The best forest campgrounds near Port Austin, Michigan

Looking for a camping experience in the forest near Port Austin, Michigan? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 580 available options in the area, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Be Wild and Free (76 reviews), Halls Haven (71 reviews), and The Crow's Nest (69 reviews) for tried and true options. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly accommodations. Plus, indulge in exciting activities like surfing, wildlife watching, and off-roading. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. So grab your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors with Hipcamp!

100% (73)

Top-rated campgrounds

The beautiful Loop-Harrison Mansion celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2022.

Looking for a camping experience in the forest near Port Austin, Michigan? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 580 available options in the area, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Be Wild and Free (76 reviews), Halls Haven (71 reviews), and The Crow's Nest (69 reviews) for tried and true options. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly accommodations. Plus, indulge in exciting activities like surfing, wildlife watching, and off-roading. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. So grab your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors with Hipcamp!

100% (73)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Step Back in Time with Us!

98%

(66)

48mi from Port Austin · 7 sites · RVs · Port Sanilac, MI

Our beautiful, 10-acre grounds include wooded and grassy areas, 14 different gardens, bridges, boardwalks, swings and benches, walking trails, and 17 historic buildings. Visit the beautiful Loop Harrison Mansion, General Store, one-room schoolhouse, Banner Cabin, our historic church and train depot, the hearse shed that houses our antique wooden hearse, and more. Wildlife and nature abound. Our peaceful and private grounds will be your camping oasis. Within walking distance of beautiful Lake Huron with its beaches and marina and parks, plus the Port Sanilac Lighthouse (tours available on summer Fridays), and several bars and restaurants. Check out our Farmers' Market on Fridays and catch a live play at the 150-year-old Barn Theatre. Take a guided tour of the beautiful Loop-Harrison Mansion, built in 1872. Or hop on a 1917 open-air Model T or horse and carriage for a tour around town. There is always something happening at the Museum! Learn more about this land: RV campers are welcomed to our beautiful 10-acre grounds at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum. At this time, we do not allow tent campers. Campers are invited to use our two large communal bonfire pits. Firewood is available for purchase. Advance notice is recommended. Guest WIFI is available in and near the Mansion but does not reliably connect to our camping areas. Here you will find beauty, quiet, and privacy. Be sure to wander our brick/stone path and nature trail that combine to make a one-mile walking path around the grounds. You'll enjoy bridges, swings and benches to rest awhile, a boardwalk, a fairy garden, 14 flower gardens, birds and wildlife, and lots more! The path also winds past each of our 17 historic buildings and the 1942 U.S. Army Troop Train. Tour the beautiful Loop-Harrison Mansion, celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2022. Enjoy a live performance at the Barn Theatre on Friday and Saturday evenings. Take a unique tour of Port Sanilac in our 1917, open-air Model T or horse and carriage. We are located within walking distance of beautiful Lake Huron, including a lakeside park, beach, harbor, and break wall. Check out the live music at the harbor park every Saturday during the summer months. The historic Port Sanilac Lighthouse (tours offered on Fridays) is also within walking distance, as well as restaurants, bars, and shopping. Follo us on Facebook at "Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum" for the most up-to-date info on events, etc.

2. Tawas Pointe In The Woods

93%

(7)

27mi from Port Austin · 1 site · Tent, RV · East Tawas, MI

Park your RV or set up your tent and hook up to a 50 amp power outlet or a 110 outlet. Enjoy hiking the paths on the 25 acre woods, the campfire, the amazing stargazing, and only 2 miles to Tawas State Park and 3 miles to the charming East Tawas shops and restaurants. Located on Baldwin Resort Road in East Tawas. Ride your bike to Tawas State Park to enjoy one of the best sites for bird watching in the Spring; walk the white sugar sand beaches of Lake Huron and Tawas Bay all seasons, and swim in the warmer months. My 25 acre property has 3 lots of 2 acres of 260 feet frontage on Baldwin Resort Road. On the 60 foot frontage lot is a 3 bedroom home that I stay in at times and a shed; the outdoor 50 amp outlet and 110 power outlet is located at the back of the home for hookup. The 200 foot frontage are empty wooded lots and the 23 acres of woods is behind the home and south of the home. You have access to the 23 acres for hiking and pure enjoyment of the serene woods.

