The eastern shoreline of Lake Huron near Sand Lake, Michigan provides RV camping options across a range of terrains from wooded riverside locations to lakefront settings. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with limited year-round facilities available. Average summer temperatures reach 80°F, making water activities popular during peak camping months.
What to do
Kayaking the Au Gres River: Northern Bear Paw RV Park offers direct river access with seating areas. "The grounds are immaculate. Very peaceful setting. Pine trees left intact. It sits on the Au Gres River trail to the river with seating, picnic table and fire pit," notes one camper.
Birding at nature trails: Tawas Point State Park Campground serves as a warbler migration stopover point each spring. "It is an important stopping point for the migratory pattern of warblers in the spring, and has a very nice nature walk," explains a reviewer who visited with family.
Lighthouse visits: Walk the trail from Tawas Point State Park to the historic lighthouse. "The lighthouse is beautiful and you have to see it at night! The beach area is great and there is a snack shack to get awesome food from! You have to try the chicken nachos," recommends a regular visitor.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Alcona Park offers large campsites with natural separation. "We love the staff and most of the neighboring campers. The lots are huge. Some years are better than others with upkeep of the grounds and bath house," notes a longtime visitor.
Sandy shallow beaches: The protected bay areas create gentle water access points. "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 than on the Huron side of the point," explains a camper at Tawas Point.
Clean facilities: Northern Bear Paw RV Park maintains well-kept common areas. "Owners are very thoughtful, through, and considerate of the campers. Second visit here and would highly recommend," states a satisfied guest.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: The Oscoda-Tawas KOA experiences periodic train traffic. "There's a train track by the campground, but we only heard it at night two times. It didn't run on the weekend," reports one camper, while another notes, "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!"
Site spacing varies by season: Camping areas become more condensed during peak periods. "While it was crowded, we didn't mind. We were close by to the boat launch, and just a short walk to the bathroom; not too far and not too close either," explains a visitor to Tawas Point State Park.
Phone service limitations: Cell coverage can be unreliable in certain camping areas. "Cell phone reception is nill here so do not plan to make or receive calls!" warns an Alcona Park visitor who camps there regularly on Labor Day weekend.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Oscoda-Tawas KOA features dedicated child play areas. "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 a camper.
Educational activities: Look for ranger-led programs about local wildlife. "The campground is within walking distance to the [lighthouse]. The lighthouse is beautiful and you have to see it at night!" explains an enthusiast who visits Tawas Point State Park multiple times each summer.
Multi-generational spaces: Some parks offer varied accommodation options. "My wife and I stayed at the Oscoda/Tawas KOA for 7 nights in the first part of Sept 2021 at RV site #10. The site was level and adequately spacious. The campground has a fabulous rec room for kids, although we had none with us, and an outside playground with a jungle gym."
Tips from RVers
Dust precautions: Protect equipment during dry conditions. "Roads can get extremely dusty when it's dry," notes an Alcona Park camper who recommends the campground despite this minor inconvenience.
Utility reliability: Check electrical service before setup. "Our electric box didn't work we had to use the box next to us," reports a visitor to Tawas River RV Park, highlighting the importance of confirming hookups upon arrival.
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks, especially for rustic sites. "Rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad... some rustic sites could use some dirt to level them up but manageable," advises a camper who frequents Alcona Park.
