Lake Camping Near Houghton, Michigan, US: 20 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking to camp near Houghton, Michigan and indulge in some lake activities? You're in luck! We have over 150 options specifically tailored to your preference for lakeside camping. Whether you're looking for a cozy lakeside cabin, a secluded campsite with lake views, or a rustic lakeside retreat, we've got you covered. Our top campsites in the area include Heritage Hills (161 reviews), Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog (101 reviews), and Superior Times Resort (100 reviews). With amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, toilets, and cooking equipment, and activities like wildlife watching, whitewater paddling, and paddling, you'll have everything you need for an amazing camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $55 and options as low as $20, you'll find something to fit your budget. So get ready to enjoy the beauty of the lake and make some unforgettable memories!

98% (625) • 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Houghton

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking to camp near Houghton, Michigan and indulge in some lake activities? You're in luck! We have over 150 options specifically tailored to your preference for lakeside camping. Whether you're looking for a cozy lakeside cabin, a secluded campsite with lake views, or a rustic lakeside retreat, we've got you covered. Our top campsites in the area include Heritage Hills (161 reviews), Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog (101 reviews), and Superior Times Resort (100 reviews). With amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, toilets, and cooking equipment, and activities like wildlife watching, whitewater paddling, and paddling, you'll have everything you need for an amazing camping experience. Plus, with an average price per night of $55 and options as low as $20, you'll find something to fit your budget. So get ready to enjoy the beauty of the lake and make some unforgettable memories!

98% (625) • 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Houghton

1. Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

98%

(89)

24mi from Houghton · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land:Camp only feet from the lake. Go kayaking boating fishing hiking . Restaurant/ bar grill only 1 Mile away. Porta potty for tent campers. Launch your small boat or canoe right from the site. Many scenic sites nearby. 

2. EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

99%

(221)

30mi from Houghton · 1 site · Lodging

"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.

3. Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

98%

(192)

50mi from Houghton · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

Your host property is 13 acres between the Yellow Dog River, and Bear Lake, with frontage on both. The Yellow Dog River is a legendary trout stream, and many artists have found that the river satisfies their need for the wild. There are two cabin sites available, One overlooking Bear Lake with sunset views, and the other a cabin that was moved to the property in 1999 to preserve it. Both sites share amenities such as the outhouse, communal fire pit and water, but the cabins are not in close proximity so everyone has their privacy. They are both rustic cabins having no running water, or electricity. A futon with mattress cover is provided in each cabin along with a table and chairs. See the individual site descriptions for more details. We are 20 miles (app) north of Marquette, which is my home town.  It is a destination for bikers, skiiers, and outdoor rec folk!  There are so many things to see and do in Marquette, so make sure to plan enough time to check out the town!  Also, just six miles to our north is historic Big Bay.  A lumber town back in the day, it is full of history.  Check out the Thunder Bay Inn, where parts of Anatomy of a Murder, starring Jimmy Stewart and Lee Remick were filmed.  Don't miss going to the Lumberjack to see where the actual murder took place, either!  You will find good eats and perhaps even some live music at either establishment. You'll also find everything you need in the way of groceries, and gas at Cram's General Store, where there's also a laundromat.  Burns landing just north of the marina has the historic Burns family home renovated in a park setting, and a public beach access to mighty Lake Superior.  This park has picnic tables and grills, and even a handicap accessible outhouse and trail to the lake. Yellow Dog falls is a short drive on Co. Road 510, and on the way be sure to climb Thomas Rock overlook.  There are new bike trails if you're into that as well!   Stay awhile.  You'll be glad you did! We strive to offer peace and serenity to our guests, and love to share these woods with those needing tranquility and respite from a busy world. In this sensitive environmental area, we have only two sites to keep traffic down, enhance our visitors experience, and to protect the wildlife here. Unplug with us, eh!

