- Riverside Glamping
The best river, stream, or creek glamping sites near Houghton Lake
100% (407) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Houghton Lake
C & A Adventure
1. C & A Adventure
100%
(27)
24mi from Houghton Lake · 3 sites
Chad and I are long-time residents of Kalkaska County.
We are also avid kayakers, runners, and overall nature enthusiasts.
We are blessed with an amazing property on the North Branch of the Manistee River!
It isn't the main branch of the Manistee River, BUT it flows right into it and offers so much more privacy, quietness, and peacefulness.
With the 8 acres, it's perfect for glamping camping!
The amazing bath house is furnished with a roomy shower, toilet and sink. It also contains a kitchenette with a large sink, microwave, small refrigerator and breakfast table. Plug in your cell phones as well to recharge for the next day’s adventure! Coffee, spices, popcorn and breakfast treats may also be available :)
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$108
/ night
Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
2. Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
100%
(98)
37mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site
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. On a small tributary to the Pine River, that turns into a canoe/kayak/trout stream a couple miles downstream.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
3. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
99%
(148)
38mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites
This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property.
No discharge of firearms is allowed on this 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. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest.
We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$65
/ night
Air & Sun Acres
4. Air & Sun Acres
100%
(29)
42mi from Houghton Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Tucked back in the woods of North Western Michigan. A turn down a two-track driveway takes you into a simpler world. Conveniently located, our cabins are rustic, beautiful, and timeless. Enjoy the solitude and peace not far from local amenities. We live here on the land and strive to share its beauty with you. Need some more room to spread out? Interested in hosting a retreat? We share our land and scenic walking trails with neighbors MorningStar Adventures. They offer additional cabins within walking distance for larger groups seeking connection with the land.
Learn more about this land:
As an Eco-spiritual retreat center, we encourage our guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Walk the trails or labyrinth on our 35 acres or those on the neighboring 90 acres. We share the opportunities to wander with our friends to the south for a seamless experience for our guest and theirs. A second larger labyrinth, medicine wheel and wailing wall are also on the property to the south. Overall 125 acres of woods, creek, gardens and places to wander await you. The Fred Meijer White Pine Linear State Park is only a few steps away an is a paved path way of over 90 miles stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Plan a bike excursion and stay here half way! No hunting or fireworks iallowed on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$29
/ night
Riverside Retreat
5. Riverside Retreat
100%
(10)
43mi from Houghton Lake · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
I'm excited to share with you my private, five-acre property, bordering 1030ft of the Chippewa River. Whether you are looking for a private site to pitch a tent along the river's edge, a semi-rustic cabin getaway, or a space to host a small group campout or retreat- this property can provide! With the riverfront comes access to swimming, fishing, kayaking and even a polar plunge- if you dare! Firewood is included FREE of charge with any booking.
The village of Barryton is minutes away and features pizza and ice cream shops should the craving for a treat strike. It's a short drive to multiple sports lakes that are known for excellent fishing. Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm is a short drive away as well.
If you are interested in renting the entire property for a group campout, retreat, family gathering, boy/girl scouts campout, men/women's weekend, or any other similar type event, send me a direct message to discuss.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Tree Huggers Haven
6. Tree Huggers Haven
100%
(7)
39mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site
Wilderness Lite, 38 acres of highland Maples and rustic river front Cedars. The property includes rolling terrain with walking trails.
Rustic camping in the comfort of a16’x10’ charming insulated Amish cabin with king size sleeping loft. Bring your rustic camping gear but leave the tent at home. Perhaps best of all you’ll be less than 2 miles from a gas station/ party store for your convenience.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
$80
/ night
Yurt Hunting
7. Yurt Hunting
42mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site
80 acres for hunting with 20 acres being open field. 12 blinds 2 stands with a Yurt. No water but have electricity. Ponds, streams and much more. Lots of activity caught on camera. We have 6 cameras throughout. Bucks are moving along with Does. If you love hunting or just want to clamp this property it for you.
