Discover the best campgrounds near Houghton Lake, Michigan with wildlife watching

United States
—
Michigan
—
Houghton Lake

91% (910 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Houghton Lake

Under $50

Star Hosts in Houghton Lake

98%

(107)

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.

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!

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%

(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.

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!!!

12 top campgrounds near Houghton Lake with wildlife watching

100%

(43)

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!

Sunshine Pond View

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

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.

Saved 1 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.

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.

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!!!

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.

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.

100%

(2)

Rustic Escapes

1 site · Tent20 acres · Saint Helen, MI

Currently only 1 site available. Enjoy a peaceful rustic site, away from the chaos of the city. Located in the northern lower peninsula, a beautiful secluded space tucked in the woods. Located near thousands of miles of riding trails for any outdoor enthusiast, dirt bikes, quads, SXS, and even horse back riding! If you enjoy fishing or swimming, we are centrally located between Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, Lake St Helen with public beaches and boat launches within a quick driving distance. Need something to eat? We have a bunch of great family owned restaurants in town only about 3 miles away!

100%

(18)

C & A Adventure

3 sites · Lodging8 acres · Bear Lake, MI

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 complete and was thoroughly enjoyed this past season by many glampers!

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.

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(43)

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!

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.

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.

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.

Sunshine Pond View

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

Available this weekend

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!!!

99%

(46)

Oak Ridge Farm

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Coleman, MI

Oak Ridge Farm is located on 80 acres in the Mid-Michigan area, halfway between Midland and Mt. Pleasant. We are in the process of creating a self-sustainable, homestead vegetable and fruit farm. Our property is quiet, and the moon and stars are amazing to see on a clear night. If you're looking for a quiet place to get away from it all, look no further! There is plenty to see and do right around our property. Lots of wildlife including; Sandhill Cranes, deer, turkeys, porcupines, geese, rabbits etc. We have a walking/hiking path that you can explore through our property as well as hundreds of acres of state land right next door! Campsites are situated around our beautiful pond where the sunrises cannot be beat. Kayaks and a row boat are available for our guests to explore the pond. The AuSable State Forest neighbors our property line and can be accessed from multiple different areas right near the property. There are many trails for horseback riding, dirt bikes, ATVs/UTVs, hiking and mountain biking. The Chippewa River is very close and many enjoy kayaking, canoeing or tubing this river. Only 18 mins away is the Pine Haven Recreation Area in Sanford. This park has 12 miles of hiking, cross country skiing and mountain biking trails. Horseback riding trails are also available at this park. Places to see and things to do: - Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort, Mt. Pleasant - Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant - Isabella County Farmers Market, Mt. Pleasant - Great Lakes Loons at Dow Diamond, Midland - Dow Gardens, Midland - Whiting Forest (Nation's Longest Canopy Walk), Midland -Midland Area Farmers Market Midland and Mt. Pleasant are each located about 20-25 mins from our property. Please note that campsites are rustic. Porta-john, hose connect water and shower house are available during seasonal times (May 1 to Oct 1). Campfire rings are located at each campsite and firewood is available to purchase. My family and I live full-time on our property. We have 3 young children and a sweet dog that loves people and other kids. On hot summer days we often join our campers at the pond to cool off! On weekends we love to work in our large garden, take care of our chickens, have a campfire, and play outside. We are so excited to host you this camping season and hope you enjoy your stay at Peaceful Pines on Oakridge Farm! Check out our Facebook page for more info on our property: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556605364913&mibextid=LQQJ4d

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.

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!

100%

(14)

"Elysium Heritage Farm"

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Pinconning, MI

"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, turkeys, 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. 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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(1)

Hartwick Pines State Park

Grayling, Michigan

81%

(26)

Huron-Manistee National Forests

Mio, Michigan

93%

(16)

Traverse City State Park

Traverse City, Michigan

South Higgins Lake State Park

Roscommon, Michigan

Otsego Lake State Park

Gaylord, Michigan

North Higgins Lake State Park

Roscommon, Michigan

Camping near Houghton Lake with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your one-stop destination for camping adventures in the United States! If you're a wildlife enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in nature near Houghton Lake, Michigan, you're in luck. With over 1,200 options specifically tailored to wildlife watching in this area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor getaway. From secluded spots to family-friendly campgrounds, 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 some inspiration. Our campsites offer popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and potable water, ensuring your comfort during your stay. And if you're looking to add some excitement to your camping trip, you can also enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, and wind sports. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife-watching experience in Houghton Lake, Michigan!