The best family-friendly campgrounds near Houghton Lake, Michigan

At Hipcamp, we offer a wide range of camping options near Houghton Lake, Michigan. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campsite, a cozy cabin, or a spacious RV spot, we've got you covered. With over 180 available options, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation that suits your needs. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $35 per night. Looking for recommendations? Check out our top campsites with rave reviews: Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp (97 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly spaces, and showers. Get ready to explore the great outdoors and indulge in activities such as snow sports, off-roading (OHV), and paddling. Book your camping adventure with us today!

99% (519) • 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Houghton Lake

At Hipcamp, we offer a wide range of camping options near Houghton Lake, Michigan. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campsite, a cozy cabin, or a spacious RV spot, we've got you covered. With over 180 available options, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation that suits your needs. Prices start as low as $20 per night, with an average price of $35 per night. Looking for recommendations? Check out our top campsites with rave reviews: Camp Moonshadow (246 reviews), Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), and Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp (97 reviews). Plus, enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly spaces, and showers. Get ready to explore the great outdoors and indulge in activities such as snow sports, off-roading (OHV), and paddling. Book your camping adventure with us today!

99% (519) • 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Houghton Lake

1. Camp Bear Paw LLC

99%

(87)

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

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. Doriath Springs

99%

(154)

45mi from Houghton Lake · 6 sites · Tents

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.

3. "Elysium Heritage Farm"

100%

(156)

46mi from Houghton Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

"Elysium Heritage Farm" is situated on 120 acres in Northeast, MI surrounded by woods, trails, ponds and canals. Enjoy access to a small farm that includes fainting goats, chickens, emu, rabbits, and more. Bring your pole and try your luck at some catch and release fishing. Enjoy viewing numerous types of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. Depending on the season, (and how quietly you walk the trails) you may experience a wide variety of wildlife species. Although we don't allow motorized ATVs, you are welcome to bring a golf cart. Most of the trails are improved enough to allow you access. Absolutely NO hunting allowed on the property. The property is located just (5) miles off I-75 so it's also a convenient mid-trip destination for those on a longer distance excursion. In case you plan on fishing the local hotspots on Lake Huron (15 minutes away) and are trailering a boat, there is plenty of area to park your rig during your stay. It's only a ten-minute drive to Pinconning, where you can experience Michigan's "Cheese Town" and all it has to offer. There's a grocery store, numerous cheese shops, and a variety of party stores and restaurants. For the outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out on going to the ever-famous "Northwoods Wholesale Outlet". Also nearby is the "Saganing Eagles Landing Casino" in Standish. We have resided here for over 30 years and can assist you in many ways to get the most out of your visit. By the way, the definition of the word "Elysium" is "Place of perfect bliss" and yes, we labeled it that long before the movie with Matt Damon was created.

4. CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

99%

(45)

10mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Lodging

Learn more about this land:This cozy off-grid rustic Cut River Cabin has a Sauna 3 bedrooms and a loft that will sleep 10. 120 acres with over 1.3 miles of private riverfront on the pristine Cut River that flows out of beautiful Higgins Lake Michigan. Approximately 10 minutes/7 miles from the beaches of South Higgins Lake State Park, or the Village of Roscommon which has a full-service supermarket (Family Fare) hardware and outdoor supply stores, and a handful of restaurants. It's a great spot for a quiet retreat away from people, traffic, pollution, and the stresses of modern digital life with the closest neighbor being over 2 miles away. Enjoy the river, paddling in our canoes, fishing, and swimming. Get out in the woods by hiking or biking through nearly 2,000 acres of public state land and trails surrounding the property. Included are SNOWSHOES in the winter and CANOES in the summer The Cut River Cabin is a completely off-the-grid property that relies on solar power. Inside you will find NO TV’s, NO WiFi, and NO Modern Luxury Amenities. 😁 You WILL find solar power to charge any devices that you just can’t live without for a weekend getaway, 😉 Manual operated water well pump (Pitcher Pump), Wood Burning Stove to keep warm on them chilly nights (starter/logs included), Well-equipped kitchen with stove Due to its simple and rustic features, the cabin is most appealing to hikers, campers, and people who love the outdoors and don't mind the lack of conventional amenities. A few things included to distract you from the busy world outside are many Books, Board Games, Playing Cards.

