Camping near Sand Lake, Michigan offers diverse outdoor experiences within the eastern reaches of the AuSable State Forest. The terrain features a mix of pine-dominated woodlands, inland lakes, and river access points with elevations ranging from 580 to 820 feet. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from mid-May through early October, with peak season falling between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
What to do
Bird watching opportunities: At Tawas Point State Park Campground, the point serves as a critical migratory stopover. "It is an important stopping point for the migratory pattern of warblers in the spring, and has a very nice nature walk. The nature walk leads out to the lighthouse by the bay, and comes up to the beach," notes Mark H.
Kayaking the AuSable River: The river provides excellent paddling routes for all skill levels with multiple access points. "We come here every summer for our annual Au Sable kayak trip! The campground is nice and clean with a good amount of space between sites. What's really awesome about this place is if you pay a little extra, they will provide dropoff and pickup of both your party and all your kayaks," explains Kelsey P. from Rollways Campground.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: The region offers trails with elevated views of forests and waterways. "The overlook tower is definitely worth the hike and there's a hidden surprise at the same location for those who know where to look," shares Tasha T. about trails near Devoe Lake Rustic Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds provide well-separated camping areas under mature trees. "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded by trees," reports Daniel C., highlighting the natural setting that appeals to tent campers seeking seclusion.
Freshwater swimming options: From inland lakes to Lake Huron beaches, the region offers diverse swimming spots. "The dog beach, a bit of a walk down the trail towards the lighthouse, surely exceeded our expectations. Most places designate barely usable waterfront areas to dog beach... it becomes clear that this beach is quite simply lovely, even for human use. The shallows go out quite far, and is pleasantly sandy," explains Sasha K. of Tawas Point State Park Campground.
Campground amenities: Facilities vary widely from rustic to full-service. "The bathrooms were clean, stocked, and had hot water for the showers whenever we needed it. On the opposite side of the bathroom, there's even a full dishwashing sink, something I have yet to see at another campground," notes Emma W. about her experience camping in the region.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds have active railroad tracks nearby. "A very LOUD, slow moving train that blows its horn around 22 times when it goes by. When we were here, it ran Monday-Friday and went by twice between 9:30pm-12:30am. The train tracks are right across the road from the RV Park so the closer you are to the road, the louder the train will be," warns Erika P. about East Tawas City Park.
Reservation systems vary: Each campground has different booking procedures and timeframes. "You can make reservations for the campground starting April 1st via telephone; however they do not answer the phone as they are busy helping the seasonal campers get their sites. I do not get through until about three or four days after April 1st... They do not have online booking and do not take credit cards over the phone," explains Stephanie C. about Alcona Park.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is unreliable throughout much of the region. "Cell phone reception is nill here so do not plan to make or receive calls!" cautions Stephanie C. about certain campgrounds in the area, making it important to download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "The campground has a nice playground, and beach volleyball court near the entrance. There's a nice sandy beach that faces Tawas Bay in the campground, the public beach on Lake Huron has rougher water and more rocks," suggests Marie H.
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer learning experiences for children. "Quiet campground with lots to do. Hike to the nearby monument and attend one of their educational programs, visit the museum, take the steps down to the floating shanty, or visit the small store," recommends Becky K. from Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center.
Seasonal activities: Plan around special events for extra family fun. "The camp grounds have electrical and water access for RVs and campers, but people also camp out in their tents, and everything in between. There is a small playground that my daughter enjoyed, and a paved pathway through the grounds to Rollerblade/bike on," shares Mark H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs rather than just availability. "We had site 53, which is a 30 amp back in site. These sites are by the marsh. Unfortunately, we had no clear view of the marsh due to summer foliage. Bugs were buggy, but it's summer," notes Cynthia K. from Oscoda-Tawas KOA.
Limited hookup options: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Sand Lake offer only partial hookups. "37' is the longest length recommended. We have a 42' 5th wheel and made it fit only because we were here during the off-season. There's no way we would of got the RV in if people had the vehicles parked in their campsite or on the road," cautions Erika P. about spatial limitations.
Seasonal considerations: Water systems typically shut down in October. "The city turns the water off around the 3rd week in October. There is one bathroom building open for showers and you can also get water from the side of the office building to fill your tanks. You still have electricity and sewer at your site," explains a camper about late-season RV camping in the region.
Legend
