Beach Camping Near Houghton Lake, Michigan, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! Looking for the perfect beach getaway near Houghton Lake, Michigan? We've got you covered with over 140 options that cater to your beach-loving heart. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the water or a bustling campground with plenty of activities, we have something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Million $ Sunset Camp (88 reviews), and Hibernian Farm (75 reviews). With amenities like pet-friendly sites, showers, and toilets, and activities like horseback riding, paddling, and whitewater paddling, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable beach camping experience. And the best part? Our prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your beach camping trip today!

97% (238)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! Looking for the perfect beach getaway near Houghton Lake, Michigan? We've got you covered with over 140 options that cater to your beach-loving heart. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the water or a bustling campground with plenty of activities, we have something for everyone. Check out top-rated campsites like Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Million $ Sunset Camp (88 reviews), and Hibernian Farm (75 reviews). With amenities like pet-friendly sites, showers, and toilets, and activities like horseback riding, paddling, and whitewater paddling, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable beach camping experience. And the best part? Our prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $40 per night. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your beach camping trip today!

97% (238)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Camp Bear Paw LLC

99%

(87)

22mi from Houghton Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!!!

2. Sunshine Pond View lot 14

94%

(18)

3.6mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Houghton Lake, MI

3. Doriath Springs

99%

(154)

45mi from Houghton Lake · 6 sites · Tents · Hersey, MI

Doriath Springs is a family homestead committed to peace path revolution. Learn more about this land: Doriath Springs feels magical! Doriath Springs is a small 5+ acre family homestead dedicated to environmental sustainability and peace path revolution. Easy arrival by the Muskegon River, the Pere Marquette Bike Trail, or highway M-10. Space for tent camping along the river in the sun or by the creek in the forest. Rustic outhouse. Pets are welcome as long as they are kept leashed and supervised at all times. 1-4 minute walk from parking to sites. Please Leave No Trace: Leave the land, creek, and river as it is when you arrived as much as possible. Moving rocks, digging holes, and cutting live trees is not allowed because it disturbs the ecosystem that the bugs, fish, water fowl, birds of prey, and all the other critters rely on. You are responsible for taking all of your garbage with you when you check out.

4. Sunrise Lake Family Campground

34mi from Houghton Lake · 3 sites · Lodging · Leroy, MI

Welcome to Sunrise Lake Family Campground! Looking for the perfect balance between rugged camping and comfort? Sunrise Lake Family Campground, a charming retreat location, offers guests access to the beautiful 80-acre all-sports Sunrise Lake—perfect for paddling, fishing, or swimming. With tree coverage, a quiet setting, and modern bathhouses, the campground gives you the outdoor experience with all the convenience. Bring your ORV and ride the trails located just across the road, or simply kick back and enjoy a peaceful, quiet weekend by the fire. Whether you're adventuring on the trails or relaxing lakeside, we offer the perfect backdrop for a Pure Michigan summer memory!

5. Stars Above

100%

(26)

27mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · RV · Lake, MI

You will enjoy this 4,000 square foot campsite with plenty of space for all your activities. Grassy area with firepit is part of this campsite. Beautiful rock garden located in your campsite living area. You will enjoy the evening stars around your campfire. Give us a try and we are sure you will make this one of your favorite destinations. ### UNITS LONGER THAN 32 FEET, CONTACT HOST PRIOR TO BOOKING FOR APPROVAL ### WIFI, level spacious concrete pad, picnic table, fire pit, view of Loon Landing (pond) and great for star gazing. Grass Lake on property (private) with sandy beach, swimming raft, fishing docks on both Grass Lake and Loon Landing, playground, putt-putt golf, pickleball, volleyball court, horseshoes, full bathhouse, and plenty of trails and private roads for bicycling and walking. *** 20% DISCOUNT FOR STAYS 4 DAYS OR MORE *** This is a seasonal campsite available May to Mid October.