5. Sherman City Acres

98%

(107)

44mi from Houghton Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a family that love being outdoors and exploring along the river. And our farm has so many beautiful locations along the Chippewa River to relax and get a fresh perspective on life or just enjoy a cookout with our friends. And we are looking to share our love of the outdoors with others by making it accessible as campsites where people can make new memories and get a literal breath of fresh air :)

6. River Daze

100%

(48)

33mi from Houghton Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Campsites are all riverfront along the Tobacco River. Country feel within blocks of town. Ross Lake/Beach, the remodeled Beaverton Tavern, park, an ice cream shop and splash park are all located within a long walk or short drive. We are close to Gladwin, Ross Lake, ORV trails and the Juicy Bone. The river flows into Wixom Lake which is anticipated to be back in 2025. Sandy beach with river access . You can access the river from our canoe portage on the property. Good fishing, swimming or just hanging out. You can also canoe, kayak or tube beautiful Tobacco River or sandy Cedar River. Picnic tables and fire pits are located throughout the property. Good music, games, sing a longs. Hike through the trails to get to the the enchanted cedar forest which is all located in the campground. We have an outdoor 250 inch screen where we project movies, concerts, games, interactive dance videos. For kids and adults, everyone leaves with a smile.

7. RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

98%

(78)

25mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Steve

December 2025

Group trip

3 nights at CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

Beautiful location. Stayed warm in the cabin even with single digit temperatures and a wood stove for heat.

D

Dan

December 2025

Group trip

3 nights at CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

The Cut River Cabin was great. Very rustic. No wifi or TV was a plus. Plenty of firewood to keep us warm on some single digit nights. Beautiful view of the river. Thanks Jeremey!

H

Hailey

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

We had such a wonderful time at Elysium. Kim was so welcoming and helpful, the place had such a cute setup. Got to see so many stars that night, truly felt magical! The farm animals were a definite plus!! Would come through again

K

Kristian

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Perfect for a getaway. Really nice place if you intend to stay in camp. Highly recommend.

L

Lauren

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

I loved staying at Kim’s property! Thank you for your kindness.

A

Austin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Doriath Springs

Very scenic, easy to access and clean. Highly recommend

A

Alexis

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

Beautiful setting, and a well-equipped rustic cabin! Jeremey was incredibly helpful answering our questions ahead of the trip, and made sure everything was ready for our arrival. So peaceful and relaxing! Our husky Tala loved being able to explore. We loved the covered deck, the sauna, and being able to use the canoes on the crystal clear river. Can’t wait to visit again during different times of the year!

j

jacqueline

October 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Absolutely beautiful retreat! Private wooded camping site with adorable outhouse. We arrived around 7pm and Kim surprised us with our camp fire burning to welcome us. The next morning we wandered endless forest trails finding new areas to explore around every corner. Small ponds, wandering canals, covered bridge, adorable goat paddocks, friendly hens, comical emus, tiny beaches, etc. There is something for everyone but it was just perfect for what we needed. Thank you Kim & Jeff; we loved our stay.

The path from your camper or tent to the fire ring, picnic table, toilets, and swing.

A

Alex

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Great spot to camp. Host was very friendly and helpful. Purchased the add on wood and it was a good deal. Directions to find the camping spot were very clear. Site was as advertised.

s

steve

October 2025

35 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to River Daze

Nice simple campground close to Jeep trails,no problems at all,owner is very nice

L

Lynette

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Our second stay here didn’t disappoint. So relaxing and quiet. Love sitting next to the fire Listening to absolutely nothing but the rustling of the leaves. Taking walks visiting with the animals. We can’t wait to come back next year!

