- Forest Camping
The best forest camping near Port Austin
96% (84) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Port Austin
Step Back in Time with Us!
1. Step Back in Time with Us!
98%
(66)
48mi from Port Austin · 7 sites
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$41
/ night
Ruffin It
2. Ruffin It
100%
(11)
49mi from Port Austin · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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,
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$23
/ night
Lake Huron Wooded Retreat 🚗🏕️🏖️
3. Lake Huron Wooded Retreat 🚗🏕️🏖️
81%
(18)
29mi from Port Austin · 1 site · Tent, RV
~ Newly Renovated June 2025 ~
Private One-Acre Campsite Near the Beach
Enjoy a peaceful and affordable escape just minutes from Lake Huron with this one-acre private campsite in Au Gres, Michigan. When you book, you get the entire property to yourself—no other campers. The space is clearly marked with pink boundary flags and includes three roomy areas perfect for pitching tents, parking an SUV, or setting up a small campervan. Pop-up campers can fit, but space is tight and better for simple setups.
The front of the property is grassy and open, while the rear features a wooded section with a short walking path. Behind the site is a larger wooded parcel that isn’t part of the Hipcamp, but it adds to the secluded, natural feel.
Just a 4–5 minute walk brings you to a quiet public access point to Lake Huron. The road dead-ends at private homes, and between them is a public footpath to the beach. Before the shoreline, you'll find a small 20-yard-wide wooded area where our guests can set up chairs and enjoy the view—feel free to walk beyond to the sandy beach as well. A photo of this spot is included in the listing.
While the campsite isn’t totally secluded—there are a few nearby homes and occasional daytime traffic—you’ll still enjoy full privacy on your acre with room to unwind, make a fire, and relax under the stars.
This spot is best for couples or small groups looking for a low-key beach getaway close to nature and just 10 minutes from the shops and restaurants of Au Gres and Tawas City.
Pets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Port Crescent State Park
4. Port Crescent State Park
100%
(4)
State park 4mi from Port Austin · 145 sites
Three miles of sandy shores await campers along Michigan’s thumb.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sleeper State Park
5. Sleeper State Park
100%
(4)
State park 12mi from Port Austin · 226 sites
Discover Sleeper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rosemary Pines
6. Rosemary Pines
100%
(2)
30mi from Port Austin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$80
/ night
Alabaster Acres Tawas
7. Alabaster Acres Tawas
30mi from Port Austin · 3 sites
**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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$85
/ night
New Lady Of The Lake On Lake Huron
8. New Lady Of The Lake On Lake Huron
100%
(1)
39mi from Port Austin · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$150
/ night
Dingle Dangle Acres
9. Dingle Dangle Acres
43mi from Port Austin · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Small 2-bedroom cabin on 36 acres, perfect for hiking and nature watching. The bedrooms have split king beds that can be configured as a king or two twins. Fully stocked kitchen. Close to the Rifle and Au Gres Rivers for canoeing, and Tawas State Park for access to Lake Huron.
Secondary heating is provided by a pellet stove, which is easy to use and adds lovely ambience. When renting the cabin, additional land is available for tent and RV camping. Cute and cozy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Huron-Manistee National Forests
10. Huron-Manistee National Forests
83%
(29)
National forest 58mi from Port Austin · 938 sites
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
The Wind Down Depot
11. The Wind Down Depot
100%
(4)
45mi from Port Austin · 1 site
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$38
/ night
96% (84) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Port Austin
Step Back in Time with Us!
1. Step Back in Time with Us!
98%
(66)
48mi from Port Austin · 7 sites
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$41
/ night
Ruffin It
2. Ruffin It
100%
(11)
49mi from Port Austin · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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,
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$23
/ night
Lake Huron Wooded Retreat 🚗🏕️🏖️
3. Lake Huron Wooded Retreat 🚗🏕️🏖️
81%
(18)
29mi from Port Austin · 1 site · Tent, RV
~ Newly Renovated June 2025 ~
Private One-Acre Campsite Near the Beach
Enjoy a peaceful and affordable escape just minutes from Lake Huron with this one-acre private campsite in Au Gres, Michigan. When you book, you get the entire property to yourself—no other campers. The space is clearly marked with pink boundary flags and includes three roomy areas perfect for pitching tents, parking an SUV, or setting up a small campervan. Pop-up campers can fit, but space is tight and better for simple setups.