6. Wixom Lake On Anderson Dr.

100%

(3)

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Beaverton, MI

Discover the charm of this delightful lot situated on a canal of Wixom Lake. Boasting full hookups for your convenience, this location offers a cozy retreat, with the only exception being that water access is temporarily unavailable during the winter months. Positioned near ATV trails and a scenic hiking area, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. The convenience of being close to Midland, Michigan adds to the appeal, providing easy access to additional amenities and attractions. While the lake is anticipated to make a comeback in the next few years, in the meantime, this lot serves as an affordable and inviting camping spot for both RVs and tents. Experience the tranquility and simplicity of camping in this picturesque setting, where outdoor adventures and relaxation await. Should you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out. Your perfect camping getaway is just a question away! Please bring freshwater hose, sewer hose, and 30 or 50 amp cord for hookup.

7. Lake Side Cabin

100%

(5)

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

Arrowhead Lake Camp was an old Boy Scout Reservation. The 630 Acre campground holds multiple cabins, lodges, tent sites and event locations. The Lake is great for swimming, fishing and relaxing at the beach. All Cabins are close to the lake and fire pits are located near each cabin and tent site. Trails wrap around Arrowhead Lake which would be great for biking, hiking and nature watching. These are dry cabins with electric. Each comes with a microwave and a mini fridge. Bathrooms / Commercial Kitchen are located a short distance away in the main loge.

8. Bayside Base Camp

100%

(45)

49mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Tent · Williamsburg, MI

As avid travelers and Hipcamp users ourselves, Bayside Base Camp is our dream come true. Nestled into the back of our property in Northern Michigan it allows us to share everything we love about where we live with people who travel like we do. We live simply and adventure big. We hope you are able to explore all of the great things our area has to offer. Learn more about this land: Nestled along the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay, our Bayside Base Camp is the perfect spot to stay as you explore the wonders of Northern Michigan. We offer one tent site in the back of our property with access to our indoor toilet. Access to the bathroom requires two steps up to get into the house. Guests also have access to a fire pit, a large table to set up your camp stove or jet boil, as well as the ability to hang your own hammock among our trees. We are steps away from bay access for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and whatever other water hobbies you may have! There is access to two beautiful trails within a short walking distance from your camp. We are happy to provide directions as long as you promise to take care of them and leave no trace. The Northern Michigan community is incredibly active and values the Leave No Trace principles. In addition to the natural beauty within walking distance from your site, the area has countless trails, paths and parks to explore. We are happy to provide additional recommendations based on your interests through email or upon your arrival. Bayside Base Camp is located 15 minutes from Downtown Traverse City, a short 45 minute drive from Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, 50 minutes from Leland and 15 minutes from Old Mission Peninsula. Guests will be responsible for disposing of their trash items in the designated trash bin on site. There is one parking spot in our driveway and you will need to walk back to your tent site. There is a home within view of your site, but it is a seldomly used vacation home. The walk will take less than one minute to get back to your tent site from the driveway. We are beyond excited to share our property with you and welcome you to our little slice of paradise in Northern Michigan.

9. Rustic campsite

80%

(5)

39mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Beaverton, MI

Wooded lot available for rustic camping. Pitch a tent or bring your camper but be prepared for no water or electric. Shed, picnic table and fire pit. Dogs are welcome! You’re welcome to use the shed and any items inside. Unfortunately we are without water in our lake due to the dam failure and it will remain this way until approximately 2027. Please be respectful of neighbors.

10. Lake View Cabins

39mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

There are three Lake View Units. One has a full size bed and the other two each have two twin beds. These do not have plumbing, they do have electric with a microwave, mini fridge and portable air conditioner or heater. This building is located at the road level near the beach. A fire pit with chairs is located in front of the building overlooking our 90 acre private lake! The bathrooms, showers, laundry room and commercial kitchen are located at the main lodge which is a short distance away.

11. Large Wood View Cabins

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

We have 8 total Wood View Cabins and are located near the main lodge, sports field, hiking trail and fire pits are nearby. The beach and lake are both a short walk away. These dry cabins come with electrical, mini fridge, microwave & 2 queen size beds with full bedding along with a trundle bed. A large kitchen, laundry room, restrooms, and showers are located at the main lodge which is a short walk from these cabins.

