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Camper
Perspectives
Beaches
It isn’t called the “sunrise side” for nothing. Lake Huron gets a lot of morning sunshine, but the afternoons are just as pleasant. Beaches across the region, which stretches from the
Mackinac Bridge to the base of Michigan’s thumb, give visitors a splendid view at first light. Starting from the north, you will want to visit Cheboygan State Park Beach, Cheboygan. One of the most popular beaches around, Cheboygan State Park is expansive and frequent
destination for fishing in Duncan Bay and Elliott Creek. There are also several trails around, which are never longer than three-quarters of a mile.
Lakeside Beach, Rogers City, is a public beach on the shores of Lake Huron that is well-worth a visit. It has every amenity possible, from a kiddie park to volleyball courts to a
pavilion, not to mention its 10 acres of waterfront. A stunning park that often gets accolades from visitors, Lakeside Beach offers families of all sizes and kids of all ages the chance to spend a
quality day at a Michigan beach.
McGraw County Park, Port Austin, is a bit of a hidden gem, although its reputation is starting to grow. The thumb of Michigan isn’t an accidental destination – you intend to visit this area of the state. So, make the effort! McGraw County Park is among the area’s best public beaches. The picnic tables are in wooded areas for decent shade, and the gorgeous stretch of Lake Huron shoreline is sandy and clean. And don’t forget to visit an interesting natural formation nearby, Turnip Rock.
The day use area portion of the beach at Lakeport State Park, Fort Gratiot Twp., is well-known, but there is a mystery path at the north end that leads to a secluded portion of public beach. It’ll feel like it’s all yours thanks to the dense tree line behind you and the open expanse of Lake Huron before you.
Kayaking
Tawas Point State Park on the Sunrise Side is a favorite for locals and visitors because of its historic lighthouse, extensive beach, and access to the Blueways Water Trail. Tawas Bay, an
inlet of Lake Huron, has been referred to as “The Cape Cod of the Midwest.” Just put in the kayak and follow the shoreline up and around the point. On one side of the point is Tawas
Bay, on the other side is Lake Huron. Two experiences and two spectacular views in one
paddling trip.
Although the seven-mile Turnip Rock Trail near Port Austin should not be missed, if you’re looking for a shorter paddle that has its share of impressive rock formations, then
go on a two-hour paddle along the Broken Rocks Trail that begins at Veterans Waterfront Park (which has a wonderfully sandy beach). As you journey south-west along the Michigan
shoreline, you’ll see landmarks Table Rock, Broken Rock, and Twin Sisters. You will even be able to visit some sea caves carved into the rock. Table Rock has an accessible stop to take a
break. After a swim and a snack, turn around and follow the route back to the park.
MARVAC Staff Recommendation
from John Lindley, MARVAC President & CEO
“My family and I love stopping at Ocqueoc Falls when we’re on the Sunrise Side. Just about 10 miles directly west of Rogers City on M-68, Ocqueoc Falls aren’t just the largest falls in the lower peninsular, these falls are the only universally accessible falls
in the United States! That’s right – we love going there because we LOVE swimming in the cool waters of the falls. It’s like a naturally-occurring water park!”
24 2022 MICHIGAN RV & CAMPGROUNDS MichiganRVandCampgrounds.org