I

Isabel

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

We had the best time camping at Vine camp! The farm animals were so cute and the property is just stunning! My pup is not a fan of strangers and the campsite was super private and quiet! The owners are also very friendly and accommodating, and the outhouse was surprisingly clean! I will absolutely be staying here again!

M

Matthew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

Peaceful and quiet location yet close enough to stores and a few restaurants. Waking up and cooking breakfast with the little white goat and his friend the deer was nice.

T

Terra

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view

I loved tent camping on this property. The area is very nice and the tools in the shed came in very handy! The night sky and view during the day time was beautiful. There’s some trails on the property that made exploring so much fun! Thank you so much for letting us stay on your property.

T

Tiffany

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at Sherman City Acres

Beautiful space — relaxing and fun! It was nice to have seclusion! *dog friendly — but close to a road with fast moving traffic.

Erica

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at River Daze

We stayed at River Daze and had a nice, quiet getaway. The host was very friendly and helpful — he was waiting when we arrived, guided us to our spot, and even had the water and electric hookups ready to go. The property sits right on the Tobacco River, which would be great in the summer for kayaking, canoeing, or tubing. It was beautiful in the fall. There are a few walking trails, and it’s less than a half mile to town, which is super convenient. There is a porta-john close for convenience. It felt cozy and tucked-away. Overall, it was peaceful, clean, and the host clearly puts care into making guests comfortable.

T

Tracy

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at "Elysium Heritage Farm"

The farm is gorgeous — over 100 acres of peaceful, open land with amazing views of the stars and moon at night. I got to hang out with deer, goats, emus, cats, and dogs!! Kim, the host, is one of the most gracious and welcoming people you’ll ever meet. She really takes care of her guests and makes sure you have everything you need. Customer service? Chef’s kiss. It’s private, quiet, and just beautiful all around. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature and animals!!!! 5 stars!!

Brandon

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

I booked the farm camp for me and my then girlfriend, now fiancée for a weekend tent camping trip. It was our first camping trip together and the farm camp had plenty of amenities. The composting toilet was very clean, the covered picnic bench and fire grill was all we really needed for food, but there was a grill available for us it use as well. There were plenty of chairs too! The only thing missing was a shower but we used the BP gas station for showers. Only cost $5 per shower. There was tons of trails to walk down and if you love animals there were all sorts of critters to see. The pigeon cages are right next to the farm camp and you can hear them softly cooing from the camp if you listen carefully. There were a couple kittens, tons of chickens, some ginormous rabbits, and my favorites were the friendly goats! The campsite was extremely private. Those that are looking for a romantic getaway should strongly consider this place!

A

Addie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to "Elysium Heritage Farm"

This was a spectacular campsite - we booked a last-minute camping trip with friends and this little forest & farm were exactly what we needed. Woke up to farm fresh eggs, coffee over the fire and then did a little farm walk followed by mushroom foraging on the property (found some awesome species!). Kim was so helpful and welcoming, she even helped up hose off our muddy dog after a spill lol. She told us of some planned additions to the land that they’re working on and I’m very excited to come back and see the projects in full swing. Hipcamp never fails to lead us to awesome sites with interesting folks that are generous enough to share them with us - this is another one for the book!

My youngest dog loved running the beach...

M

Matthew

October 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at River Daze

Quiet, despite a nearby road/bridge, and situated on the Tobacco River, Riverdaze offered me a private retreat while visiting friends nearby. I stayed for 3 nights with two pups and enjoyed the hospitality of the host as well as the convenience of nearby activities and restaurants. The hosts are putting work into the property, with improvements, and I'll keep it in mind if in the area again. The sites are perfect for tenters, small trailers, or those interested in boondocking with fire rings and picnic tables provided. A new treehouse and available water activities are great for families and adventurists.