12. Luxurious Lake House Lodge

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

The Lake House Lodge gives you a comfortable stay at Arrowhead Lake Camp. This cabin is located on the end of the main lodge which is close to all the main attractions. The patio has picnic tables and furniture with a beautiful view of our 90 acre private lake! Also included is a fire pit with chairs. Enjoy the lake with our kayaks, rowboats, peddle boats, paddle boards and a canoe with no additional fees! This cabin has one bedroom with a queen bed and a trundle bed. There is a pullout coach in the main living area. It also has a kitchen sink and a full bathroom.

13. Black Bear Lodge

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

The Black Bear Lodge is a large cabin that would be great for a larger group. This cabin has a large main living area and 2 bedrooms. This Cabin has a large, spacious deck which over looks Arrowhead Lake. Have fun with the whole family at this stylish place. This cabin comes with 1 large bed, 2 bunk beds and a pull out couch. Bathrooms and the commercial kitchen are located at the main lodge which is a short distance away.

Camper favorites near Houghton Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lake Side Cabin

100%

(5)

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

Arrowhead Lake Camp was an old Boy Scout Reservation. The 630 Acre campground holds multiple cabins, lodges, tent sites and event locations. The Lake is great for swimming, fishing and relaxing at the beach. All Cabins are close to the lake and fire pits are located near each cabin and tent site. Trails wrap around Arrowhead Lake which would be great for biking, hiking and nature watching. These are dry cabins with electric. Each comes with a microwave and a mini fridge. Bathrooms / Commercial Kitchen are located a short distance away in the main loge.

Bayside Base Camp

100%

(45)

49mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Tent · Williamsburg, MI

As avid travelers and Hipcamp users ourselves, Bayside Base Camp is our dream come true. Nestled into the back of our property in Northern Michigan it allows us to share everything we love about where we live with people who travel like we do. We live simply and adventure big. We hope you are able to explore all of the great things our area has to offer. Learn more about this land: Nestled along the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay, our Bayside Base Camp is the perfect spot to stay as you explore the wonders of Northern Michigan. We offer one tent site in the back of our property with access to our indoor toilet. Access to the bathroom requires two steps up to get into the house. Guests also have access to a fire pit, a large table to set up your camp stove or jet boil, as well as the ability to hang your own hammock among our trees. We are steps away from bay access for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and whatever other water hobbies you may have! There is access to two beautiful trails within a short walking distance from your camp. We are happy to provide directions as long as you promise to take care of them and leave no trace. The Northern Michigan community is incredibly active and values the Leave No Trace principles. In addition to the natural beauty within walking distance from your site, the area has countless trails, paths and parks to explore. We are happy to provide additional recommendations based on your interests through email or upon your arrival. Bayside Base Camp is located 15 minutes from Downtown Traverse City, a short 45 minute drive from Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, 50 minutes from Leland and 15 minutes from Old Mission Peninsula. Guests will be responsible for disposing of their trash items in the designated trash bin on site. There is one parking spot in our driveway and you will need to walk back to your tent site. There is a home within view of your site, but it is a seldomly used vacation home. The walk will take less than one minute to get back to your tent site from the driveway. We are beyond excited to share our property with you and welcome you to our little slice of paradise in Northern Michigan.

Rustic campsite

80%

(5)

39mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Beaverton, MI

Wooded lot available for rustic camping. Pitch a tent or bring your camper but be prepared for no water or electric. Shed, picnic table and fire pit. Dogs are welcome! You’re welcome to use the shed and any items inside. Unfortunately we are without water in our lake due to the dam failure and it will remain this way until approximately 2027. Please be respectful of neighbors.

Lake View Cabins

39mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

There are three Lake View Units. One has a full size bed and the other two each have two twin beds. These do not have plumbing, they do have electric with a microwave, mini fridge and portable air conditioner or heater. This building is located at the road level near the beach. A fire pit with chairs is located in front of the building overlooking our 90 acre private lake! The bathrooms, showers, laundry room and commercial kitchen are located at the main lodge which is a short distance away.

