be active," mentions Edward C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For RV camping in the Port Austin region, choosing the right site matters. "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. It rained all day the second day of our stay and the dirt road and grassy areas accumulated quite a few puddles," shares Lee D. about Lighthouse County Park.
Seasonal considerations: Northern Bear Paw RV Park provides year-round camping with full hookups. "This place is gorgeous. Owners have done a great job with the property. Pine trees left intact. It sits on the Au Gres River trail to the river with seating, picnic table and fire pit. The grounds are immaculate. Very peaceful setting," explains Nellie.
Navigation challenges: Some parks require careful maneuvering. "Narrow and tight, lots of tents, pop ups and sand. Nicely treed area though and of course next to the lake," notes David B. about Port Crescent.
Utility reliability: Check hookup quality before setting up. "Most pads are gravel newly refreshed. Fire rings are new. Electric boxes are new 20-50 amp," reports John S. about Stafford County Park.