4. McLain State Park

100%

(2)

104 sites · Hancock, Michigan

Discover McLain State Park's scenic vistas and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Twin Lakes State Park

60 sites · South Range, Michigan

Discover Twin Lakes State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

6. Beach Camp

100%

(94)

45mi from Houghton · 1 site · Tent, RV

This little slice of heaven is owned by Doug and April Berg. Located on a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Superior. West of Ontonagon, MI, located on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This premium Lake Superior waterfront property has 200 feet of sandy shoreline, a flat grassy lot and marsh framed by large pine, cedar and birch trees for privacy from neighbor cabins and breathtaking beach sunsets! Beach comb, build a driftwood fire, or hang your hammock and watch the waves on this majestic lake. Miles of shoreline to walk or snowshoe in the winter. Great base camp for all the adventure the UP has to offer! Close to the Porcupine Mountains, ski resorts, and cross country, snowshoe, mountain bike and snowmobile trails.

7. Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

95%

(89)

42mi from Houghton · 3 sites · Tents

Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.

8. Gentle Breeze Camping

98%

(101)

24mi from Houghton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a dark sky private campground on Sandy Lake. Very quiet, private dock, sandy beach, great for fishing, kayaking or just relaxing. ATV's by approval, there will be no loud ATV's, no running ATV's other then entry and exit, if there are complaints from other campers you will be asked to leave New this year is a sauna with shower, this is an electric sauna , use will be by donation. Sauna is not part of base fee, additional cost for sauna Learn more about this land: Open fields and woods with lake access.   There is a private dock with swimming, great for kayaking There is a near by public fishing site, 3 miles from General store from  other lakes nearby with public access as well. We look forward to hosting you! We are located in Twin Lakes Michigan , 2.3miles south of M-26 on 29839  Pike Lake Road Very private setting There is no electricity on site  Campers responsible for garbage removal  There is now a outhouse toilet on site Enjoy the relief! There is a limit of 2 dogs per site, Dogs to be on leash if not friendly to people or other dogs IN PREVIOUS YEARS I OFFERED A FREE SITE IF YOU BOOKED 2 SITES THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE

9. Little Trailer on Big Lake

100%

(10)

34mi from Houghton · 1 site · Lodging

Cozy vintage trailer located on an inland lake in the Heart of Upper Michigan. Excellent location for outdoor enthusiasts who love to explore waterfalls, fish, and hike. Those who want a homebase with a little extra comfort. Located within a few miles of the Baraga Plains ORV trail and North Country Trails. Trailer has one bedroom with a queen size bed. There is a twin rollaway bed and couch for additional sleeping space. Water is available for bathing and dishes. Please bring your own drinking water. Bathroom has a flushable toilet and shower. Kitchen has stove, toaster oven, refrigerator, and freezer. Coffee maker is also available. There is a picnic table, fire pit, and outdoor seating. Firewood may be used if on site. We offer a camping experience with a few extra amenities. Hipcamp is the perfect fit for our property. We would consider requests for camper or tents on site as well. Please feel free to reach out to us with questions.

10. Baraga State Park

117 sites · Baraga, Michigan

Discover Baraga State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Ottawa National Forest

90%

(10)

367 sites · Watersmeet, Michigan

Everyday is the best day ever at Ottowa National Forest, a great place for seasoned adventurers and families alike. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness will please advance kayakers and canoers, while those with little ones can head to Lake Ottawa Recreation area for forested trails, picnicking spots and a swimming beach. Spy everything from wildflowers to black bears on the trails, and have that camera ready incase you see somethin' good. And in the cooler months? Leaf peeping and snowshoeing will make you glad you came to Ottawa when the crowds die down post summer. There’s something special about this place, experience Ottawa firsthand and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Craig Lake State Park

21 sites · Michigamme, Michigan

Discover the rugged beauty of Craig Lake State Park.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

13. Fort Wilkins State Park

83%

(3)

160 sites · Copper Harbor, Michigan

Discover Fort Wilkins State Park's historic charm and natural beauty.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

14. Premium Keweenaw Beach RV Site

100%

(6)