Large Wood View Cabins

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

We have 8 total Wood View Cabins and are located near the main lodge, sports field, hiking trail and fire pits are nearby. The beach and lake are both a short walk away. These dry cabins come with electrical, mini fridge, microwave & 2 queen size beds with full bedding along with a trundle bed. A large kitchen, laundry room, restrooms, and showers are located at the main lodge which is a short walk from these cabins.

Luxurious Lake House Lodge

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

The Lake House Lodge gives you a comfortable stay at Arrowhead Lake Camp. This cabin is located on the end of the main lodge which is close to all the main attractions. The patio has picnic tables and furniture with a beautiful view of our 90 acre private lake! Also included is a fire pit with chairs. Enjoy the lake with our kayaks, rowboats, peddle boats, paddle boards and a canoe with no additional fees! This cabin has one bedroom with a queen bed and a trundle bed. There is a pullout coach in the main living area. It also has a kitchen sink and a full bathroom.

Black Bear Lodge

38mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Lupton, MI

The Black Bear Lodge is a large cabin that would be great for a larger group. This cabin has a large main living area and 2 bedrooms. This Cabin has a large, spacious deck which over looks Arrowhead Lake. Have fun with the whole family at this stylish place. This cabin comes with 1 large bed, 2 bunk beds and a pull out couch. Bathrooms and the commercial kitchen are located at the main lodge which is a short distance away.

Public campgrounds near Houghton Lake

83%

(4)

South Higgins Lake Campground

8.8mi from Houghton Lake · 401 sites · Tents, RVs · in South Higgins Lake State Park

North Higgins Lake Campground

14mi from Houghton Lake · 176 sites · Tents, RVs · in North Higgins Lake State Park

Wilson Campground

20mi from Houghton Lake · 160 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wilson State Park

Kneff Lake Campground

24mi from Houghton Lake · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Wakeley Lake Area

26mi from Houghton Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Meadows ORV Campground

28mi from Houghton Lake · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Luzerne Horse Trail Campground and Trailhead

30mi from Houghton Lake · 11 sites · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Island Lake Campground

34mi from Houghton Lake · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Mitchell Campground

34mi from Houghton Lake · 223 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mitchell State Park

Wagner Lake Campground

35mi from Houghton Lake · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

100%

(1)

Hemlock Campground

37mi from Houghton Lake · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Mack Lake ORV Campground

39mi from Houghton Lake · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · in Huron-Manistee National Forests

Stories from the community

A

Austin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

Very scenic, easy to access and clean. Highly recommend

S

Selena

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Bear Paw LLC

Genuinely such an amazing experience at Camp Bear Paw!! Kevin and Lori are phenomenal hosts. It’s truly a hidden gem. There’s activities for kids all ages and adults. Anything you may have forgotten (chairs, ice, worms, fishing poles , cooking supplies , etc.) they have it all! I couldn’t have asked for a better experience or hosts. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a nice private get away. Thank you again Kevin and Lori. You made things so memorable 😄💕

Alexa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Bear Paw LLC

Fantastic property! Not only qere the hosts so kind and helpful they truly had every accommodating feature we needed. All the kids loved it and we hope to come back again!!

Emma

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

This place was amazing. So serene and relaxing. I would recommend this place to anyone!!

J

Jamison

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Camp Bear Paw LLC

Always the best time! Even as the kids get older, they still have so much to do and have so much fun!! Thank you again!

H

Haylee

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

This site is a slice of heaven on earth. We had the most comfortable camping conditions weather-wise, it was getting a bit chilly in September so we had the entire property to ourselves. So peaceful and healing. Site 2 and 3 are definitely show stoppers. The walk down to the campsite feels right out of a Disney woodland movie, complete with a ton of foliage, flowers, and a babbling creek that was a dream to listen to as you fall asleep at night. Sarah was awesome and super communicative and let us have free range of the sites during our stay since we were the only ones there. Being on the river was absolutely picturesque and we are already planning on coming back in the summer to enjoy the river more. Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your gorgeous property with us, we are so excited to come back with friends!

