Discover the best forest campgrounds near Houghton Lake, Michigan

United States
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Michigan
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Houghton Lake

91% (894 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Houghton Lake

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

100%

(42)

Barney Lake Vista

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

Once the location of a ski resort, this property was bought up by the competition and dismantled. Sitting on top of the old ski hill, this 10 acre property now offers a beautiful view of Barney Lake and the surrounding state forest. This property is situated near a dirt road that leads directly into hundreds of miles of off-road trails and state forest, yet is close enough to town (7 miles) to enjoy the local establishments. No access to the lake is available from the site, but there are plenty of other lakes and rivers in the area to enjoy!

Boondock Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gladwin, MI

Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private. Beautiful river view and access. Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.

Sunset pond view lot 21

1 site · RV10 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

Bought land around 2008 when Neighbor offered it to me.Learn more about this land:Site is east of my home off private rd. It’s quite peaceful area with pond near site and working on other improvements. This site can only be rented 30 days or more at a time.

100%

(15)

The Lost Oaks Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Harrison, MI

Welcome to our family owned campground conveniently located in Harrison, MI just off 127. We offer 10 electric & 30 rustic sites. Dump station & water fill up available. Close to ATV trails & 20 lakes within 20 minutes.Learn more about this land: Welcome to our family owned campground conveniently located in Harrison, MI just off 127. We offer 10 electric & 30 rustic sites. We have beautiful wooded sites perfect for RV's, motorhomes, Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel and tent camping. Dump station & water fill up available. Close to ORV trails and minutes from the Leota ORV Trailhead & 20 lakes within 20 minutes.

Sunshine Pond View

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

12 top forest campgrounds near Houghton Lake

96%

(12)

Sunshine Pond View

2 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

Barney Lake Vista

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

Once the location of a ski resort, this property was bought up by the competition and dismantled. Sitting on top of the old ski hill, this 10 acre property now offers a beautiful view of Barney Lake and the surrounding state forest. This property is situated near a dirt road that leads directly into hundreds of miles of off-road trails and state forest, yet is close enough to town (7 miles) to enjoy the local establishments. No access to the lake is available from the site, but there are plenty of other lakes and rivers in the area to enjoy!

Boondock Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gladwin, MI

Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private. Beautiful river view and access. Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.

Sunset pond view lot 21

1 site · RV10 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

Bought land around 2008 when Neighbor offered it to me.Learn more about this land:Site is east of my home off private rd. It’s quite peaceful area with pond near site and working on other improvements. This site can only be rented 30 days or more at a time.

The Wood Ranch Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Roscommon, MI

Have fun with the whole family and friends at the stylish Wood Ranch Cabin! Just a 3 minute walk to Higgins Lake at Maplehurst Dock. Cozy yet small bedrooms with closet space. A 30 foot boat, RV or camper can easily fit in the backyard along with a truck, trailer and a car. The remodeled cabin is quaint with a chef's kitchen. There's room for 5 guests to sleep comfortably and offers nice amenities throughout. The space is calming, chic and well thought out to ensure guests have an enjoyable stay. The cabin is located just 3 minutes walking distance to Higgins Lake at Maplehurst Dock. Guests have access to the entire cabin and exterior property. Crystal-clear, Higgins Lake has been noted as one of the world's most beautiful lakes. As the seasons change, there is still much to do; from hitting the greens at Forest Dunes Golf Club, fishing, kayaking, boating, cross country skiing, ATV and four wheeling to enjoying delightful meals at the Cut River Grille, Fred's or the Silver Dollar Pub & Grill.

The Lost Oaks Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Harrison, MI

Welcome to our family owned campground conveniently located in Harrison, MI just off 127. We offer 10 electric & 30 rustic sites. Dump station & water fill up available. Close to ATV trails & 20 lakes within 20 minutes.Learn more about this land: Welcome to our family owned campground conveniently located in Harrison, MI just off 127. We offer 10 electric & 30 rustic sites. We have beautiful wooded sites perfect for RV's, motorhomes, Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel and tent camping. Dump station & water fill up available. Close to ORV trails and minutes from the Leota ORV Trailhead & 20 lakes within 20 minutes.