16mi from Houghton · 1 site · RV

NOTE: The site is closed for the season. I will open up booking for the 2026 season around March 2026. Contact me if there are any special requests for 2026 that may require you to lock in a certain date in 2026. This site has a private level aggregate 50 foot RV pad overlooking Lake Superior with 50/30 amp service, well water and septic hookups. This site is best for Class A, B or C RV's. Towables will work, but you will need to back in for access to your tow vehicle and your door will open away from the lake. No tents allowed. With respect for our good neighbors, no parties or loud music allowed. This site is for quietly relaxing with your family and friends and enjoying the big lake views. The site has 100 feet of private sandy beach and great swimming (sandy shallow bottom out 100 feet). Included is a wood fired Sauna to help with the lakes colder water. Also included is a 16x20 deck overlooking the lake, 2 picnic tables, deck chairs, gas grill, charcoal grill, beach chairs and 2 fire rings (Firewood is available to purchase onsite or can be purchased at several places on the way in). A separate flushable toilet enclosure is available and can be used if desired. A canoe, 2 kayaks and paddles are provided for you to use at your own risk (Some lifejackets are in the deck box). The premium site will support a 40 foot vehicle but require you to disconnect a towable at an angle for access to your vehicle. There is an additional RV parking spot with full hookups that may be available. Contact the host to confirm availability since I sometimes park my boat trailer there. The additional site will support a 30 foot vehicle again requiring you to disconnect at an angle for access to your tow vehicle (30 amps only from this additional site via a provided extension cord). A large Class A or C will require you to have good backup skills to get out and a spotter to watch for obstacles and clearance on the way in and out, but it is easily done. Plenty of blocks are provided for additional clearance if needed. ATT has good cell service here and Verizon is OK but marginal at times.

15. City of Houghton RV Park

1.1mi from Houghton · 11 sites

Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Portage Waterway, Houghton RV Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. With 25 well-maintained sites, this campground is conveniently situated next to the Ray Kestner Waterfront Park, providing easy access to a four-mile paved, non-motorized waterfront trail that meanders through Houghton and beyond. For those seeking adventure, a gravel trail along a former railroad grade extends for many more miles, perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Just east of the park, the city pier features transient slips for boaters, making it easy to explore the waterway. The Ray Kestner Waterfront Park is a hub of activity, boasting a sandy beach for swimming, a pavilion, picnic tables, fishing piers, a boat launch, and the exciting Chutes and Ladders play area. Throughout the summer, the park hosts popular events such as Bridgefest in June, Brewfest in late August, and weekly music concerts, ensuring there's always something happening. Additionally, Portage Paddle Sports, located at the park entrance, offers bike, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, along with delicious ice cream and concessions from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Historic Downtown Houghton is just a half-mile stroll along the well-lit

16. Van Riper State Park

190 sites · Michigamme, Michigan

Discover Van Riper State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

C

Connor

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gentle Breeze Camping

The shower was amazing as it was around 30° with windchill! Waking up near the lake is a bonus, you can catch a good sunrise and sunset here. This is my second time here and I am sure not the last.

B

Benjamin

October 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

We had a fantastic stay here! The cabin was awesome- nice and cozy, while having good space. The land was amazing- a beautiful river & lake nearby. The host was fantastic as well, and it was lovely learning about the surrounding area from her!

Dustey

October 2025

2 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

Gorgeous, cool and super secluded. We loved staying here and started planning our next trip before we even left.

E

Elisa

October 2025

14 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Beach Camp

This was one of our favorite camp spots! Perfect location for exploring the Porcupine Mountains and also taking walks along the beach. There are so many special touches provided - kayaks, canoe, hammock, firepit, chairs, picnic table and a flush toilet! We loved it here.

C

Christian

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Gentle Breeze Camping

Thank you Michael for a beautiful view of Sandy Lake!! The only thing I would change with our stay would be to update the toilet situation via install a toilet with water that’s plumbed into a drain field etc. The sauna was cool :) 🐻

Arah

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

My partner, dogs and I loved tent camping on Pat’s land! The lake (bay) was so close, and it was so quiet and private there. It was well worth the extra time to get there!

