Other Recreation Areas
Nearly 60,000 acres of the majestic Huron-Manistee National Forest are located within Oscoda Township. The National Forest provides wildlife habitat for a variety of species, such as the endangered Kirtland’s Warbler. The forest’s resources also provide a mecca of recreation opportunities.
Among these opportunities are:
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Camping
- Snowmobiling
- Cross-country skiing
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Canoeing
- Bird watching, and other kinds of nature observation.
Iargo Springs Interpretive Site
Photo Credit: Denny Sierra from Great Getaways
Located on River Road National Scenic Byway. The five-acre site, which is owned and maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, identifies an area that has been recognized for more than 400 years as a natural spring with pure water. The 30-foot high observation deck with a breathtaking view of the AuSable River is handicapped accessible. Handicapped accessible toilets are also available. Approximately 265 steps lead down to the area where springs seep from the ground.
Photo Credit: Denny Sierra, Great Getaways
River Road: National Forest Scenic Byway
Designated a “National Forest Scenic Byway” in 2005, more than 100,000 people travel this road each year! Three short wave radio transmitters installed along this road provide visitors with information about the Scenic Byway and the surrounding area. The 22-mile road from Oscoda to M-65 follows the beautiful and historic AuSable River. Enjoy spectacular views from high sand bluffs overlooking the river and the natural flora and fauna of the area. The monuments and interpretive sites along with this road pay tribute to the early uses of the AuSable River by Indians and French explorers and the importance of lumbering and logging in the area’s earlier days.
Canoe Memorial Scenic Overlook
Also known as Eagles’ Nest Overlook, the Canoe Memorial Scenic Overlook is located a mile and a half west of Lumbermen’s Monument on the River Road National Scenic Byway. The white stone monument for which the site is named is located 200 feet above the AuSable River; it features a lone paddler surveying the scene. It was erected in memory of a young man who lost his life while participating in a canoe race. In the past, bald eagles built a nest at this site and were visible from this vantage point.
Kiwanis Monument
Located about a quarter of a mile south of Lumbermen’s Monument on Monument Road, this 15-foot tall stone monument sits amidst great stands of Norway Pines. It was constructed in 1931 in honor of Kiwanis Clubs of Michigan who donated 7,000,000 seedlings planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The pyramid is composed of stones from all over the state carved with the names of clubs and individuals who contributed to the reforestation project. Today the forest they planted covers nearly 10,000 acres.
Foote Pond Overlook
Located on River Road National Scenic Byway, between Lumbermen’s Monument and Oscoda.