99%

(52)

RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

1 site · RV, Tent23 acres · Grayling, MI

Remote private tract in northern Michigan with Portage Creek to camp at, right up close. No neighbors, no other campers! 10 miles from Grayling so you can run into town for needed supplies with little time or effort. Bring your kayaks and swimsuit for a quick splash. The creek is mostly shallow with some deeper spots. There are downed trees so the kids can kayak without going too far away but they can go out of line of sight and hearing, so please be watchful. The last ½ mile road in can be very sandy in spots or sometimes flooded so you are encouraged to call or enquire prior to arrival, 4WD recommended for towing an RV. We recommend your first arrival during daylight hours so you can see the entrance of the property. The non-maintained county road, the last ½ mile in is typically not passable during winter and snow seasons except by snowshoe or snowmobile due to the snow level. Never leave children or pets unattended! Be aware of the chance encounter with an endangered massasauga rattler, it may be endangered but it is still poisonous and they have been seen on and around the property before. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave your small contained fire unattended at the firepit and watch for sparks, completely douse the fire before you leave as this is a fire-prone area. No fires outside the firepit for safety reasons and fire hazards. If you want firewood here in Grayling, there are a few places that sell it. There is down debris in our woods but as the summer goes by, it may be picked through. You can pull and circle through the open area with your RV, or you can tuck into the RV / camping spot. There is enough room for 5 or 6 cars but campers may crowd that a bit. If you are tent camping, you are welcome to set up elsewhere on the property. There are trails throughout the property and you may see the ‘No Trespassing’ signs all along the perimeter of the 23.7 acres. The toilet is now working again, but we ask that you not overtaxed it ;p . The small cabin is fairly stocked with pots and pans, good for campfire cooking. Picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate on site for your use. There are tons of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities and water bodies very close by, or you can spend your time on this private tract. The military board land and small arms range is just past the road to the west, you may hear small arms practice at times, the sound of freedom.

The Hermitage

5 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Prudenville, MI

The Hermitage (aka Naljor Gompa) is a private meditation/wellness retreat also offering adults-only cannabis-friendly camping. Naljor Gompa is overseen by Lama Lawapa Naljor, a well-known Tibetan Buddhist yogi and teacher. We are located at the edge of Roscommon State Forest in Prudenville, Michigan, just 6 miles south of historic Houghton Lake, the premier tourist town of northern Michigan for water and winter sports. Hike over a mile of trails on the property. We are located 1/2 mile from the major ORV trailheads and just 3 miles from major hiking trails.

99%

(102)

The Crow’s Nest

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Beaverton, MI

This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels,chipmunks and many types of songbirds. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay.

100%

(13)

Stars Above

1 site · RV1 acre · Lake, MI

Sandy Shores Resort campground has 330 campsites, each campsite is privately owned. Lot 183, Stars Above is approximately 4,000 square feet, has a level concrete slab, full hookups, 50-amp service, a private beach, full bathhouse, open stand of pines in your backyard, playground, sandy beach, nature trail and a water view of Loon Landing. Both 5.0 and 2.4 Wi-Fi included with rental. $50 per night, Memorial Day through Labor Day. $40 per night April 19 through May 23 - September 2 through October 13, 2024. Off season camping is available (no water or internet). Contact host for details. Two week rentals maximum during off season. Great opportunity for hunters and winter sports enthusiasts. Snow removal is not provided. Lake George is 2 1/2 miles away. Within a 20-mile radius there are over 20 lakes.

83%

(3)

Whispering Pines Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake, MI

A quiet get away or a spot where everyone in the family can find something fun to do. The campsite is beautifully treed with pines where wildlife abounds. Situated close to the well-maintained beach, playground, putt-putt course, basketball court, and bath house. Feel like walking? Check out the eagle's nest where a pair of bald eagles are currently raising a pair of eaglets. While you're there, check out the nesting loons. A beautiful central Michigan location that has something for everyone! Please note that this is a campsite in a campground - the lot size is not 1 acre, that was the smallest size I could enter on this website :-).

89%

(14)

