Looking for a peaceful Lake Huron getaway filled with beaches, forests, and small-town charm? Head to Oscoda! Nestled along Michigan’s Sunrise Coast, Oscoda is a gateway to outdoor adventure with sugar-sand beaches, river paddling, scenic drives, and hidden gems. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the lake or hiking through the Huron National Forest, Oscoda is a nature lover’s dream.
Oscoda, MI Highlights:
- Relax on Oscoda Beach Park: Pristine public beach with clear water, picnic spots, and gorgeous sunrises over Lake Huron.
- Float the Au Sable River: Paddle, tube, or fish on one of Michigan’s most scenic and serene rivers.
- Drive the River Road National Scenic Byway: Take in forest views, overlooks, and trails along this 22-mile route paralleling the Au Sable River.
- Hike Lumberman’s Monument Trail: Learn about Michigan’s logging history while enjoying panoramic river views from forested bluffs.
- Explore Iargo Springs: Peaceful site with wooden stairs leading to crystal-clear springs and boardwalks beside the river.
Best Time to Visit Oscoda, MI
The best time to visit Oscoda is from late spring through early fall (May–October). Warm weather and lake breezes make it ideal for beach days, paddling, and hiking. Fall colors are spectacular in September and October, while winter offers peaceful snowscapes for cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
How to Get to Oscoda, MI
- By Car: Located on US-23 along Lake Huron, Oscoda is about 2.5 hours from Flint, 3.5 hours from Detroit, and 4 hours from Grand Rapids.
- By Air: Alpena County Regional Airport (1 hr away) offers connections via Detroit. Bishop Airport in Flint is a larger nearby option.
Where to Stay in Oscoda, MI
- Camp Inn Lodge – Family-friendly motel with an indoor pool, close to the beach and downtown Oscoda.
- Blue Horizon Court – Classic lakeside cottages offering rustic comfort and lake views.
- AuSable River Queen Campground & Cabins – For a nature-first stay with cabins or campsites along the river.
Best Things to Do in Oscoda, MI
1. Honor Michigan’s Logging Legacy at the Lumberman’s Monument
Lumberman's Monument in Oscoda, Michigan, is dedicated to the workers of the Michigan early logging industry. The 14-foot bronze statue includes a log and three figures: a timber cruiser, a sawyer and a river rat on the granite base engraved with a memorial and the names of the logging families who dedicated their lives to the logging industry in the area. The monument was built in 1931 and is located in the Huron-Manistee National Forests along the Au Sable River in the northeastern part of the Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Lumberman monument is part of the River Road Scenic Byway, a 22-mile scenic drive between Oscoda and South Branch that runs along the magnificent Au Sable River. It is a designated National Scenic Byway
5401 Monument Rd, Oscoda, MI 48750, Phone: 989-362-8961
2. If You Love Scenic Drives, Cruise the River Road National Scenic Byway
The River Road National Scenic Byway or the River Road National Forest Scenic Byway is a 23 1/2-mile-long road that goes eastward into the Huron National Forest and ends in the historic village of Oscoda near Lake Huron. The road follows the historic Au Sable River that has been traditionally used for transportation of Michigan’s giant white pine that floated from the forest to the saw mills on Lake Huron. The roadway passes by a number of recreational areas and offers drivers beautiful local scenery. The River Road byway was declared National Forest Scenic Byway and National Scenic Byway status.
Oscoda, Michigan
3. Find Tranquility and Natural Beauty at Iargo Springs
Iargo Springs in Oscoda, Michigan, are natural springs formed from water that flows from underground to the surface. The springs can be accessed from the road by steep stairs going down to the Au Sable River. There are several viewing decks and a boardwalk through the springs. Man-made barriers surround the springs and form small waterfalls. The wooden boardwalk is more than 1,000 feet long as it winds through the springs. The springs are located just off of River Road National Scenic Byway, which has a panoramic view of the Au Sable River. During the pre-settlement time, the springs were used as a source of drinking water and dams were built by early loggers at the turn of the century. The dams were used to divert water to the nearby logging camps. The Highbanks Trail starts at the springs and heads east past Lumberman’s Monument.
