Tawas Point SP

About this Location

Tawas Point State Park is undoubtedly the best migrant trap in the Watershed. Birding is best during times of rapid migration such as during strong south winds in spring and strong north winds in fall. The spring migrants tend to follow the lakeshore and actually migrate south for a time to the tip of the point which faces southwest. Bad weather after a prolonged high-pressure situation also tends to ground many migrants in the park. Soon after these conditions subside, the spring migrants slowly work their way northward out of the park. Equally impressive migrations occur in the fall. Tawas State Park has an excellent campground and beach facilities, has a restored lighthouse with daily tours, is home to nesting Piping Plovers, and is a classic Michigan weekender’s spot all year.

The park, situated on the end of a sand spit that forms Tawas Bay along Lake Huron, has been referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” The Tawas Point Lighthouse serves as the sole representative of a true Victorian-era style station on the Great Lakes.

Tawas Point State Park, located on the end of a sand spit that forms Tawas Bay along Lake Huron, is home to 183 acres of lakeside recreation and has been referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” The park is a stopover site for hundreds of migrating birds in the spring and fall, making it a favorite spot for many bird watchers from all over the Midwest.

The park is home to a modern campground and overnight lodging facilities, popular for their location on Tawas Bay, where the water is shallow and warm for swimming. The park’s day-use area features a popular swimming beach, a picnic area and nature trail along the picturesque Lake Huron coast. From the park, visitors can access the Tawas Bay Multi-Use Trails, part of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail, along Lake Huron or explore nearby historical, natural and cultural areas along the Lumbermen's Monument Auto Tour.

The Tawas Point Lighthouse is a fascinating attraction for maritime buffs. Although it has been remodeled several times, the station serves as the sole representative of a true Victorian-era style station built on the Great Lakes. Historical interpretation is provided by the Michigan History Center.

Thanks to the Friends of Tawas Point Lighthouse and State Park for supporting the park.

Notable Trails

Tawas Point Sandy Hook Nature Trail is 1.50 miles.

The AllTrails website has descriptions and maps of hikes at Tawas Point State Park.

Content from Saginaw Bay Birding Trail webpage and Point Tawas State Park webpage