Tawas City sits at approximately 600 feet above sea level on the western shore of Lake Huron, where the sandy beaches create a natural transition from forest to shoreline. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with annual snowfall averaging 45 inches, while summer brings temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s. Camping options range from rustic sites with vault toilets to premium glamping accommodations with electricity and climate control.
What to do
Beach activities: Port Crescent State Park Campground offers extensive water recreation with clean, sandy beaches ideal for swimming. "A lot of fun things for kids, lots of adventures. Close to town," notes Wendy K. The park features both shallow swimming areas and fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Rifle River Recreation Area provides multiple trail systems connecting its five interior lakes. "There is a really nice observation tower and fishing pier on Grebe Lake. You can't keep the bluegills and sunfish off your hook," according to Dave V., who also mentions that "The water is super clean and crystal clear...and usually sand or rock bottom."
River activities: At River View Campground & Canoe Livery, tubing and kayaking are popular summer activities. "Nothing like grabbing a tube a flowing down the river with friends," says Megan W. The campground offers equipment rentals on-site with shuttle service for river trips.
Wildlife viewing: Jewell Lake Campground provides opportunities for nature observation in a quiet setting. "The lake has an island in the middle and is great to explore by boat," shares Amber A., noting it's "clean and simple. Shady."
What campers like
Private campsites: At Devoe Lake Rustic Campground, campers appreciate the secluded spots. "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded my trees," notes Daniel C., while Dave V. mentions that sites are "shielded from the next site by conifer and brush, so there is a fair amount of visual privacy."
Family-friendly amenities: Northern Bear Paw RV Park receives praise for its thoughtful design and natural setting. Colin L. describes it as having "campsites nicely laid out with comfortable amenities. With a soothing creek whispering in the background of our campsite," adding that "the atmosphere is relaxing and the birds add a melody to the air."
Water access: Old Orchard Park Campground offers direct waterfront options along the AuSable River. "Beautiful wooded sights. Fishing, boat ramp, beach, wagon rides, hearts, cabins great place," shares C.P. The park provides both modern and rustic camping options.
Cleanliness: Port Crescent State Park Campground maintains clean facilities despite high usage. "The bathrooms are clean and well maintained. Sites are large in general with plenty of room for activities," according to Edward C., who adds that "The pet friendly beach is fantastic for dogs as the water is very shallow."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds in the Tawas area require reservations, especially during peak season. At Tawas Point State Park Campground, campsites can book up quickly. "This state park is about the best camping you can get in the area. We stayed on site 70, and while it was crowded, we didn't mind," notes Emma W.
Weather considerations: The Lake Huron shoreline experiences variable weather patterns. Port Crescent camper Timothy P. advises, "When storms come it, make sure you have everything put away and your tent staked down reeeeeal good, cause I've definitely seen 60mph+ winds and tents end up in the trees."
Site selection: At Old Orchard Park Campground, site selection matters. Tracey R. points out, "Water and electric are poorly located. Need extra hose/cords," though she appreciates that "Nice large, woodsy, level lots. Many are waterfront."
Busy periods: Oscoda KOA sees varying levels of traffic seasonally. Kristy G. mentions, "We went second week of July and it was pretty empty, which was nice for us. There is a few things for kids/teens to play on, although half the arcade games were not working."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple swimming options: Port Crescent State Park Campground offers varied swimming experiences. "The park is always clean. The pet friendly beach is fantastic for dogs as the water is very shallow and lets them be active," notes Edward C., adding, "There's also a kids playground and volleyball court."
Recreation amenities: River View Campground caters to families with numerous activities. Phil M. says, "There were numerous playground areas, volleyball, horseshoes, and even an arcade area. Although we didn't stay in the Family area it looked very nice."
Educational opportunities: At Rifle River Recreation Area, families can enjoy nature-based learning. Jessika A. shares, "All access to trails, lakes and the river are close and easy to get to. Great location to bring family and pets." Tasha T. adds, "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."
Kid-friendly glamping: Glamping in Tawas City, Michigan has grown in popularity among families seeking comfort with outdoor access. At Old Orchard, Rachel S. notes, "I have been coming to this campground for many years. I bring my whole family! Very family and pet friendly. It has a playground and a small beach."
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: At Tawas Point State Park, RV campers should note the layout challenges. "The access roads on the loop are narrow, so you may need to take some care of if you have a large vehicle," warns Edward C., though he rates the campground highly for its overall experience.
Seasonal considerations: Luxury glamping near Tawas City works well for RVers seeking alternatives to traditional setups. City of Au Gres Riverfront Campground offers river access with full hookups. Kenneth W. notes it has "Good size sites. Great walking paths," and is conveniently located "in town and on the river."
Hookup locations: For those traveling in larger RVs, River View Campground offers more spacious options in certain sections. Phil M. explains, "The rustic sites along the river in section 'N' were very large and spacious spots. Sections L and M seemed to be tightly packed in," providing useful guidance for selecting the right site.