Ogoda, Michigan
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Explore Aviation History at the Wurtsmith Air Museum
Located on the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Wurtsmith Air Museum is a volunteer, non-profit organization that works on preserving the history of Wurtsmith Air Force Base and the history of aviation in Northeastern Michigan. There are three hangars full of exhibits telling the story about the military and aviation history. There are aircraft displays, numerous artifacts, equipment, WWI Uniform with its history described, flight manual and dog tags of local WWI pilots, submarine models, coast guard and merchant marine articles, Viet Nam uniforms and medals and much more. The museum also has a number of planes, including a damaged L-19, retrieved from Albuquerque, New Mexico, a CG4 “WACO” combat glider, and more.
4071 E Van Ettan St, Oscoda, MI 48750, Phone: 989-739-7555
5. Tee Off and Unwind at Lakewood Shores Resort
Snuggled among northern Michigan ancient hardwoods, Lakewood Shores Resort offers great golf, but also wonderful accommodations, modern meeting facilities and world-class cuisine. The resort offers 152 rooms with great view and a lovely patio overlooking the courses. Main dining room serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Scotland Cove, located at the 19th hole, serves soup, sandwiches and quick snacks. The resort has two renowned courses, the Gailes and Blackshire, both designed by Kevin Aldridge. The Gailes was designed to look and feel like the famous seaside courses of Scotland, with large double greens, sod-faced pot bunkers, meandering berms, and long fescue grasses. Blackshire recreates the look of the famous Pine Valley C.C. with s a similar rugged feel, large sand waste areas and rolling greens.
7751 Cedar Lake Rd, Oscoda, MI 48750, Phone: 800-882-2493
Where to Eat in Oscoda, MI
- Tait’s Bill of Fare – Upscale American dining with steaks, seafood, and a cozy, vintage vibe.
- Wiltse’s Brew & Family Restaurant – Family-friendly spot offering house-brewed beers and hearty pub fare.
- Red Rooster Grill – Local favorite for breakfast and homestyle comfort food.
If you are interested in local events:
- Oscoda Art on the Beach (June) – Local art and craft fair held lakeside with food vendors and music.
- Au Sable River Canoe Marathon (July) – One of the nation’s premier canoe races, ending in Oscoda after a 120-mile overnight paddle.
- Oscoda Rockfest (summer) – Outdoor music festival showcasing regional rock and classic bands.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Oscoda, MI:
- Harrisville (20–25 min) – Quaint lakeside town with a harbor, state park, and small art galleries.
- Alpena (1 hr) – Visit Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and explore shipwreck history along Lake Huron.
- Huron-Manistee National Forest (surrounding) – Discover dozens of trails, hidden lakes, and picnic spots across the region.
- East Tawas and Tawas Point State Park (40–45 min) – Sandy beaches, lighthouse views, and charming shops downtown.
- Rose City and Rifle River Recreation Area (1.5 hrs) – Great for inland lake kayaking, hiking, and fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Oscoda located?
- Oscoda is a small community in Michigan, situated on the north side of the Au Sable River, where it flows into Lake Huron.
- What attractions are near Oscoda?
- Wurtsmith Air Force Base is located nearby, and the Wurtsmith Air Museum is housed within the base.
- The Lumberman's Monument honors the lumberjacks who originally lived in the area.
- The Huron National Forest, which is near Oscoda, offers great opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- Iargo Springs, natural springs located on the Au Sable River, are also nearby.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Amazing View Motel – A cozy stay with beautiful lake views.
Hike the Au Sable River Trail – Enjoy scenic overlooks and fresh spring air.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for water activities.
Camp Inn Lodge – A family-friendly stay with beach access.
Relax on Oscoda Beach Park – Enjoy soft sandy shores along Lake Huron.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and breathtaking fall foliage.
Huron House Bed & Breakfast – A romantic lakeside retreat with cozy accommodations.
Take a Scenic Drive on River Road – Witness stunning autumn colors along the Au Sable River.
Winter (December-February) – Cold and snowy, perfect for winter recreation.
Pinewood Motel – A budget-friendly option for winter travelers.
Go Snowmobiling on the Huron National Forest Trails – Experience Michigan’s winter wonderland on scenic trails.
Plan Your Trip