3. New Lady Of The Lake On Lake Huron

100%

(1)

39mi from Port Austin · 1 site · Lodging · Greenbush, MI

Escape to our NEW charming lakeside cabin near Lake Huron —your perfect year-round retreat! Just steps from a sandy beach, this cozy, pet-friendly getaway offers summer fun and winter magic. Relax in the private hot tub(newly installed on 7/17/2025), unwind in the sauna, and enjoy peaceful nights under the stars next to the fire pit! Ideal for families, couples, and furry friends, it's the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and nature—whether you're basking in the sun or playing in the snow.

4. Port Crescent State Park

100%

(4)

145 sites · Port Austin, Michigan

Three miles of sandy shores await campers along Michigan’s thumb.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Sleeper State Park

100%

(4)

226 sites · Caseville, Michigan

Discover Sleeper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. Rosemary Pines

100%

(2)

30mi from Port Austin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Oscoda, MI

This home was built by my grandparents back in the 40’s he was a military man she was a homemaker! We lived around the kitchen with smoked fish and freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies! At one time my uncles horse lived here and many of my grandfathers chicken! This home and land has lots of love surrounding it! There are many blueberry farms and amazing fishing spots! I can hand out brochures when you arrive. I also have a relationship with a local fishing charter if you would like to do a fish and fry!Learn more about this land:Woods and moss with a pond. We offer camping (must bring tents) on the property. It’s optional bathrooms and showers, grill chairs and table. We are a mile from the beach and we can drop you at the canoe rental in town. You can choose to only camp or to camp and use toilet and shower with code access. . We offer s’more sets for 2 people package in garage in refrigerator if wanted. We also have in town canoeing local and beach side fire pits along Lake Huron. We’re close to Lumberman monument which is a beautiful place to hike and see the fall colors. We’re also not a far drive from the Mackinac Bridge. You can engage in water, beaches, canoeing or just sit by the bonfire and eat s’mores! The property is 5 acres with a home located on site and someone will be available if needed. We do have dense pines with bugs so bring bug spray!

7. Ruffin It

100%

(11)

49mi from Port Austin · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Prescott, MI

Learn more about this land:Privacy and freedom, In between West Branch and Tawas, you’ll be centrally located to choose from many options. Lake Huron 30 minutes away, Au Sable River 15 min away, Rifle River 10 minutes away. Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, star gazing, hunting, fishing,

8. The Wind Down Depot

100%

(4)

45mi from Port Austin · 1 site · RV · Carsonville, MI

The wind down depot is an old train station cut in half and moved to the middle of the woods. We have lots of walking trails. Animals of all sorts can be seen all day. The flower garden is always loud with buzzing. The slab of concrete is ready for parking. Power available 20, 30 and 50 amp. Hose spigot too off the house. It’s secluded and private. Offers nature and views from the site to the pond and creek. Town is 5 miles away. The property is completely wooded.

9. Alabaster Acres Tawas

30mi from Port Austin · 3 sites · Lodging · Tawas City, MI

**Alabaster Acres: Your Woodland Retreat** Nestled on 15 acres of serene, wooded landscape, Alabaster Acres offers an enchanting camping experience with groomed trails for exploration. Located conveniently off US 23 and near the Iron Bell Bike Path, our property is a nature lover’s paradise just a stone's throw from the shores of Lake Huron. Enjoy a quick drive or a delightful bike ride to the charming towns of Tawas City and East Tawas. Come escape into nature while staying close to the conveniences and beauty of the Sunrise Side.

10. Huron-Manistee National Forests

83%

(29)

938 sites · Mio, Michigan

You’re going to feel like you struck gold when you visit Huron-Manistee National Forest and you might actually strike gold! Along with hiking and horseback riding in the fairytale forest of lower Michigan, you can also pan for gold or hunt for natural minerals and geodes. If a sparkly souvenir isn’t your fancy, tube down the AuSable National Scenic River or explore the Nordhouse Dunes. The Loda Lake National Wildflower Sanctuary is delight for all your senses and a spot to get that epic panoramic shot. This is a place you’ll want to discover for more than a day, so crack a few fireside brews at one of Huron-Manistee’s campgrounds. You’ll have no issues here striking it rich in both scenery and fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camper favorites near Port Austin

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rosemary Pines

100%

(2)

30mi from Port Austin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Oscoda, MI

