Your Guide to Kayaking and Canoeing Near Oscoda

Located in the heart of Michigan’s Sunrise Coast, on the shores of Lake Huron and the mouth of the Au Sable River, our small community of Oscoda is a summer paradise for those who love life on the water. Oscoda is located in the heart of one of the premiere locations for watersport in the Midwest.

For those passionate about kayaking, canoeing and paddling, there are a multitude of options along Lake Huron and the Au Sable. Whether you want to spend a vacation on the water or admiring it from your private porch, or around the firepit, our Michigan bed and breakfast is the perfect destination for your getaway.

Relax in comfort on the beach and watch the Great Lakes Freightliners passing by in the night from the comfort of your private hot tub under the stars. As an adult-only lakefront bed and breakfast, we offer guests the best of both worlds — the perfect environment for an outdoor adventure in one of the premier canoeing destinations in the country and relaxation in luxurious accommodations.

Oscoda’s Kayaking and Canoeing Scene

Located in the Northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, the Au Sable cuts a leisurely path southeastward over 138 miles. Tamed by a series of six dams that provide hydroelectric power to the region, the Au Sable is also known for its world-class brown trout fishing. As the river, which has an average depth of 2 to 4 feet - approaches the mighty lake at the end of its journey, there are dozens of smaller rivers, inlets, small lakes and tributaries that provide options for kayaking and canoeing for those who seek guided tours or prefer to adventure on their own.

The geography of the region through which the river leisurely flows is bedrock for the paddling and kayaking community that has organically grown throughout Oscoda over the years. With the dams controlling water flow, the river’s scenic beauty and sandy bottom – Au Sable translates to ‘Of The Sand’ – makes it the perfect place for paddlers of all levels to explore, commune with nature or even compete.

Highlighting the Au Sable Canoe Marathon

The Au Sable Canoe Marathon, also known as “The Marathon” stands as a testament to the spirit of adventure and the love of canoe racing, bringing together athletes and enthusiasts from all walks of life to celebrate this unique and historic event.

The race was conceived in 1947 by Harold Fisher, a local conservation officer, and Bill Riviere, a canoeing enthusiast. The goal was to promote outdoor activities and the sport of canoe racing.

Held annually on the last full weekend in July, the Au Sable Canoe Marathon continues to be a highlight of the paddling calendar. It is part of the Triple Crown of Canoe Racing, along with the General Clinton Canoe Regatta and the Adirondack Canoe Classic.

The race is known for its grueling endurance demands and strategic elements, with paddlers racing through the night, navigating challenging rapids, and enduring physical and mental fatigue.

Staged over 120 miles, the marathon is a grueling, non-stop race from Grayling to Oscoda. This isn’t a race for someone who rented their gear from a local shop to do on a whim. Elite paddlers from across the country come to compete through fatigue and darkness for 14+ hours to complete the course.

If you're looking to experience the excitement of the Au Sable Canoe Marathon, we highly recommend starting your weekend in Grayling. Enjoy the festival that kicks off in the days leading up to the race, filled with activities, food, and fun. On Saturday, find a prime spot to watch the race start and soak in the lively atmosphere. Spend the day indulging in delicious food and drinks while celebrating with fellow spectators. On Sunday morning, head to Oscoda to join the crowd and witness the thrilling race finish.

Many dedicated fans follow the race along its course, but there's a reason it's dubbed the "World's Toughest Spectator Race." Much of the marathon takes place at night through the remote areas of Michigan. To navigate this challenging terrain, you'll need a flashlight and either a downloaded or paper map. Packing a cooler with drinks and snacks is also essential, as stores in the Huron-Manistee National Forest are few and far between after midnight. Keeping up with the competitors can be just as demanding as the race itself, so come prepared for an adventure!

Best Places for Kayaking and Canoeing Near Oscoda

If the Au Sable Canoe Marathon gets you excited to try a little exploration yourself, whether embarking on a romantic sunset paddle with a loved one or discovering secluded coves and sandy beaches, the options for kayaking and canoeing near Oscoda are abundant, promising unforgettable experiences amid Michigan's stunning outdoors.

Au Sable River

Paddling through the 23-mile National Scenic River portion of the Au Sable offers a glimpse into Michigan's untamed beauty. The river meanders through stunning landscapes, flanked by lush forests and sand dune bluffs. There are numerous paddling options along the Au Sable, ranging from overnight camping trips to guided tours and well-mapped routes for solo adventurers.

For beginners, it’s advisable to paddle parts of the river below the dams, where the flow is more consistent. As you approach the dams, you'll encounter ponds—some resembling small lakes—where the water is calmer, requiring more effort to navigate. Several canoe rental shops in the area offer suggested itineraries and can provide everything you need for a memorable trip.

Huron-Manistee National Forests

Uniquely situated in the Lower Peninsula, the Huron-Manistee National Forests have a combined area of nearly a million acres in patches near Lake Huron to the East and Lake Michigan to the West. Within the forests are more than 18,00 miles of rivers and 17,000 acres of lakes to be explored both on motorized boats or by kayak or canoe. According to the National Forest Service, the section of the Au Sable from Alcona Dam to Loud Pond, then below Foot Dam is perfect for paddling as the river stretches and the current picks up. In addition to river paddling options, there are several lakes  you can explore including Jose Lake on the Eastern side. 

The National Forest boasts spectacular scenic views, some of which are best appreciated by stepping out of your kayak and exploring higher vantage points. One such spot is the Au Sable Scenic Overlook. Accessible via the River Road National Scenic Byway, this overlook provides breathtaking vistas of the river and the expansive National Forest beyond.

Oscoda Canoe Rentals and Services

There are several canoe liveries and outfitters that offer equipment rentals – including canoes and kayaks – as well as guided tours or suggested routes.

One option is Oscoda Canoe Rental (OCR). Known for its slogan "Ride the Lazy River of the North," OCR offers canoe, kayak, and tubing trips. They provide two and four-hour excursions, with guests parking and registering at the OCR office on River Road. OCR transports both guests and equipment to one of two launch sites, with all trips concluding at the OCR landing. While trips are designed to last 2 or 4 hours, guests are welcome to picnic, stop, and rest as long as they like. The only requirement is to return by 6 p.m. to avoid late charges.

Tips for First-Time Paddlers

If you’re taking a first time kayaking or canoeing trip can be a great experience but it’s important to follow a number of safety tips. Among the most important of these is staying sober. It is illegal to operate a watercraft while intoxicated and that includes kayaks and canoes. Be smart and be safe. The Au Sable and surrounding rivers are not particularly dangerous, but you will be undertaking a water sport that has some inherent dangers. Do not operate the canoe or kayak anywhere near one of the several dams on the river. Always use the safe portage points.

Make sure to pack and use a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. A spare – and safely stored paddle – is probably a good idea as well. If you’re planning on kayaking, a bilge bump is a good idea. A signaling whistle to alert motorized boats to your presence is also required.

Exploring the Lower Peninsula by canoe or kayak offers a unique glimpse into nature that many people never get to experience. The Au Sable River stands as one of the Midwest’s hidden gems, a must-see for anyone seeking a truly remarkable adventure. Once you experience its beauty, you'll likely find yourself eager to return. Even if paddling isn't your style, the festivities surrounding the Au Sable Canoe Marathon provide ample reason to visit year after year. Stay on the water at our Michigan bed and breakfast a great location to start your exploration of our local rivers and lakes.