The front of the property is grassy and open, while the rear features a wooded section with a short walking path. Behind the site is a larger wooded parcel that isn’t part of the Hipcamp, but it adds to the secluded, natural feel.
Just a 4–5 minute walk brings you to a quiet public access point to Lake Huron. The road dead-ends at private homes, and between them is a public footpath to the beach. Before the shoreline, you'll find a small 20-yard-wide wooded area where our guests can set up chairs and enjoy the view—feel free to walk beyond to the sandy beach as well. A photo of this spot is included in the listing.
While the campsite isn’t totally secluded—there are a few nearby homes and occasional daytime traffic—you’ll still enjoy full privacy on your acre with room to unwind, make a fire, and relax under the stars.
This spot is best for couples or small groups looking for a low-key beach getaway close to nature and just 10 minutes from the shops and restaurants of Au Gres and Tawas City.
Pets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Port Crescent State Park
4. Port Crescent State Park
100%
(4)
State park 4mi from Port Austin · 145 sites
Three miles of sandy shores await campers along Michigan’s thumb.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sleeper State Park
5. Sleeper State Park
100%
(4)
State park 12mi from Port Austin · 226 sites
Discover Sleeper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rosemary Pines
6. Rosemary Pines
100%
(2)
30mi from Port Austin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$80
/ night
Alabaster Acres Tawas
7. Alabaster Acres Tawas
30mi from Port Austin · 3 sites
**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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$85
/ night
New Lady Of The Lake On Lake Huron
8. New Lady Of The Lake On Lake Huron
100%
(1)
39mi from Port Austin · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$150
/ night
Dingle Dangle Acres
9. Dingle Dangle Acres
43mi from Port Austin · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Small 2-bedroom cabin on 36 acres, perfect for hiking and nature watching. The bedrooms have split king beds that can be configured as a king or two twins. Fully stocked kitchen. Close to the Rifle and Au Gres Rivers for canoeing, and Tawas State Park for access to Lake Huron.
Secondary heating is provided by a pellet stove, which is easy to use and adds lovely ambience. When renting the cabin, additional land is available for tent and RV camping. Cute and cozy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Huron-Manistee National Forests
10. Huron-Manistee National Forests
83%
(29)
National forest 58mi from Port Austin · 938 sites
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
The Wind Down Depot
11. The Wind Down Depot
100%
(4)
45mi from Port Austin · 1 site
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$38
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Douglas
October 2025
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
See moreM
Mark
September 2025
31 ft travel trailer
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.
See more
chad
September 2025
With pets
Loved the quiet and peaceful stay was very nice and the Hotub was great also, would recommend.
See moreW
Wayne
September 2025
6 ft travel trailer
With pets
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!
See more
J
Jema
September 2025
16 ft travel trailer
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?!!
See more
R
Randy
August 2025
18 ft campervan
It was flat and grassy. Also very quiet. Nice bathhouse. Convenient to town
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Christopher & Elaine
July 2025
12 ft travel trailer
With pets
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
See more
Miguel
July 2025
36 ft toy hauler
Beautiful location and great atmosphere, I'll definitely be going back.
See more
G
Gaetan
July 2025
Tent
Everything match the description.
Cool spot to stay at.
See more
Anna
June 2025
Tent
With pets
Cute spot! It was a bit confusing to find at first but once I was settled I enjoyed my time. Some of the reviews had me nervous because I’m fairly picky when it comes to wanting an “in nature” experience- though you are fairly close to a road and not completely secluded in the middle of the woods, I thought the campsite itself still felt nice and private and gave me the woodsy feel. Unfortunately I can’t speak on the lake access.. I ended up spending the day in Tawas Point State Park. Anyway I thought it was a good spot 👍
See moreS
Sam
June 2025
Tent
With kids
I loved the spot for the campsite. We could get into the site with our suburban. The walk to the beach did feel like walking through someone's back yard but it was a public road. We would definitely come back for the views!
See moreL
Lisa
June 2025
25 ft Class C
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!
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K
Kevin
May 2025
Tent
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.
See moreA
Amanda
May 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With kids
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!
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K
Kellie
May 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
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!
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Mike
May 2025
26 ft Class C
With pets
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.
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Patrick
November 2024
16 ft travel trailer
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.
See moreR
Richard
October 2024
26 ft toy hauler
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.
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