
Aune-Osborn Campground and Park
Campground on the St. Marys River, offering prime views of freighters and close proximity to the Soo Locks. Affordable with clean facilities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Aune-Osborn Campground and Park
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Campground on the St. Marys River, offering prime views of freighters and close proximity to the Soo Locks. Affordable with clean facilities.
"This may be our favorite campground to date!! The views are fantastic!"

🚢 Track Boat Arrivals
Use the Marine Traffic app to predict and track freighter arrivals for the best viewing opportunities. :iphone:
🛏️ Site Selection is Key
Many sites are back-in only. Prioritize waterfront sites for the best freighter views. :camping:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Freighter & 'Laker' Watching
Along the St. Marys River waterfront
Witness massive freighters and 'Lakers' navigate the shipping canal. A truly unique spectacle for maritime enthusiasts.

Proximity to Soo Locks
Walking distance
Conveniently located near the famous Soo Locks, offering easy access to boat tours and maritime history.

Clean & Friendly Atmosphere
Throughout the campground
Enjoy spotless facilities and a welcoming environment with fellow campers. A peaceful retreat by the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Early for Prime Freighter Views
Water & Electric, No Sewer Hookups
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Track Boat Arrivals
Use the Marine Traffic app to predict and track freighter arrivals for the best viewing opportunities. :iphone:
🛏️ Site Selection is Key
Many sites are back-in only. Prioritize waterfront sites for the best freighter views. :camping:
💧 Dump Station Strategy
Two dump stations are available, reducing wait times. Use them efficiently before departing. :rv:
☀️ Limited Shade
Be prepared for limited shade. Consider bringing extra shade structures for comfort. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Track Boat Arrivals
Use the Marine Traffic app to predict and track freighter arrivals for the best viewing opportunities. :iphone:
🛏️ Site Selection is Key
Many sites are back-in only. Prioritize waterfront sites for the best freighter views. :camping:
💧 Dump Station Strategy
Two dump stations are available, reducing wait times. Use them efficiently before departing. :rv:
☀️ Limited Shade
Be prepared for limited shade. Consider bringing extra shade structures for comfort. :sunwithface:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Stays
Dogs are welcomed here, making it a great spot for travelers with furry companions. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Aune-Osborn Campground for its incredible freighter viewing opportunities and remarkably low prices. The clean facilities and friendly atmosphere add to the positive experience, though some note the limited shade and back-in-only sites. It's a highly recommended spot for anyone interested in maritime activity.
"Spent 4 nights in our fifth wheel in site 72 & loved our time watch the freighters & lakers. Our site allowed us to pull in either way to afford the best views of the water, however most all other sites are back-in only. Campground is next to the boat launch & within walking distance to the Original Boat Tours. Laundry facilities were clean & reasonable."
TerryLisa Moore
"We HIGHLY recommend this campground. If you enjoy watching freighters, you must stay at Aune Osborn.
The sites have both water and electric. Unfortunately, they don’t have sewer, but there are two easily accessible dump stations that reduce the chance of waiting in line when leaving.
The price is amazingly low and the views are fantastic! As a result, the sites fill up quickly so book as soon as you possibly can."
A Conner
"If you like to camp to watch the 'Lakers' go by plus the river flowing and bird watching; this is the place!
It has electric and water, also mostly 30 Amp hook-ups, so check closely if you want a 50amp."
Ellen Straw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aune-Osborn Campground is located right on the shipping canal leading to the Soo Locks. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stopover for those traveling to Canada. Many visitors find it convenient for exploring the local area.
Yes, its prime location on the waterfront makes it straightforward to locate. It's situated next to the boat launch, which is a good landmark.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point, but it's generally located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, along the St. Marys River. Using a GPS or mapping app is recommended.
Public transport options may be limited in this area. It's best to plan your travel by car or RV.
Absolutely! The campground is within walking distance to the Original Boat Tours and close to the Soo Locks, offering plenty to see and do.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The price for camping at Aune-Osborn is described as 'amazingly low,' making it a great value for the experience. Specific rates can be found on their official booking platform.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your campsite as soon as possible, as sites fill up quickly, especially those with prime views of the freighters.
Campgrounds typically operate 24/7 for entry and exit, but check-in and check-out times may apply. It's best to confirm specific hours with the campground management.
While the campground has camping fees, access to the park area for viewing freighters might be free or have a minimal day-use fee. Confirm with local park authorities.
