4.4
Public Campground
085W
Oscoda, Michigan
Campground in Michigan.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Thurston Park Campground
Campground in Michigan.
Nestled in the heart of Michigan's picturesque lake country, Thurston Park Campground offers RV travelers an exceptional gateway to the natural beauty and outdoor recreation that defines the Central Lake region. This public campground provides a welcoming home base for those seeking to explore one of northern Michigan's most charming and vibrant destinations.
Central Lake itself is a gem of Michigan tourism, known for its stunning waterfront community and small-town character that maintains authentic charm while offering modern conveniences. The lake is the centerpiece of the area's appeal, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Whether you're an angler hoping to catch walleye and pike, a water sports enthusiast, or simply someone who loves being near the water, Central Lake's recreational opportunities are world-class. The surrounding landscape of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula creates a backdrop of natural beauty, with forests, rolling terrain, and that distinctive Great Lakes region character that makes this area so special.
The town of Central Lake provides excellent amenities and attractions within easy reach. Local restaurants, shops, and galleries reflect the area's creative community spirit. The downtown area offers a pleasant walk with plenty of character, and seasonal events bring the community together throughout the year. For families, the area provides activities suitable for all ages, from casual lakeside strolls to more adventurous outdoor pursuits.
Beyond the immediate area, RV travelers will find themselves perfectly positioned to explore some of Michigan's most beloved destinations. The region offers proximity to state parks, scenic drives, and numerous other lakes and natural areas that characterize northern Michigan's appeal. Fall colors in this region are particularly spectacular, making autumn an especially rewarding time to visit.
Thurston Park Campground serves as an ideal launching point for both relaxation and adventure, whether you're planning a week-long stay to decompress or using it as a base camp for exploring the broader region. With its strong guest ratings, it's clear that visitors consistently find value and enjoyment here.
Central Lake itself is a gem of Michigan tourism, known for its stunning waterfront community and small-town character that maintains authentic charm while offering modern conveniences. The lake is the centerpiece of the area's appeal, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Whether you're an angler hoping to catch walleye and pike, a water sports enthusiast, or simply someone who loves being near the water, Central Lake's recreational opportunities are world-class. The surrounding landscape of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula creates a backdrop of natural beauty, with forests, rolling terrain, and that distinctive Great Lakes region character that makes this area so special.
The town of Central Lake provides excellent amenities and attractions within easy reach. Local restaurants, shops, and galleries reflect the area's creative community spirit. The downtown area offers a pleasant walk with plenty of character, and seasonal events bring the community together throughout the year. For families, the area provides activities suitable for all ages, from casual lakeside strolls to more adventurous outdoor pursuits.
Beyond the immediate area, RV travelers will find themselves perfectly positioned to explore some of Michigan's most beloved destinations. The region offers proximity to state parks, scenic drives, and numerous other lakes and natural areas that characterize northern Michigan's appeal. Fall colors in this region are particularly spectacular, making autumn an especially rewarding time to visit.
Thurston Park Campground serves as an ideal launching point for both relaxation and adventure, whether you're planning a week-long stay to decompress or using it as a base camp for exploring the broader region. With its strong guest ratings, it's clear that visitors consistently find value and enjoyment here.
4.7
Rating
45
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Central Lake is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Michigan weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Central Lake.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Central Lake. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Thurston Park Campground Reviews
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S S
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by S S
It's a small campground for RVs and tents, with a place to put in your boat, and you can even rent a dock while you camp. It's very convenient. It sits on intermediate lake, with great views and it's not far to walk into town or drive into belaire, Alden, or charlevoix. It's got great clean personal bathroom/showers on both sides of the building and there was never a wait even though it was a full... It's a small campground for RVs and tents, with a place to put in your boat, and you can even rent a dock while you camp. It's very convenient. It sits on intermediate lake, with great views and it's not far to walk into town or drive into belaire, Alden, or charlevoix. It's got great clean personal bathroom/showers on both sides of the building and there was never a wait even though it was a full campground. It was quiet after ten, so it was relaxing and I enjoy it every year we visit!
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Katelyn Griffin
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Katelyn Griffin
Such an amazing campground! I took my nephew with me to go camping and help with an art show nearby. It was an absolutely PERFECT campground for us. Great clean private bathrooms. Park managers were absolutely great! Everyone at the campground was so friendly and helpful. I am already looking at my schedule to book again!
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Katelyn Griffin
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Katelyn Griffin
Such an amazing campground! I took my nephew with me to go camping and help with an art show nearby. It was an absolutely PERFECT campground for us. Great clean private bathrooms. Park managers were absolutely great! Everyone at the campground was so friendly and helpful. I am already looking at my schedule to book again!
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Tina Hutchinson
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Tina Hutchinson
The managers here are the best! They were awesome and came and talked to us. So welcoming. Everything is clean and this place gives off such good energy and such a peaceful atmosphere. A diamond in the rough!!! I’ll come from Ontario Canada anytime if I can come and stay here!!! Thanks again!
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Brii Vonee
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Brii Vonee
Loved this campground!! We had a camp spot near the water and a babbling brook. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The camp sites are well cared for. Very clean bathrooms with everything I could ask for. Big shower with a hose attachment, a folding seat in the shower, lots of handles to hold onto (very very handy as a disabled person!!) Also a fan always on the floor to keep it dry. There's also a... Loved this campground!! We had a camp spot near the water and a babbling brook. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The camp sites are well cared for. Very clean bathrooms with everything I could ask for. Big shower with a hose attachment, a folding seat in the shower, lots of handles to hold onto (very very handy as a disabled person!!) Also a fan always on the floor to keep it dry. There's also a boat ramp and a playground. Every person I met there, staff and campers, were so nice and helpful. I'm definitely coming back. :D
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Brii Vonee
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Brii Vonee
Loved this campground!! We had a camp spot near the water and a babbling brook. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The camp sites are well cared for. Very clean bathrooms with everything I could ask for. Big shower with a hose attachment, a folding seat in the shower, lots of handles to hold onto (very very handy as a disabled person!!) Also a fan always on the floor to keep it dry. There's also a... Loved this campground!! We had a camp spot near the water and a babbling brook. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The camp sites are well cared for. Very clean bathrooms with everything I could ask for. Big shower with a hose attachment, a folding seat in the shower, lots of handles to hold onto (very very handy as a disabled person!!) Also a fan always on the floor to keep it dry. There's also a boat ramp and a playground. Every person I met there, staff and campers, were so nice and helpful. I'm definitely coming back. :D
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Andrea Mosher
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Andrea Mosher
Very nice park. We had a site on the water. It’s so nice to fall asleep hearing the water lapping and wake up to a sunrise over the lake. The sites are pretty well packed in, but neighboring campers were very friendly, so there were no issues. We were there for Labor Day weekend- the park was full but quiet. The bathrooms were very clean. Management was very friendly and helpful. Would defi... Very nice park. We had a site on the water. It’s so nice to fall asleep hearing the water lapping and wake up to a sunrise over the lake. The sites are pretty well packed in, but neighboring campers were very friendly, so there were no issues. We were there for Labor Day weekend- the park was full but quiet. The bathrooms were very clean. Management was very friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend this campground.
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Andrea Mosher
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Andrea Mosher
Very nice park. We had a site on the water. It’s so nice to fall asleep hearing the water lapping and wake up to a sunrise over the lake. The sites are pretty well packed in, but neighboring campers were very friendly, so there were no issues. We were there for Labor Day weekend- the park was full but quiet. The bathrooms were very clean. Management was very friendly and helpful. Would defi... Very nice park. We had a site on the water. It’s so nice to fall asleep hearing the water lapping and wake up to a sunrise over the lake. The sites are pretty well packed in, but neighboring campers were very friendly, so there were no issues. We were there for Labor Day weekend- the park was full but quiet. The bathrooms were very clean. Management was very friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend this campground.
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