Ground-Groovy, Edible

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Harrison, MI

Interestingly ,the properties history is a previous location of a locally owned and operated Strawberry Farm, once known as SHARPS .STRAWBERRY’s While the Strawberry fields are no longer apart of the Harrison community, The Sharp Family and the original Sharp Market, still, very much, are. apart of the town. The Current property owner, is a Life-Long Harrison resident, that purchased the rundown and overgrown property a few years ago, with the intent, in the very near future, to build his home, on the NorthEast Corner of Grant and Stockwell Rd. During this transition period, of the land, a beautifully, organic meadow, of brilliantly bright wildflowers, invaded the space. Which now offers majestic views, of the rising and setting sun, to a days start to end. The Rays of sunlight, cast across, the vast distances of flower tops, wavering in the summer breezes and thunderstorms. creating the perfect opportunity in bringing forth, to the people of Harrison and it’s visitors A HIP HEALING GARGEN and HeALING GRoUNDS of the botanical sorts. The Herbal Healing Garden is focused on growing all edible flower plants that can be grown in Michigan, to extract the oils of the plants , used for Medicinal, Culinary and Aroma Therapies and Healing Remedies. The Grounds, offer, Ancient Healing Practices such as Reiki, Shamanic Drumming, Journeys, Singing Sound Bowls. A chance to bring a community back TO-GATHER again :)Learn more about this land:Herbal Garden and Healing Grounds Garden: = Lavender, Sage, Mints, Eucalyptus, Bamboo, Michigan Herbs, Sunflowers…….for Oil extracts culinary, medicinal and aroma therapy, purposes Grounds= Yoga, Meditation Reiki, Reflexology,Accupuncture , Barefoot Sand Therapy, Singing-Sound Bowls…..drumming journeys, spiritual awakenings

Star Hosts in Houghton Lake

100%

(42)

Barney Lake Vista

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Houghton Lake, MI

Once the location of a ski resort, this property was bought up by the competition and dismantled. Sitting on top of the old ski hill, this 10 acre property now offers a beautiful view of Barney Lake and the surrounding state forest. This property is situated near a dirt road that leads directly into hundreds of miles of off-road trails and state forest, yet is close enough to town (7 miles) to enjoy the local establishments. No access to the lake is available from the site, but there are plenty of other lakes and rivers in the area to enjoy!

Boondock Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Gladwin, MI

Learn more about this land:The spot Is on the riverbank and private. Beautiful river view and access. Short foot trail down to the river where there is a dock providing access to river and a artesian well that has been tested for purity Perfect to tie up a float and watch the wildlife.

RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

1 site · RV, Tent23 acres · Grayling, MI

Remote private tract in northern Michigan with Portage Creek to camp at, right up close. No neighbors, no other campers! 10 miles from Grayling so you can run into town for needed supplies with little time or effort. Bring your kayaks and swimsuit for a quick splash. The creek is mostly shallow with some deeper spots. There are downed trees so the kids can kayak without going too far away but they can go out of line of sight and hearing, so please be watchful. The last ½ mile road in can be very sandy in spots or sometimes flooded so you are encouraged to call or enquire prior to arrival, 4WD recommended for towing an RV. We recommend your first arrival during daylight hours so you can see the entrance of the property. The non-maintained county road, the last ½ mile in is typically not passable during winter and snow seasons except by snowshoe or snowmobile due to the snow level. Never leave children or pets unattended! Be aware of the chance encounter with an endangered massasauga rattler, it may be endangered but it is still poisonous and they have been seen on and around the property before. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave your small contained fire unattended at the firepit and watch for sparks, completely douse the fire before you leave as this is a fire-prone area. No fires outside the firepit for safety reasons and fire hazards. If you want firewood here in Grayling, there are a few places that sell it. There is down debris in our woods but as the summer goes by, it may be picked through. You can pull and circle through the open area with your RV, or you can tuck into the RV / camping spot. There is enough room for 5 or 6 cars but campers may crowd that a bit. If you are tent camping, you are welcome to set up elsewhere on the property. There are trails throughout the property and you may see the ‘No Trespassing’ signs all along the perimeter of the 23.7 acres. The toilet is now working again, but we ask that you not overtaxed it ;p . The small cabin is fairly stocked with pots and pans, good for campfire cooking. Picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate on site for your use. There are tons of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities and water bodies very close by, or you can spend your time on this private tract. The military board land and small arms range is just past the road to the west, you may hear small arms practice at times, the sound of freedom.

The Crow’s Nest

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Beaverton, MI

This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels,chipmunks and many types of songbirds. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay.

Stars Above

1 site · RV1 acre · Lake, MI

Sandy Shores Resort campground has 330 campsites, each campsite is privately owned. Lot 183, Stars Above is approximately 4,000 square feet, has a level concrete slab, full hookups, 50-amp service, a private beach, full bathhouse, open stand of pines in your backyard, playground, sandy beach, nature trail and a water view of Loon Landing. Both 5.0 and 2.4 Wi-Fi included with rental. $50 per night, Memorial Day through Labor Day. $40 per night April 19 through May 23 - September 2 through October 13, 2024. Off season camping is available (no water or internet). Contact host for details. Two week rentals maximum during off season. Great opportunity for hunters and winter sports enthusiasts. Snow removal is not provided. Lake George is 2 1/2 miles away. Within a 20-mile radius there are over 20 lakes.

