Cities and Towns in Oscoda County, Michigan
Founded in 1840, Oscoda County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Oscoda County was formed from part of Mackinac County and unorganized territory. The city of Mio is the county seat. With FIPS code of 135, Oscoda County has a population of 8,311 and area of 572 square miles (1,481 km²).
List of all cities in Oscoda County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Comins, MI | 48619 | 989 |
| Fairview, MI | 48621 | 989 |
| Luzerne, MI | 48636 | 989 |
| Mio, MI | 48647 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Oscoda County, Michigan
Mio
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 7.15 square miles
- Population: 1,792 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48647
- Latitude: 44.6528° N
- Longitude: 84.1314° W
City Location and History
Mio is the county seat of Oscoda County, located in the heart of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along the Au Sable River. Founded in 1881, Mio was originally a lumber town, attracting settlers due to the vast forests surrounding the area. It was named after the wife of a local businessman, though some local lore suggests it was chosen simply because the name was short and easy to pronounce. After the decline of the lumber industry, Mio shifted toward tourism and outdoor recreation. Today, the community serves as a gateway to the Huron National Forest and is popular for activities like hunting, fishing, and canoeing along the scenic Au Sable River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mio-Au Sable Schools serve the area, with Mio High School being the main educational institution. The town’s proximity to the Au Sable River makes the river one of its most prominent landmarks, drawing visitors for canoeing, fishing, and birdwatching. The Mio Dam, located just outside of town, is a key feature of the river and offers scenic views. Mio is also known for its access to the Huron National Forest, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Each fall, the community hosts the annual Kirtland’s Warbler Festival, celebrating the endangered songbird species that nests in the nearby Jack Pine forests, adding to Mio’s appeal as a destination for nature enthusiasts.
Lewiston
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: 1,392 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 49756
- Latitude: 44.8836° N
- Longitude: 84.3056° W
City Location and History
Lewiston is a small unincorporated community that straddles the border of Oscoda and Montmorency counties. Established in the late 1800s, Lewiston was initially a logging town named after Lewis Ernst, one of its early founders. Like many towns in Northern Michigan, it grew quickly during the logging boom but had to reinvent itself as the timber industry declined. Today, Lewiston is known for its beautiful lakes, including East and West Twin Lakes, which attract tourists for boating, fishing, and seasonal activities. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it a popular destination for both permanent residents and vacationers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Although Lewiston is unincorporated, it shares schools with nearby Johannesburg in Otsego County. The Johannesburg-Lewiston Area Schools district serves students in the area, with Johannesburg-Lewiston High School being the primary institution. Major landmarks include the Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, a premier golfing destination, and East Twin Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent fishing. Lewiston’s annual Timberfest celebrates the community’s logging history with parades, contests, and entertainment for all ages. The area’s proximity to the Au Sable River and state forests further enhances its reputation as a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, snowmobiling, and hunting.
Fairview
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 900 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 48621
- Latitude: 44.7297° N
- Longitude: 84.0519° W
City Location and History
Fairview is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Oscoda County. Founded in the late 19th century, Fairview began as a lumber town, much like its neighboring communities. Its name reflects the scenic views of the surrounding countryside, which include rolling hills, forests, and rivers. While the lumber industry eventually declined, Fairview survived by transitioning into a farming community and, later, a destination for outdoor recreation. Its location along the border of the Huron National Forest makes it an excellent base for exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fairview Area Schools provide education for local students, with Fairview High School serving as the main institution. The community is well-known for its outdoor attractions, with proximity to both the Au Sable River and the Huron National Forest. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, hunting, and camping in the surrounding forests. Fairview’s annual Snowmobile Poker Run is a popular winter event, drawing visitors from around Michigan. The town is also located near the scenic M-33 highway, which offers beautiful drives through the forested landscape, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Comins
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 400 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 48619
- Latitude: 44.7933° N
- Longitude: 84.0128° W
City Location and History
Comins is a small unincorporated community in the northern part of Oscoda County. It was established during Michigan’s logging boom in the late 1800s and grew as a result of the lumber industry, which thrived thanks to the abundance of timber in the surrounding Huron National Forest. As with many Northern Michigan towns, Comins saw a decline after the depletion of the local forests but continued to exist as a rural farming and recreational community. Its location near the Au Sable River and several lakes makes it a great spot for outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Comins students typically attend Fairview Area Schools or other nearby districts. The community’s main attractions are its natural surroundings, which include several lakes, streams, and access to the Au Sable River. Hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling are popular activities in the area, with state forests providing ample space for outdoor recreation. The nearby Turtle Lake Campground is a well-known local spot for camping and fishing. Each year, Comins hosts small community events that celebrate its rural heritage and close-knit nature, contributing to the village’s peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.
Luzerne
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 200 (including surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 48636
- Latitude: 44.5753° N
- Longitude: 84.2983° W
City Location and History
Luzerne is a small, unincorporated community in southwestern Oscoda County, located near the Au Sable River and the boundary of the Huron National Forest. Like many towns in the region, Luzerne was founded as a logging settlement in the late 19th century and named after Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, where some of its early settlers hailed from. The village thrived during Michigan’s logging boom, but as timber resources were depleted, Luzerne transitioned into a quiet community known for its outdoor recreation opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Luzerne residents typically attend schools in nearby communities like Mio or Fairview. The community’s main landmarks are its natural features, particularly the Au Sable River, which offers excellent canoeing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. Luzerne is also known for its snowmobile and ORV trails, which attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The Luzerne Trail Camp is a popular spot for campers and hikers looking to explore the Huron National Forest. Each year, Luzerne hosts a local festival that celebrates its rural charm and outdoor lifestyle, bringing together residents and visitors for a weekend of fun and community spirit.