This home was built by my grandparents back in the 40’s he was a military man she was a homemaker! We lived around the kitchen with smoked fish and freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies! At one time my uncles horse lived here and many of my grandfathers chicken! This home and land has lots of love surrounding it! There are many blueberry farms and amazing fishing spots! I can hand out brochures when you arrive. I also have a relationship with a local fishing charter if you would like to do a fish and fry!Learn more about this land:Woods and moss with a pond. We offer camping (must bring tents) on the property. It’s optional bathrooms and showers, grill chairs and table. We are a mile from the beach and we can drop you at the canoe rental in town. You can choose to only camp or to camp and use toilet and shower with code access. . We offer s’more sets for 2 people package in garage in refrigerator if wanted. We also have in town canoeing local and beach side fire pits along Lake Huron. We’re close to Lumberman monument which is a beautiful place to hike and see the fall colors. We’re also not a far drive from the Mackinac Bridge. You can engage in water, beaches, canoeing or just sit by the bonfire and eat s’mores! The property is 5 acres with a home located on site and someone will be available if needed. We do have dense pines with bugs so bring bug spray!

Ruffin It

100%

(11)

49mi from Port Austin · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Prescott, MI

Learn more about this land:Privacy and freedom, In between West Branch and Tawas, you’ll be centrally located to choose from many options. Lake Huron 30 minutes away, Au Sable River 15 min away, Rifle River 10 minutes away. Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, star gazing, hunting, fishing,

The Wind Down Depot

100%

(4)

45mi from Port Austin · 1 site · RV · Carsonville, MI

The wind down depot is an old train station cut in half and moved to the middle of the woods. We have lots of walking trails. Animals of all sorts can be seen all day. The flower garden is always loud with buzzing. The slab of concrete is ready for parking. Power available 20, 30 and 50 amp. Hose spigot too off the house. It’s secluded and private. Offers nature and views from the site to the pond and creek. Town is 5 miles away. The property is completely wooded.

Alabaster Acres Tawas

30mi from Port Austin · 3 sites · Lodging · Tawas City, MI

**Alabaster Acres: Your Woodland Retreat** Nestled on 15 acres of serene, wooded landscape, Alabaster Acres offers an enchanting camping experience with groomed trails for exploration. Located conveniently off US 23 and near the Iron Bell Bike Path, our property is a nature lover’s paradise just a stone's throw from the shores of Lake Huron. Enjoy a quick drive or a delightful bike ride to the charming towns of Tawas City and East Tawas. Come escape into nature while staying close to the conveniences and beauty of the Sunrise Side.

Public campgrounds near Port Austin

100%

(4)

Port Crescent Campground

3.6mi from Port Austin · 145 sites · Tents, RVs · in Port Crescent State Park

100%

(4)

Sleeper Campground

12mi from Port Austin · 226 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sleeper State Park

100%

(1)

Round Lake Campground

39mi from Port Austin · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Monument Campground

41mi from Port Austin · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Au Sable River Primitive Camping

41mi from Port Austin · 102 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Pine River Campground

47mi from Port Austin · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Better to keep the canoe on the river - its about 250 steps up the bank and a 1/4 mile hike to the campgrounds.

Rollways Campground

48mi from Port Austin · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Stories from the community

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tawas Pointe In The Woods

This is a wonderful spot to camp! The back yard is spacious, with a hammock, wind chimes, fire pit, and table. Behind the back yard are some trails that go deep into the north woods. The host was very gracious, taking time to check in with me while she was travelling out of state. Also, the beach at Tawas Point just became one of my favorite beaches in Michigan, up there with Oval Beach in Saugatuck and the "secret spot" off Old Freesoil Road in the Manistee National Forest, between Ludington and Manistee, north of Big Sable Point. It is a fascinating little piece of land that sticks down into Tawas Bay.

D

Douglas

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Step Back in Time with Us!

We recommend it although not highly. Kind of a cool setting if you’re into old timey museum type places. It’s great for a quick stopover point. Location was nice, we were the only people there (late season trip) so it was very quiet. Port Sanilac is a great little town.

M

Mark

September 2025

31 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Step Back in Time with Us!

We had a pleasant and quiet stay. The restrooms were clean, and the historic village was interesting. We had a little trouble hooking up to the 20 amp electrical service, but Dan was quick to help with a solution. We would certainly recommend this listing.

chad

September 2025

With pets

3 nights at New Lady Of The Lake On Lake Huron

Loved the quiet and peaceful stay was very nice and the Hotub was great also, would recommend.

Stacie

September 2025

32 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tawas Pointe In The Woods

We enjoyed camping with our 32ft toy hauler. Lots of room fairly flat spot and a 50 Amp plug. Beautiful scenery and well groomed trails to walk the dogs. We enjoyed a campfire both nights we stayed. Would use again. A mile from state park so easy to dump there after.

W

Wayne

September 2025

6 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Step Back in Time with Us!

Quiet, nearest neighbor was 80 yards away. This is like a miniature greenfield village. It is clean and well kept, with fun little walking trails to explore. For an additional fee you can have a guided tour of the historic buildings onsite. I had a wonderful time!

J

Jema

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Step Back in Time with Us!

Wonderful venue!! We didn’t realize until we arrived, this is not a “campground“ but a historical village, and you camp on their grounds. The only negative would be that there’s no shower, but that was not a big deal. We went to a play at The Barn Theater onsite - perfect for us theater folk! We were tempted to leave a bad review so we could have the place to ourselves, but that wouldn’t be fair!! Quiet, beautiful, lots of things to do in the area - what’s not to love?!!

Anthony

August 2025

24 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Tawas Pointe In The Woods

Very quiet and private. The spot was very easy to find. Loved the fire pit and trails. We will definitely return.

Alexander

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tawas Pointe In The Woods

Great backyard site. Good access to the point state park and close to town. Hosts are super friendly and welcoming! I want to come back here!

R

Randy

August 2025

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Step Back in Time with Us!

It was flat and grassy. Also very quiet. Nice bathhouse. Convenient to town

Christopher & Elaine

July 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Step Back in Time with Us!

Our second stay at the property and as good as ever. We arrived a bit late so we didn’t meet our Host however she provided all the info we required. The site is really amazing with clusters of refurbished heritage buildings. We felt safe and had access to washroom facilities (no showers) which was very convenient. We highly recommend a stay

Miguel

July 2025

36 ft toy hauler

Weekend Trip to Step Back in Time with Us!

Beautiful location and great atmosphere, I'll definitely be going back.

L

Lisa

June 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Step Back in Time with Us!

We stayed here on our way through Michigan to explore the Great Lakes. We arrived in the rain an hour before closing and Dan advised us to not park where we were assigned (electric site) due to potentially getting stuck in the wet grass. We didn’t really need power (donated the payment) and were able to park in the driveway for the evening and walk into town when the rain stopped. We walked by the marina and stopped at Alli’s for a drink and great conversation with the bar tender. It’s a must visit if in the area. It was a Really rainy night, but we enjoyed a peaceful stay!

E

Ev

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Tawas Pointe In The Woods

Great spot close to the lake with nice trails and great company. Carol was great to talk to, and helpful with recomendations.

K

Kevin

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ruffin It

Very nice spot for car camping, right in the edge of the woods, easy to find and close to gad station if extra supplies are needed.

A

Amanda

May 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Step Back in Time with Us!

Fun time with family! Land is on a public museum site, there were clean bathrooms available and easy set up and access. Fun variation to camping!

K

Kellie

May 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at The Wind Down Depot

This was our first experience with Hipcamp and The Wind Down Depot didn’t disappoint. The property is beautiful with majestic woods, ponds and amazing trails throughout. Chris and his family are very accommodating and hospitable hosts. Chris offered assistance with our rig and invited us to his patio for a campfire with lots of laughes. Thanks again Chris. We’ll be back!

Mike

May 2025

26 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Step Back in Time with Us!

Private camping with 20 amp outlet in a historic museum coupled with short walk to Lake Huron made a relaxing 2 day trip. Dan was helpful pointing out site, electric and offered firewood for a small donation. Great to see a smaller MI town do so much too preserve history back to mid 1800s. Well worth 2 days.

Patrick

November 2024

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Step Back in Time with Us!

Fantastic experience staying at a very unique site. Great spot under the stars near the campfire site. Plenty of places to explore. We toured the mansion on property and walked the path through the historic village. Later we walked the path around the property. Dan was there when we arrived and helped us to our site. We had the whole place to ourselves at night. Very clean bathroom on property if needed. Great experience and I would highly recommend.

R

Richard

October 2024

26 ft toy hauler

14 nights at Step Back in Time with Us!

Suited us very well. For public museum with a Halloween Venture for kids, that was an enjoyable party. Never a noisy day and peaceful nights. The visitors were pleasantly talkative with input of the Port Sanilac history. Google Maps sent us in the wrong direction but phone call to our host directed to and met us on the grounds. I hope to be back next fall.