Refund policies vary by campground. It's advisable to review the cancellation policy at the time of booking or contact the campground directly for details.
🎫 🏕️ Onsite Experience
Campsites offer water and electric hookups, with most being 30 Amp. While many sites are back-in only, some allow pull-in access for better water views. There are no sewer hookups.
Yes, the campground boasts spotlessly clean restroom facilities. Laundry facilities are also available and reasonably priced.
The campground is well-suited for RVs and fifth wheels, with water and electric hookups. Dump stations are conveniently located for waste disposal.
The best way is to secure a waterfront campsite. Using the Marine Traffic app can help you track and predict when ships will pass by.
Cell service can be spotty in some areas. While not explicitly mentioned, Wi-Fi is not a standard amenity at many campgrounds. It's best to be prepared for limited connectivity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The campground itself does not appear to have on-site dining facilities. Visitors typically bring their own food and cooking supplies for their campsites.
Sault Ste. Marie offers various dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. You'll find a range of choices a short drive from the campground.
Yes, campfires are a highlight! Some sites even come with pre-stacked firewood, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening.
Yes, there are grocery stores in Sault Ste. Marie where you can stock up on food and camping essentials before or during your stay.
Absolutely! With water and electric hookups, you can set up your cooking area, use portable stoves, and enjoy meals with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront campsites offer unparalleled opportunities to photograph freighters as they pass. The St. Marys River and the surrounding natural beauty also provide excellent photo subjects.
You can capture stunning shots of massive freighters, the dynamic St. Marys River, sunrises and sunsets over the water, and the general ambiance of a waterfront campground.
While you can see the activity related to the Soo Locks from the campground, for direct photography of the locks themselves, a visit to the official Soo Locks viewing areas is recommended.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the freighters and water.
While not directly offered at the campground, local tourism offices or photography groups in Sault Ste. Marie might have information on relevant tours or workshops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a waterfront campsite for the best views and to keep the kids entertained with the constant ship traffic. While there isn't extensive playground equipment, the open spaces and proximity to the water offer plenty of room for exploration. Remember to pack sunscreen and hats as shade can be limited. The welcoming atmosphere extends to pets, so your family dog can join in on the adventure too!
🚢 Maritime Enthusiasts
Leverage the Marine Traffic app to track ship movements and plan your viewing schedule for maximum enjoyment. Being within walking distance of the Original Boat Tours and the iconic Soo Locks further enhances the maritime experience. You can spend your days immersed in the world of shipping and your evenings relaxing by the water, listening to the sounds of passing ships.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider packing your own food and utilizing the campsite's cooking facilities. While there are dump stations, planning your water usage can also help extend your stay without needing to visit them frequently. The proximity to the Soo Locks and boat tours means you can enjoy major attractions without significant travel costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Freighter Watching
The campground's location is strategic for maritime enthusiasts. Being right on the shipping channel means you're in the heart of the action. Whether you're a seasoned boater or just enjoy watching the impressive scale of these vessels, Aune-Osborn delivers. The sound of the ships, the sheer size, and the constant flow of traffic create a captivating atmosphere. It's an experience that sets this campground apart from many others.
For the best viewing, securing a waterfront campsite is key. These spots offer unobstructed views and the chance to feel truly immersed in the maritime world. Even if you don't get a waterfront site, the general ambiance of the campground is enhanced by the passing ships. It’s a constant reminder of the vital role this waterway plays in commerce and transportation.
Camping Comforts and Practicalities
The facilities at Aune-Osborn are consistently praised for their cleanliness. Visitors highlight the spotlessly clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds, contributing to a pleasant stay. Laundry facilities are also available and noted as being reasonably priced. For those traveling with pets, the campground is welcoming to dogs, making it a great option for families with furry members.
It's important to note that many of the campsites are back-in only, so campers should be prepared for this when selecting their spot. Additionally, some reviewers mention a lack of shade trees and privacy at certain sites. Planning for sun protection and personal space is advisable. Despite these minor points, the overall consensus is that the campground offers excellent value and a friendly atmosphere.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit