Tawas Point State Park wilderness guide
State Park · MI

Tawas Point State Park

Tawas Point State Park is a scenic natural area located on the shore of Lake Huron, known for its historic lighthouse, sandy beaches, and diverse birdwatching opportunities.

State Park1834+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

183

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Tawas Point State Park

Tawas Point State Park is a scenic natural area located on the shore of Lake Huron, known for its historic lighthouse, sandy beaches, and diverse birdwatching opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Tawas Point State Park is located at the tip of Tawas Point, a slender peninsula projecting into Lake Huron in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Covering approximately 183 acres, the park provides a mix of sandy beaches, open water views, and forested areas. The park is best known for the historic Tawas Point Lighthouse, built in 1876, which remains a popular landmark for visitors and photographers. The park's unique location on migratory bird routes makes it a renowned spot for birdwatching, particularly during spring and fall migration seasons, attracting species such as warblers, hawks, and waterfowl. The shoreline offers excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddling in Lake Huron’s clear waters. Trails and picnic areas allow for hiking and family-friendly recreation. The park’s ecosystem includes sandy dunes, beach grasses, and mixed hardwood forests, supporting varied wildlife and plant species. Facilities include a campground with modern amenities, a beach house, and a boat launch. Tawas Point’s peaceful setting combined with recreational diversity appeals to anglers, campers, birders, and day visitors. The park offers both developed and natural areas, allowing visitors to experience both active and quiet outdoor experiences. Proximity to the town of Tawas City provides easy access to services while maintaining a sense of natural escape. Tawas Point State Park is an important Michigan outdoor destination for its blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical significance.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Tawas Point State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Historic Tawas Point Lighthouse – a key landmark built in 1876✦ Outstanding birdwatching location on a migratory flyway✦ Sandy beaches ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and fishing✦ Developed campground with modern amenities and lake views
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Tawas Point State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Beachcombing

Available in Tawas Point State Park
Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Tawas Point State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Tawas Point State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee required for vehicles; camping reservations recommended.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Tawas Point State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Tawas Point Campground

Located within the park, offering electric and non-electric sites with easy access to the beach, trails, and lighthouse.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Tawas Point State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Oscoda, Michigan
⌖ 5.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oscoda, Michigan

Oscoda, Michigan, offers outdoor lovers access to peaceful forest trails, Lake Huron beaches, and the renowned Au Sable River. Ideal for paddling, fishing, biking, and winter sports, it’s a great year-round destination for adventure seekers.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
East Tawas, Michigan
⌖ 6.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

East Tawas, Michigan

East Tawas offers tranquil lakefront adventures with hiking, kayaking, fishing, and snowmobiling. Explore beautiful beaches, trails, and the iconic Tawas Point Lighthouse along Lake Huron’s quiet shore.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Tawas City, Michigan
⌖ 8.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tawas City, Michigan

Tawas City offers peaceful beaches, excellent paddling, and rich bird watching on Lake Huron’s shore. This low-key town is a great base for outdoor lovers seeking quiet trails, fishing spots, and scenic views year-round.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Hale, Michigan
⌖ 20.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hale, Michigan

Hale, Michigan offers quiet river kayaking, serene hiking trails, and robust winter snowmobiling. This inviting town is perfect for travelers seeking low-key wilderness escapes with ample opportunity for fishing, bird watching, and camping.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking, Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Harrisville, Michigan
⌖ 21.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Harrisville, Michigan

Harrisville is a tranquil lakeside town on Lake Huron perfect for paddling, hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling. Its access to forest trails and protected areas makes it a great all-season outdoor escape.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water activities; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Lincoln, Michigan
⌖ 23.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lincoln, Michigan

Lincoln, Michigan offers quiet outdoor adventures with great hiking, paddling, and winter sports opportunities. Surrounded by state forest and freshwater lakes, it’s a peaceful spot for nature lovers seeking less crowded trails.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Tawas Point State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.