Rose City, Michigan serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Located near dense forests and waterways like the AuSable River, the area experiences warm summers and cold, snowy winters with average temperatures ranging from 10°F in winter to 80°F in summer. Campers can access several RV parks within a 30-mile radius, with most offering seasonal availability from April through October.
What to do
Kayaking the AuSable: Access the river from Alcona Park in South Branch, where the waterway provides excellent paddling opportunities. "We especially love this campground because it is on the Alcona Pond and we bring our kayaks. We also do a day trip and kayak the river. The river is beautiful and we have seen Eagles and Cranes several times on our trip," notes one regular visitor.
Golf and relaxation: Play a round at Thunder Bay Golf and RV Resort near Hillman, which offers combined camping and golfing packages. "There are several 'packages' including camping and golf (if that's what you enjoy) and at times you can take a horse drawn Elk tour or participate in a Murder Mystery weekend," shares a camper.
Trail exploration: Walk through the Huron National Forest directly from Luzerne Express Campground & RV. "The area is a trail riders Mecca. From horseback riding to ATVs. There are horse pens available at the campground for overnight horse camping as well at a very reasonable rate. Walk right off the campground into the Huron National Forest," explains one reviewer.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers at rv parks near Rose City, Michigan appreciate the waterfront access. "Lovely views of the lake! Busy, but clean, friendly and quiet. Hiking trails and a playground for the kids," writes a visitor to Alcona Park.
Peaceful settings: Northern Bear Paw RV Park offers tranquility along the Au Gres River. "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."
Fish variety: Fishing opportunities abound in the region's lakes and rivers. "Caught lots of fish from walleye to crappie, even a 6.3lb small mouth bass!! Very nice campground that I will continue to camp at and recommend!!" shares an enthusiastic angler at Alcona Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between RV parks in the Rose City area. "Cell phone reception is nill here so do not plan to make or receive calls!" warns a camper about Alcona Park.
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require booking by phone rather than online. "The ladies are awesome at the office and so helpful. They do not have online booking and do not take credit cards over the phone. You have to mail in payment within two weeks of booking over the phone," explains a regular visitor about Alcona County Park's process.
Minimum stay requirements: Some Rose City area RV parks implement mandatory multi-night stays during peak season. "There is a five night min. stay during the summer so we wait until Labor Day weekend to avoid the five night min," notes a regular visitor to Alcona Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with activities: Secord Lake Campground provides water-based recreation options. "The Lakeview Campground is a great spot for water lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy the campground's updated amenities!" recommends a visitor.
Consider cabin options: For families without RVs, Alcona Park offers lakeside cabins. "I had cabin #3, very beautiful on the lake. Wish they had a grate to cook some things, however I failed to bring my own. It made do with what I had," shares a camper who opted for this alternative.
Plan for playground access: Several campgrounds around Rose City feature playgrounds. "Lovely views of the lake! Busy, but clean, friendly and quiet. Hiking trails and a playground for the kids," notes a visitor at Alcona Park, highlighting amenities beyond just camping spots.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Harrison RV Family Campground, formerly Camp Withii, seasonal spots book quickly. "We have camped here a couple of times now Gloria and Larry are awesome and we will be seasonal again," mentions a regular visitor.
Rustic site considerations: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some RV parks in the Rose City region. "Rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad. They have full, semi and rustic sites," advises a camper about Alcona Park's various site options.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant seasonal changes, with most RV parks closing between October and April. Pack appropriate clothing and supplies for temperature fluctuations during shoulder seasons when many Rose City area campgrounds remain open.
