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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 30 miles.

Fishing at Ausable River in Lake Placid★ 7.5⌖ 24 miFly Fishing
Lake Placid

Fishing at Ausable River in Lake Placid

Fish the Ausable River near Lake Placid, known for trout and stunning views. Easily accessed by car, this spot offers adventure for anglers. Best visited in spring and fall.

Fly FishingView Details→
Nature's Serenity at Dow Gardens & Whiting Forest★ 8.5⌖ 66 miHiking
Dow Gardens and the Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens

Nature's Serenity at Dow Gardens & Whiting Forest

Explore Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest in Midland, MI. Enjoy walking the longest canopy walk in the U.S. across a 54-acre forest with scenic views and diverse plant exhibits. Ideal for photography and family outings. Open in Spring and Fall, it's a popular spot with easy access.

The Majestic Shores of Lake Huron★ 7.8⌖ 66 miWater Sports
Lake Huron

The Majestic Shores of Lake Huron

Explore Lake Huron with its vast waters and picturesque islands. The lake offers stunning views and activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Popular for its natural beauty and cultural significance, it attracts adventurers and history buffs alike.

Water SportsView Details→
Paddling on Holston River Paddle Trail★ 7.8⌖ 72 miPaddling
Knoxville

Paddling on Holston River Paddle Trail

Explore paddling on the Holston River Paddle Trail near Knoxville, Tennessee. This easy route is perfect for beginner paddlers, offering serene waters and excellent birding opportunities. Ideal seasons are spring and fall.

Discover Ocqueoc Falls★ 4.5⌖ 79 miSightseeing
Ocqueoc Falls

Discover Ocqueoc Falls

Visit Ocqueoc Falls in Michigan's Huron National Forest for a serene family-friendly experience. Enjoy the waterfall views, accessible trails, and wildlife sightings. Easy access makes it ideal for all, with best visits during spring and fall.

SightseeingView Details→
Colorado River Fishing in Austin★ 7.0⌖ 87 miColorado River fishing
Austin

Colorado River Fishing in Austin

Explore fishing on the Colorado River in Austin, Texas. Enjoy easy access to calm waters teaming with bass and sunfish, perfect for both beginners and seasoned anglers. Visit during spring and fall for the best experience. Family-friendly amenities include boat rentals and picnic areas.

Colorado River fishingView Details→

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
⌖ 5.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oscoda, Michigan

A waterfront town offering serene forest landscapes, Lake Huron shoreline, and diverse outdoor adventure including paddling, hiking, and winter sports.

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

East Tawas, Michigan

A peaceful lakeside town offering diverse outdoor activities focused on water, trails, and seasonal recreation along Lake Huron’s scenic shores.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Tawas City
⌖ 8.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tawas City, Michigan

A charming lakeside town offering peaceful beach access and diverse outdoor activities on Michigan's Lake Huron shore.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Hale
⌖ 20.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hale, Michigan

A quiet countryside gateway blending tranquil river access with rich forest trails and seasonal outdoor pursuits in central Michigan.

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

Harrisville, Michigan

A quiet small town on Lake Huron offering easy access to water-based recreation and nearby forest trails for all seasons.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water activities; Winter for snowmobilingExplore Town
Lincoln
⌖ 23.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lincoln, Michigan

A quiet rural town offering a peaceful gateway to natural outdoor experiences including hiking, paddling, and snow activities in Northern Michigan.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snow sportsExplore 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.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.