Summer is on the horizon, and if you’re like most Midwestern travelers, you’re ready to get something on the calendar. But with rising costs top of mind, planning a getaway can feel like a balancing act. The good news? You don’t have to go far or spend big to make it memorable.
Tucked along the Lake Huron shoreline, Oscoda delivers the kind of classic Up North summer people come back to year after year: sunrise views, cool water, forested trails, and plenty of ways to fill a long weekend without stretching your budget. Here’s how to make the most of it.
If your ideal summer day includes fresh air and a little adrenaline, the Wildcat trail system delivers. Winding through the Huron National Forest just south of the Au Sable River, this growing network of singletrack offers a mix of smooth flow and short, punchy climbs. It’s the kind of place where you can ride at your own pace and still feel like you’ve covered some ground.
Cost: Free
Few things say “northern Michigan summer” like time on the Au Sable. Known for its clear water and gentle current, this stretch of river is ideal for a relaxed float or a half-day paddle. Pack a cooler, bring a friend, and let the river set the pace.
Local outfitters make it easy to plan a trip, with rentals typically ranging from $25–$40 depending on distance. Whether you’re in it for the scenery, the fishing, or just a quiet few hours on the water, this is one of the best values around.
Rent a canoe or kayak for a half-day float from local outfitters:
Alcona Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.735.2973 or 800.526.7080
North Country Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.341.4313
Oscoda Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.739.9040
Settle In at Oscoda Beach Park
For a full day without spending a dime, head straight to Oscoda Beach Park. With over 1,000 feet of sandy Lake Huron shoreline, it’s easy to claim a spot and stay awhile. Families appreciate the splash pad and playground, while others come for the pier, boardwalk, and easy access to downtown shops and restaurants.
It’s simple, convenient, and exactly what a summer beach day should be.
Cost: Free
Catch a Movie or Live Music by the Water
As the sun goes down, the shoreline stays lively. The Rotary Band Shell at the beach park hosts free movie nights on Wednesdays and live music on Thursdays throughout the summer. Bring a chair or a blanket and settle in—this is small-town summer at its best.
Cost: Free
Take a Short Trip to Tawas Point
Just down the road, Tawas Point State Park offers a change of scenery that’s well worth the short drive. Often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” it’s known for shallow, warm water and excellent birdwatching. If you’re up for it, climb the steps inside Tawas Point Lighthouse for sweeping views of Lake Huron.
Cost: Michigan Recreation Passport ($14/year for residents)
A Summer Without the Splurge
You don’t need flights, long drives, or a packed itinerary to make summer count. In Oscoda, the best moments tend to be the simplest ones, morning light over the lake, a slow drift downriver, an evening spent listening to music by the shore.
And in a year when travel costs are on everyone’s mind, that kind of easy, affordable escape feels just right. Start planning today!