Available this weekend

99%

(102)

The Crow’s Nest

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Beaverton, MI

This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels,chipmunks and many types of songbirds. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property. As a retired artist, we love to entertain creative peaceful people and many think of our place as a quiet sanctuary that encourages creativity. We provide games, both outdoor and indoor, a screen house, hammock, nature trails and a new camp store with local items and snacks. There is an Amish community close by and a tour map is provided. We are also close to the largest canopy walk in the US at Whiting Forest and Dow Gardens. Only 25 minutes away. There is a small water park in the closest town with a beach. Locally there is tubing and canoeing at the Cedar River in Gladwin and kayaking at Pinconning Park on Saginaw Bay.

99%

(48)

Bear Paw

4 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · West Branch, MI

Learn more about this land: There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish. You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early! Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water. Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well. Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking. There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising. Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property. Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon! Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used. We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details. Look for an amazing treehouse this spring!!!

98%

(81)

Camp Stonewood Ranch

5 sites · Tents40 acres · Fife Lake, MI

Originally Stonewood was a working farm, supporting a family a hundred years ago. Eventually, there was a Christmas Tree Farm on the property, then it was sold off and used for a hunting camp. That was when the little stone cabin was completely refurbished and a beautiful log addition was added. There are still remnants of the original barns and silo out in the pasture. Today it is a permanent residence again, with the intent of sharing the land and the animals with folks who need the therapy of the peace and quiet along with the animals. If you choose to come for a stay, you will be helping to support a program that will benefit our veterans and first responders.

100%

(4)

Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Wedgewood, MI

Hardwood and conifer upland forest w old growth white pine. Rolling terrain with lowland conifer w beaver ponds and wetlands. Trails for hiking or atv riding. Adjacent to hundreds of acres of roadless state forest pretty much inaccessible to most public. Small tributary to the Pine River a canoe/kayak/trout stream.

RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

1 site · RV, Tent23 acres · Grayling, MI

Remote private tract in northern Michigan with Portage Creek to camp at, right up close. No neighbors, no other campers! 10 miles from Grayling so you can run into town for needed supplies with little time or effort. Bring your kayaks and swimsuit for a quick splash. The creek is mostly shallow with some deeper spots. There are downed trees so the kids can kayak without going too far away but they can go out of line of sight and hearing, so please be watchful. The last ½ mile road in can be very sandy in spots or sometimes flooded so you are encouraged to call or enquire prior to arrival, 4WD recommended for towing an RV. We recommend your first arrival during daylight hours so you can see the entrance of the property. The non-maintained county road, the last ½ mile in is typically not passable during winter and snow seasons except by snowshoe or snowmobile due to the snow level. Never leave children or pets unattended! Be aware of the chance encounter with an endangered massasauga rattler, it may be endangered but it is still poisonous and they have been seen on and around the property before. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave your small contained fire unattended at the firepit and watch for sparks, completely douse the fire before you leave as this is a fire-prone area. No fires outside the firepit for safety reasons and fire hazards. If you want firewood here in Grayling, there are a few places that sell it. There is down debris in our woods but as the summer goes by, it may be picked through. You can pull and circle through the open area with your RV, or you can tuck into the RV / camping spot. There is enough room for 5 or 6 cars but campers may crowd that a bit. If you are tent camping, you are welcome to set up elsewhere on the property. There are trails throughout the property and you may see the ‘No Trespassing’ signs all along the perimeter of the 23.7 acres. The toilet is now working again, but we ask that you not overtaxed it ;p . The small cabin is fairly stocked with pots and pans, good for campfire cooking. Picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate on site for your use. There are tons of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities and water bodies very close by, or you can spend your time on this private tract. The military board land and small arms range is just past the road to the west, you may hear small arms practice at times, the sound of freedom.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(1)

Hartwick Pines State Park

Grayling, Michigan

81%

(26)

Huron-Manistee National Forests

South Higgins Lake State Park

Roscommon, Michigan

Otsego Lake State Park

Gaylord, Michigan

North Higgins Lake State Park

Roscommon, Michigan

Forest camping near Houghton Lake guide

Overview

Looking to get away and immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1193 options near Houghton Lake, Michigan, you'll find the perfect forest camping experience. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, we've got you covered. Check out our top campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and House of Bear (179 reviews) for unbeatable experiences. With popular amenities like campfires, toilets, and potable water, and activities like paddling, historic sites, and wind sports, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping trip. Plus, with an average price per night of $35 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of the forest near Houghton Lake, Michigan!