B

Bradley

September 2025

Tent

With pets

6 nights at Camp Bear Paw LLC

Kevin and Laurie are Top Notch. My and family and I have had the privilege of staying at Bear Paw 3 times. Our kids love to swim in the pond, fish, and explore the grounds. There plenty of playgrounds and for the kids to playWe enjoy sitting by the fire using the wood that’s provided. Kevin and Laurie not only keep the grounds well maintained but they genuinely care. They check on us periodically throughout the stay to see if we need anything. It’s clear to see that providing a memory-filled camping experience is what they strive for. We have camped at state parks and county parks as well, but Bear Paw rises to the top for us! Thank you!

C

Corydon

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

This is becoming a tradition for my 14-year-old daughter and I to camp together at site 3. We love the sound of the running water from the spring and the views are amazing. Sarah could not be a better host, we always feel welcome and hope to visit her property for years to come.

Facing Northwest with view of Pines and Oaks

M

Matt

August 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Stars Above

Brian and patty are great hosts. The site is perfect and well kept.

P

Patrick

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Bear Paw LLC

Such a fun filled family orientated place! They literally thought of everything to host people with a variety of ages!

A

Amanda

August 2025

2 nights at Camp Bear Paw LLC

Kevin and Lori are so kind and hospitable. They have thought of everything: from towels and extra blankets, to games, crafts, and even ice and worms for fishing, they had it all. There was truly something everyone enjoyed and the kids are already talking about next year.

My pics don't come close to doing this place justice, but this one with the mist had to be shared! Its from my 4th of July trip last year.

A

Angel

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

It's just the most beautiful place to go! It was my third trip and it won't be my last. Sarah is the best hostess and the place is absolutely beautiful. Definitely bring a wagon and some water shoes and you'll have the best time. I love Site #1 and keep coming back to it. The others are gorgeous, too, but I love the spillway and the creek. It's so tucked away that you'd never believe there was camping down there. The river isn't super deep so it's great for wading and swimming. Plus, there are spots you could drop kayaks or tubes in up river and float back to Doriath. I brought an anchor and floated on rafts for hours right out front. I'm so grateful that Sarah shares this place with the world!

Bri

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

We loooooved our stay on site 3!! What a perfect spot for our family camping trip. Sarah was a wonderful host and was ready to come out to help me when my car died! Great spot, great communication- loved the land! We saw bald eagles flying the river, enjoyed the sounds of the springs while we slept, listened to all the other bird and animal noises and swam and kayaked up and down the river all day! Will be back 10/10. ☀️

L

August 2025

40 ft fifth wheel

10 nights at Stars Above

Absolutely beautiful spot right off the lake and by a nice lagoon. Lots of birdwatching and squirrels and rabbit watching. Beautiful flowers!. Good fishing. Nice concrete pad with tons of other amenities. We will definitely be back!

R

Rose

August 2025

23 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp Bear Paw LLC

We had another great stay at Bear Paw and have already booked again for next year for our family reunion. Kevin &Lori are awesome hosts and provide more activities than we can do! There is something for everyone! Their property is beautiful and we love having it all to ourselves.

H

Hal

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Doriath Springs

The property was absolutely BREATHTAKING. My family and I brought our husky and it was the perfect area to just relax, swim, and fish. Sarah even has a little fenced off section for your dogs! The campsites are a little close together if privacy is an issue for you. But we were lucky enough to have no other campers the first 2 nights! We had an incredible trip and would highly recommend this camp!

J

Juliet

July 2025

37 ft travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Stars Above

One of the most Beautiful Campsites ever! Even the Firewood was provided, as well as a picnic table and lounging chairs! 5 Stars!!!!

S

SHANNON

July 2025

25 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Sunshine Pond View lot 14

I was unable to make it due to a family situation but the host was very kind about it & communication was great. 👍

R

Rachel

July 2025

16 ft car

With kids

4 nights at Camp Bear Paw LLC

We come here every year and it just keeps getting better. Kevin and Lorie are wonderful!

N

Nancy

July 2025

35 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stars Above

Clean, grass kept cut, beautiful flowers to attract butterflies and humming birds. You Can walk dogs easily. They were very accommodating and friendly!