Kate

October 2025

2 nights at Little Trailer on Big Lake

Really nice property, beautiful lake with all sorts of amenities for camping

A

Angie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Beach Camp

We had a wonderful time at Beach Camp! We were in a tent, so loved the flushing toilet! The road is close, but we found the convenience of it well worth any noise we may have heard. There is a full tree line between the camping area and it, so you can’t see the cars, only occasionally hear them when at the campsite - never by the beach. The beach area is to die for. So close to camp and just a haven.

G

GraceAnne

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Gentle Breeze Camping

Amazing!!! Beautiful, remote, and relaxing. The Sauna is such an AMAZING addition! I personally love the spot closest to the lake:)

A

Allison

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Beach Camp

This is the most beautiful and serene location along Lake Superior! There are kayaks, bikes, and corn hole available for use, but it’s also a great place to sit and relax on the beach and enjoy the lake. The bathroom was very clean and water pump convenient. Doug and April provided a lot of great information prior to my arrival to be sure I was comfortable and had everything I needed. I would recommend this camp site in a heartbeat!

Tim

October 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Beach Camp

Really enjoyed the beach camp spot. Somewhat private and very nice beach with great options to hang out and enjoy the space.

S

Sally

October 2025

21 ft campervan

2 nights at Beach Camp

We really loved our 2nd trip to Beach Camp! Thank you for sharing this lovely private site. Appreciate the flush toilet, the clean water from the spigot, but mostly those wonderful waves! Thank you so much!

K

Kevin

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Premium Keweenaw Beach RV Site

Location, location, location. A beautiful beachfront camp feels like Cape Cod or Maine, very unique and special for the U.P.. Visited some beaches around the world & this really is just as special, everyday the lake looked different, very scenic by itself. Never stayed somewhere this close to the water. Perfect sandy beach and amazing views. Also the property has everything, from a sauna on the beach, to a couple great fire pits, and deck overlooking everything. Most importantly, it has electric, water, and a toilet/bathroom. Makes the place perfect with truly everything you need for RV camping so you don’t have to think of anything. The sauna made it special, going from Lake Superiors slightly chillier waters into the sauna a back again is a perfect cherry on top. Definitely worth checking out, the best HipCamp I’ve been to so far.

J

Jolene

September 2025

25 ft Class A

Group trip

8 nights at Beach Camp

Beautiful camp site! Loved staying here and would stay again. Thank you for sharing this little slice of UP paradise.

E

Erica

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Gentle Breeze Camping

We had a perfect day! We hiked Silver Mountain and found the best macaroons at The Red Hen before arriving at the camp site. It is a beautiful setting. Shade trees and a peaceful lake. Still my favorite part of our stay was the sauna.

Kevin

September 2025

38 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

Stunning site! A bit of a challenge for our 38’ class C….but managed. Unparalleled views and very private. Road down a bit angled. All in all a must see! Hope to come back for a longer visit! Dogs happy on the beach!

Karlee

September 2025

15 ft Class C

4 nights at Gentle Breeze Camping

Such a beautiful place! Very peaceful and secluded. It was so quiet and I loved the sauna and shower! Very relaxing!

Jordan

September 2025

32 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

We've stayed here 3 times and will be back next year!

E

Evelyn

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Wooded Camping on the Lake

This is beautiful place. Your surrounded by trees on 3 sides minus where you pull in. In front of you is the bay. The fire pit has one high side and 3 low sides, which was nice for cooking. There is a picnic table, shovel, rake and ax and a clothes line left to use. There was also enough wood left for 2 or3 fires. Unfortunately it rained as we got there so alot of it was wet. They leave a hose with a sprayer by the entrance on a tree limb for water use. He did also supply the wifi password. You can walk out a good distance in the water before it drops off. Yes, you can hear some traffic from the main rd. But its more of background noise. The sunrise is not "in your face" nor is the sunset, it goes down behind some mts. But the bay is in the west side

S

Sam

September 2025

17 ft pop-up camper

With pets

5 nights at Beach Camp

You couldn't ask for anything more from this camping spot. Sandy beach, shallow water perfect for swimming, crashing waves to lull you to sleep... And the amenities make it so easy to use. Between the electric hookup, the water hookup, and the flush toilet, you really have everything you need whether you're in a pop-up camper like we were, or a tent, or even a big rig.