Pets
Cooking equipment
from
$500
/ night
Torch Lake Stays
8. Torch Lake Stays
100%
(8)
46mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites
Welcome to the Torch Lake Stays, your private streamside hideaway in the north woods, where you can relax alongside the peaceful sounds of the soothing babbling brook. Our off-grid site includes camp stove, solar-powered lighting, fire pit, as well as a separate propane hot water shower house and a composting toilet. Good cell signal (Verizon and more)! Located halfway between Alden on beautiful Torch Lake and Bellaire, with many popular businesses such as Short's Brewing. Stay right in the middle of northwest Michigan where outdoor fun is year-round with summer water sports like the annual Antrim Paddle, autumn color tours, art gallery and winery trips, skiing and snowmobiling in winter, and wildflower / mushrooming, hiking and biking in the Springtime.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Dingle Dangle Acres
9. Dingle Dangle Acres
47mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Small 2-bedroom cabin on 36 acres, perfect for hiking and nature watching. The bedrooms have split king beds that can be configured as a king or two twins. Fully stocked kitchen. Close to the Rifle and Au Gres Rivers for canoeing, and Tawas State Park for access to Lake Huron.
Secondary heating is provided by a pellet stove, which is easy to use and adds lovely ambience. When renting the cabin, additional land is available for tent and RV camping. Cute and cozy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
100% (407) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Houghton Lake
C & A Adventure
1. C & A Adventure
100%
(27)
24mi from Houghton Lake · 3 sites
Chad and I are long-time residents of Kalkaska County.
We are also avid kayakers, runners, and overall nature enthusiasts.
We are blessed with an amazing property on the North Branch of the Manistee River!
It isn't the main branch of the Manistee River, BUT it flows right into it and offers so much more privacy, quietness, and peacefulness.
With the 8 acres, it's perfect for glamping camping!
The amazing bath house is furnished with a roomy shower, toilet and sink. It also contains a kitchenette with a large sink, microwave, small refrigerator and breakfast table. Plug in your cell phones as well to recharge for the next day’s adventure! Coffee, spices, popcorn and breakfast treats may also be available :)
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$108
/ night
Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
2. Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
100%
(98)
37mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site
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. On a small tributary to the Pine River, that turns into a canoe/kayak/trout stream a couple miles downstream.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
3. The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
99%
(148)
38mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites
This property was once part of an 80 acre farm. It has now grown into a mature forest with deer, turkey, squirrels, chipmunks, many types of songbirds and most recently a family of sandhill cranes. Our most recent improvement is an air conditioner in the Crow's Nest. Sheila grew up just across the road and spent many hours riding her horse and writing poetry on the property.
No discharge of firearms is allowed on this 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. Guests can explore many antique shops as well as Pinconna and Northwoods Outlet store. Many of our campers never leave the property but choose to relax and watch the life of the forest.
We provide linens, towels, and cookware. There is a grill outside and a microwave and oven inside along with a coffee maker and mini fridge.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$65
/ night
Air & Sun Acres
4. Air & Sun Acres
100%
(29)
42mi from Houghton Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Tucked back in the woods of North Western Michigan. A turn down a two-track driveway takes you into a simpler world. Conveniently located, our cabins are rustic, beautiful, and timeless. Enjoy the solitude and peace not far from local amenities. We live here on the land and strive to share its beauty with you. Need some more room to spread out? Interested in hosting a retreat? We share our land and scenic walking trails with neighbors MorningStar Adventures. They offer additional cabins within walking distance for larger groups seeking connection with the land.
Learn more about this land:
As an Eco-spiritual retreat center, we encourage our guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Walk the trails or labyrinth on our 35 acres or those on the neighboring 90 acres. We share the opportunities to wander with our friends to the south for a seamless experience for our guest and theirs. A second larger labyrinth, medicine wheel and wailing wall are also on the property to the south. Overall 125 acres of woods, creek, gardens and places to wander await you. The Fred Meijer White Pine Linear State Park is only a few steps away an is a paved path way of over 90 miles stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Plan a bike excursion and stay here half way! No hunting or fireworks iallowed on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$29
/ night
Riverside Retreat
5. Riverside Retreat
100%
(10)
43mi from Houghton Lake · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
I'm excited to share with you my private, five-acre property, bordering 1030ft of the Chippewa River. Whether you are looking for a private site to pitch a tent along the river's edge, a semi-rustic cabin getaway, or a space to host a small group campout or retreat- this property can provide! With the riverfront comes access to swimming, fishing, kayaking and even a polar plunge- if you dare! Firewood is included FREE of charge with any booking.
The village of Barryton is minutes away and features pizza and ice cream shops should the craving for a treat strike. It's a short drive to multiple sports lakes that are known for excellent fishing. Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm is a short drive away as well.
