RV camping near Tawas City, Michigan offers sites along Lake Huron's western shore where the Au Sable River meets the Great Lake. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through October, with only Northern Bear Paw RV Park remaining open year-round. The region experiences mild summers with temperatures typically ranging from 65-80°F and cooler nights that can drop into the 50s.
What to do
Kayaking on the Au Gres River: Northern Bear Paw RV Park provides direct river access with dedicated 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.
Lighthouse exploration: Tawas Point State Park Campground features a historic lighthouse accessible via nature trails. "The nature walk leads out to the lighthouse by the bay, and comes up to the beach," shares a visitor. Another adds, "The lighthouse is beautiful and you have to see it at night!"
Biking on paved paths: Many campgrounds connect to local bike trails. "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," according to a Browns Landing RV Park guest.
What campers like
Sunrise views: The eastern shore location provides spectacular morning views. "The sun rises here are my favorite," reports a Browns Landing RV Park visitor. Multiple campers note that waking up early is worthwhile for the Lake Huron sunrise experience.
Dog-friendly beaches: Tawas Point State Park Campground offers a designated pet area with shallow water access. "The dog beach gives it an extra star for me. The shallows go out quite far, and is pleasantly sandy. The water is warmer than on the Huron side of the point, too," explains one visitor.
Playground facilities: Many parks offer family recreational areas. At Alcona Park, guests appreciate the "hiking trails and a playground for the kids." The campground also features "lovely views of the lake" and remains "busy, but clean, friendly and quiet."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: The Oscoda-Tawas KOA has tracks near the entrance. "The only complaint I have of this is that there is an active train track that goes through the front of the campground at the entrance. It came through at about 1:30am when I stayed," notes one camper. Another mentions, "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!"
Limited shade at some sites: Several campgrounds have open layouts. At Tawas Point State Park, "the campsites themselves are sadly devoid of much shade, and only a few even have a water view." Another camper notes it's "always packed, very little cover, but surrounded by memorable beaches."
Minimum stay requirements: During peak season, some parks enforce longer bookings. One Alcona Park camper explains, "For $22/night, it's not horrible, but there is a five night minimum stay in the summer." They add, "We camp at Alcona County Park every Labor Day weekend...to avoid the five night min."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Oscoda-Tawas KOA offers extensive children's amenities. "This is my favorite camp ground! The facilities are nice, there is tons to do for kids, and the owners are awesome!" writes one visitor. Another details, "The campground has a fabulous rec room for kids...and an outside playground with a jungle gym and other amenities."
Beach options: Different water experiences are available for various age groups. At Tawas Point, "the public beach on Lake Huron has rougher water and more rocks" while the bay side offers "a nice sandy beach that faces Tawas Bay in the campground."
Biting insect preparation: Pack appropriate repellents, especially during summer months. One Tawas Point visitor advises, "Bring a repellent for biting flies. Watch for many kids bombing around on their bikes & bike trails."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Alcona Park offers various camping options. "They have full, semi and rustic sites. Rustic sites could be a little more leveled off but not awfully bad," notes one RVer who adds, "sites are clean and many have good space for larger campers."
Reservation planning: Phone-based booking systems at some parks require advance planning. For Alcona Park, "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."
Electric limitations: Check amperage availability before arrival. One camper notes Alcona Park has "20 amp electricity on most sites," which may not support all RV systems simultaneously.
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