Photo courtesy of Travis Morasky

The beginning of camping season is officially upon us here in our Sanctuary of the Great Lakes, which begs the question, “where to camp?” We asked our fans on Facebook where their favorite spots to camp in the Alpena area are, and here is the list we have come up with to suit every family, couple, or single camper’s needs:

Ossineke State Forest Campground– Just 15 miles south of Alpena on US-23, 42 campsites along beautiful Lake Huron await you on a first come, first serve basis. Camping here is considered rustic, but there are a few facilities such as tables and grills, vault toilets, and potable water from a hand pump well. The beautiful beaches of Lake Huron and generously spaced campsites are what campers love the most about Ossineke State Forest Campground. The campground is also supervised by the MDNR.

Long Lake Campgrounds & County Park– A quick jaunt 10 miles north of Alpena will get you to Long Lake Campgrounds & County Park on the beautiful inland Long Lake. 80 modern campsites are available for families which include water and electricity, modern bathrooms with showers, picnic sites, pavilion rental, boat launches, playground, and dumping station. For those who would like the Long Lake experience without electricity or water, there are 25 rustic campsites available as well.

Negwegon State Park– Mysterious, remote, and undeveloped, Negwegon is a hidden treasure and camping favorite amongst those who love camping in true rustic style. Located down a two-track dirt road, 4-wheel drive is recommended. Hike along the trails to find one of four available campsites along Lake Huron. Negwegon’s only amenity includes official designation of being a Dark Sky Preserve Park.

Camper’s Cove RV Park & Canoe Livery– A short drive past the city limits to Long Rapids Road will lead you to Camper’s Cove, a fun family favorite in the Alpena area. Located right on the Thunder Bay River and Lake Winyah, 45 waterfront campsites are offered out of 80 campsites total. You may choose whether you want primitive sites or full hook-up for water and electricity. A great option for keeping kids occupied as Camper’s Cove offers a heated indoor pool, putt-putt golf, game room, convenience store, and a stocked fishing pond. Camping trailers, pontoons, kayaks, and bikes are all available for rent.

Photo courtesy of Josh Stephan

Jack’s Landing Resort– A fisherman’s camp paradise awaits at Jack’s Landing Resort on Fletcher Pond in Hillman. There are plenty of accommodations available at Jack’s Landing, including 30 campsites (both rustic and E/W hookups available), waterfront cabins, trailers, and even a historic inn to lay your head! Campers love this resort because after a day of fishing they can grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant and tell fishing stories at the bar downstairs. Amenities also include modern bathrooms and showers, dump and fill stations, and a bait and tackle store.