If you are interested in renting the entire property for a group campout, retreat, family gathering, boy/girl scouts campout, men/women's weekend, or any other similar type event, send me a direct message to discuss.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Tree Huggers Haven
6. Tree Huggers Haven
100%
(7)
39mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site
Wilderness Lite, 38 acres of highland Maples and rustic river front Cedars. The property includes rolling terrain with walking trails.
Rustic camping in the comfort of a16’x10’ charming insulated Amish cabin with king size sleeping loft. Bring your rustic camping gear but leave the tent at home. Perhaps best of all you’ll be less than 2 miles from a gas station/ party store for your convenience.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
$80
/ night
Yurt Hunting
7. Yurt Hunting
42mi from Houghton Lake · 1 site
80 acres for hunting with 20 acres being open field. 12 blinds 2 stands with a Yurt. No water but have electricity. Ponds, streams and much more. Lots of activity caught on camera. We have 6 cameras throughout. Bucks are moving along with Does. If you love hunting or just want to clamp this property it for you.
Pets
Cooking equipment
from
$500
/ night
Torch Lake Stays
8. Torch Lake Stays
100%
(8)
46mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites
Welcome to the Torch Lake Stays, your private streamside hideaway in the north woods, where you can relax alongside the peaceful sounds of the soothing babbling brook. Our off-grid site includes camp stove, solar-powered lighting, fire pit, as well as a separate propane hot water shower house and a composting toilet. Good cell signal (Verizon and more)! Located halfway between Alden on beautiful Torch Lake and Bellaire, with many popular businesses such as Short's Brewing. Stay right in the middle of northwest Michigan where outdoor fun is year-round with summer water sports like the annual Antrim Paddle, autumn color tours, art gallery and winery trips, skiing and snowmobiling in winter, and wildflower / mushrooming, hiking and biking in the Springtime.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Dingle Dangle Acres
9. Dingle Dangle Acres
47mi from Houghton Lake · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Small 2-bedroom cabin on 36 acres, perfect for hiking and nature watching. The bedrooms have split king beds that can be configured as a king or two twins. Fully stocked kitchen. Close to the Rifle and Au Gres Rivers for canoeing, and Tawas State Park for access to Lake Huron.
Secondary heating is provided by a pellet stove, which is easy to use and adds lovely ambience. When renting the cabin, additional land is available for tent and RV camping. Cute and cozy!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Kent
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
The cabin at Ricks was perfect inside & out.
Everything you need for a beautiful secluded off grid experience. Excellent snow shoeing all over the property. He was very accommodating. Showed me around, helped get me acclimated & kept me stocked up with wood on the cold February nights. Will definitely be back.
See moreN
Nell
December 2025
With pets
This was my 2nd December trip up to Rick's cabin. It's a cozy little place that makes for a good escape from the city.
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K
Kevin
December 2025
With pets
Awesome cabin! Great property with lots of trails to explore, cozy cabin with very effective wood stove. Lots of privacy and a very quiet location, would stay again.
See moreJ
Joshua
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
Nice little cabin with a wood stove! Rick was a super friendly host and easy to work with. Made a great stopping point for our trip!
See more
S
Sara
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Air & Sun Acres
We had another great time relaxing at the cabin & walking around the forest paths! Can’t recommend Krista’s property enough!
See moreH
Heidi
October 2025
With pets
We loved camping at Rick’s! The cabin was well stocked with spices, flashlights, cozy and nice bedding. Rick resupied firewood for us and pointed out the trails to explore. The view from the cabin porch was beautiful with lots of colorful trees. The firepit was huge and we used the grates to cook over the fire. We’re coming back next summer!
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Oliver
October 2025
Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
The Crow's Nest is a relaxing and beautiful place to stay. This was our second visit. The cabin is simple yet had everything we needed. The hosts ensure that you get to experience everything - there is a private walking trail, fire material, an outdoor grill, and much more.
See moreC
Captain
October 2025
1 night at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
The Crow’s Nest is such a cute and wonderful getaway from the rest of the world. Beautiful wooded property, a lovely walking trail, and a personal fire ring. I was delighted when I arrived and my partner and I were both saddened when it was time to leave. I highly recommend the location. I will absolutely be returning!!
