Monument Campground
4.6465 reviewsOscoda, MI 48750, USA
Monument Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates for standard non-electric sites range from $15 to $30.
About this campground
Step back in time at Monument Campground, where over a century of camping tradition awaits beneath towering red pines. Established in 1909 as one of the Huron National Forest's pioneering campgrounds, this rustic retreat offers a perfect blend of natural serenity and historical discovery. Fully accessible pathways wind through the pine plantation, leading campers to secluded sites while keeping the fascinating Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center and scenic river trails within easy reach.
Monument Campground is tailored for rustic camping, offering options for tents and smaller RVs. Sites are well-suited for those seeking a quiet, secluded experience.
Historical SignificanceThe echoes of Michigan's legendary lumbering era come alive at the adjacent Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center, where sawdust and sweat built an empire from these very forests. Through captivating interactive exhibits and compelling historical videos, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of the brave loggers who once floated massive pine logs down the Au Sable River, transforming wilderness into the backbone of America's growth.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Monument Campground bring gentle breezes through the pines, with comfortable temperatures that invite long afternoons of exploration. The peak camping season typically enjoys dry, pleasant conditions with only occasional light showers to refresh the forest air—perfect weather for everything from morning hikes to evening campfires under the stars.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery on your visit, the campground's gentle terrain makes it accessible and comfortable for campers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryPrivacy and tranquility define each campsite, where majestic oaks and towering red pines create natural cathedral ceilings overhead. The legendary Au Sable River flows nearby, its 138-mile journey to Lake Huron providing endless opportunities for riverside contemplation. Campers consistently marvel at the interplay of dappled sunlight through the pine canopy and the mesmerizing river views that make every sunrise and sunset a masterpiece.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive Huron-Manistee National Forests, Monument Campground sits amid a carefully cultivated red pine plantation that tells its own story of forest regeneration. The nearby Au Sable River, carving its 138-mile path from west to east before joining Lake Huron, has shaped both the landscape and the human history of this remarkable region for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers fully accessible camping facilities within a red pine plantation. Each site is designed to accommodate basic accessibility needs.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and well-separated, providing privacy. Many reviews highlight the generous setup including paved pads and large areas for tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacyHighly private due to tree cover and distance between sites. "Secluded and shaded" describes the general layout, with specific references to the privacy provided by oak and red pine trees.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the Lumberman’s Monument parking lot due to noise and light pollution from vending machines and displays.
Best CampsitesSites 001, 003, 005, 009, 016, and 019 are repeatedly praised for their spaciousness and proximity to key attractions.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit or within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated but sites are described as spacious and suitable for families.
Groups
No specific group camping options are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLoop-style layout with inner loop for reservable sites and outer loop for first-come, first-served sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15, 2025, to October 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites available on a first-come, first-served basis for those not reservable; outer loop sites are primarily FCFS.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational activities are available at Monument Campground, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Campers can also participate in educational programs at the nearby Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center.
Hiking
The Highbanks Hiking Trail is directly accessible from the campground. Trails nearby offer scenic views of the AuSable River and easy access to Lumberman's Monument and Cooke Dam Pond. Many user reviews praise the hiking opportunities.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available nearby, with close proximity to the AuSable River and Lake Huron.Biking
Biking trails are mentioned in the broader context of the Huron-Manistee National Forests, but specific biking paths within the campground are not detailed.Boating
The AuSable River offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, as reported by some campers.Wildlife viewing
The campground's forested setting provides ample opportunities for observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campers can visit the Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center for hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and historical displays about the area's lumber industry.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking opportunities along the AuSable River are highlighted by user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be confined to designated fire rings. Downed wood may be used as firewood, but imported firewood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include raccoons (reported to damage tents and screens) and mosquitoes, as noted in user reviews.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned, but the nearest towns of Oscoda and East Tawas likely provide hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025, to October 15, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site. Campers are reminded to leave their sites clean and use designated trash facilities.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Au Sable River and a short drive from Lake Huron.
Common complaintsOccasional issues with noisy neighbors or out-of-service bathrooms. Poor cell service is also frequently cited.
HostHosts Pat and Kathy are frequently mentioned as friendly, helpful, and proactive in maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
Oscoda, MI 48750, USA
Driving directionsFrom East Tawas: Follow Wilber Road north to Monument Road. Continue on Monument Road 11 miles to River Road. Turn right and travel about 0.5 miles to the campground entrance on the left. From Hale, Michigan: Travel 11 miles north and east along M-65, turn right onto River Road and continue 3.5 miles to the campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with clear signage guiding visitors to the entrance. Seasonal road conditions are not mentioned, but gravel driveways for individual campsites are noted.Nearby places
Oscoda (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), East Tawas (approximately 15 miles), and Hale (approximately 11 miles).
Nearby supplies
According to user reviews, supplies can be found along Highway 65 near the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
65 reviews
Monument Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Monument Campground is highly praised for its quiet, spacious, and rustic environment. Many reviewers appreciated the privacy of campsites and the well-maintained facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is described as clean, quiet, and private. Vault toilets are noted for being clean and well-stocked, and the camp hosts are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Based on 65 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include occasional issues with maintenance such as a non-functional bathroom, poor cell reception, and the lack of showers or electrical hookups.
Based on 65 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring firewood as it is not sold on-site. Plan for limited cell reception and consider Lake Huron nearby for additional water activities.
Based on 65 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive reviews are consistent across seasons, but fall receives particular acclaim for its quiet setting and natural beauty. Mosquitoes are noted as a concern in the summer.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Each site has a picnic table, a pole to hang lanterns & trash, a fire ring, and a charcoal grill." - Hannah DeVilbiss. "The campground is nice and very well maintained. Lots of shade." - Jessica A....
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #19 is noted as perfect for a 26-foot trailer and well-laid out. Sites #9 and #16 are frequently mentioned for their cleanliness and spaciousness.
Based on 65 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is described as fully accessible, with sites accommodating basic accessibility needs.
Based on 65 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. No specific complaints or praise related to pets were noted.
Based on 65 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025