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jaime
October 2025
With pets
Rick's place was such a gift. There were so many signs of thoughtfulness and insight into his prepared mind. Not only was the cabin equipped w/ basics but he also offers extras such as raincoats, hammocks, and what not. The property is well cared for, he has beautifully growing plants on the front porch The outhouse was actually nice, well stocked, and it was clean! The cabin too, was very clean, cleanest tiny cabin in woods I've seen yet! I like how he designed and decorated the cabin, it felt much bigger than it was. The framed bear art was so enjoyable to look at, each time I'd find something I hadn't before. It was like a mix between a Hieronymus Bosch piece and a teddy bears picnic! I highly recommend, he's a really nice easy going guy, pleasant to communicate with.
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B
Bree
October 2025
With pets
The view and bubbling of the brook in the backyard was charming to say the least. In mid-Oct. the wood stove kept us comfortably warm. The furnished kitchen, updated fridge, running cold water sink, and stovetop made meal time smooth. We appreciated the convenience of having home cooked meals made easily. For fairly avid hikers, we LOVED the trails around the property. We hiked for about 2 hours in our short trip and the dirt morning star path was great. Easy elevation changes, superb views of the colorful fall leaves, few and far between encounters with other hikers, and serene nature as far as the eye can see. Accessing the cabin with our SUV was easy despite a 2 track back. Cell service was decent. WiFi was a little slow and low signal but worked. Lots of blankets, lamps, and warmth to make a cozy retreat. Since we were hoping to have a relaxing weekend with minimal screen time, this was just what we needed. The full bed upstairs was comfortable, not too squeaky, and is nicely placed by windows to oversee the brook. We have a young dog that was able to manage the ladder/small steps up to the loft; however, I’d be very cautious if I had a senior dog. We brought a runner lead for our dog in the back yard which was a great way to keep him leashed with a little freedom to roam. Will happily go back (either to this cabin or try another on the acres). Host was thoughtful, eager to help, and communicative. Friendly and welcoming overall.
See moreA
Alan
October 2025
2 nights at Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
Budget friendly Paradise,if you like secluded lodging and free firewood?
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S
Shannon
October 2025
With pets
Rick's cabin is great and the surrounding land is beautiful and peaceful. This was my 2nd stay at Rick's and I look forward to next year!
See moreB
Brooke
October 2025
Weekend Trip to The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
Sheila and Jeff were friendly hosts and quick to lend a helping hand. The land was beautiful and relaxing; the cabin, super cozy. I’m already looking forward to staying again!
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Mj
October 2025
3 nights at Ricky’s Pine River hunt/camp
Wonderful little place! It was perfect! My dog enjoyed some much needed play time off leash. Everything about it was great! We will be back!
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R
Rae
October 2025
2 nights at The Crow’s Nest Forest Camp
Being nestled in the trees was a cherished respite for us on our Spirit Walk. Sheila and Jeff were on the property to welcome us on arrival which was really nice. Their sweet cat supervised as we settled in. We were visited by chipmunks, squirrels, crows, and deer during our stay.
Nice rustic cabin with a warm shower, comfy bed, and composting toilet plus nice kitchen amenities, walking trails, and fire pit.
Charming!
See moreA
Anna
September 2025
With pets
Had another great stay at Rick's cabin! Beautiful woods this time of year. Our dog loves playing with Jack. We all had a nice stay, thank you again!
See more
S
Sydney
September 2025
1 night at Tree Huggers Haven
The Tree Hugger site was perfect for our trip! Todd was a phenomenal host and gave us very clear instructions. The cabin was very cozy and comfortable. The property was gorgeous and so quiet. It was the perfect place to get away for a little while. We’ll definitely be back!
See moreG
Gage
September 2025
Group trip
It was such a a beautiful place it had beautiful paths and lovely scenery. Sheila and Jeff are so nice I'm happy to have been able to come to there home. Me and my boyfriend had a wonderful time. It's the perfect spot to get away from the city. The next time I go I will definitely be staying longer.
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K
Keith
September 2025
With pets
A piece of paradise. The host is very good and of course, his four-legged companion Jax is a big help
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M
Mikayla
September 2025
With pets
My husband and I had an amazing time. We were welcomed by the hosts who showed us around and had recommendations of restaurants and things to do in the area! They were constantly checking in, making sure we had a great time. The place was clean, quiet, and cozy. It is a great experience for those who enjoy camping but want a cozy bed to sleep in at night. The hosts also made sure we had fire wood each day and cleaned the outhouse every day. Would highly recommend this prosperity, we will be back!
See more
