Camping in Houghton Lake, MI, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Michigan
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Houghton Lake

93% (994 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Houghton Lake

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Traverse City State Park

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

453 campgrounds

Huron-Manistee National Forests

486 campgrounds

Available this weekend

99%

(54)

Beautiful Lake View Camping

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Lupton, MI

Perryn's Cabin is a rustic cabin sitting on a wooded lot on Green Lake offering a quiet getaway. The cabin is equipped with solar ceiling lights and one 12v USB plug. Enjoy fishing, kayaking or boating (electric motors only) right out your front door or on many of the local lakes. Cook dinner on the grill, over the firepit or enjoy one of wonderful local restaurants. The trailhead for the Huron-Manistee National forest is a mile down the road offering great riding for ORVs and Snowmobiles. Rifle River Recreation Area, located right around the corner has a swimming beach, and numerous hiking and biking trails. It's a short drive to the east to Tawas and Lake Huron or to the north to Mio, where canoeing and tubing on the Ausable River is available. Happy camping!

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.

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.

100%

(19)

CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

1 site · Lodging120 acres · Roscommon, MI

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.

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

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(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

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!!!

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.

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!

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(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.

89%

(14)

Ground-Groovy, Edible

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Harrison, MI

Interestingly ,the properties history is a previous location of a locally owned and operated Strawberry Farm, once known as SHARPS .STRAWBERRY’s While the Strawberry fields are no longer apart of the Harrison community, The Sharp Family and the original Sharp Market, still, very much, are. apart of the town. The Current property owner, is a Life-Long Harrison resident, that purchased the rundown and overgrown property a few years ago, with the intent, in the very near future, to build his home, on the NorthEast Corner of Grant and Stockwell Rd. During this transition period, of the land, a beautifully, organic meadow, of brilliantly bright wildflowers, invaded the space. Which now offers majestic views, of the rising and setting sun, to a days start to end. The Rays of sunlight, cast across, the vast distances of flower tops, wavering in the summer breezes and thunderstorms. creating the perfect opportunity in bringing forth, to the people of Harrison and it’s visitors A HIP HEALING GARGEN and HeALING GRoUNDS of the botanical sorts. The Herbal Healing Garden is focused on growing all edible flower plants that can be grown in Michigan, to extract the oils of the plants , used for Medicinal, Culinary and Aroma Therapies and Healing Remedies. The Grounds, offer, Ancient Healing Practices such as Reiki, Shamanic Drumming, Journeys, Singing Sound Bowls. A chance to bring a community back TO-GATHER again :)Learn more about this land:Herbal Garden and Healing Grounds Garden: = Lavender, Sage, Mints, Eucalyptus, Bamboo, Michigan Herbs, Sunflowers…….for Oil extracts culinary, medicinal and aroma therapy, purposes Grounds= Yoga, Meditation Reiki, Reflexology,Accupuncture , Barefoot Sand Therapy, Singing-Sound Bowls…..drumming journeys, spiritual awakenings

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(108)

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.

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.

83%

(3)

Whispering Pines Retreat

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lake, MI

A quiet get away or a spot where everyone in the family can find something fun to do. The campsite is beautifully treed with pines where wildlife abounds. Situated close to the well-maintained beach, playground, putt-putt course, basketball court, and bath house. Feel like walking? Check out the eagle's nest where a pair of bald eagles are currently raising a pair of eaglets. While you're there, check out the nesting loons. A beautiful central Michigan location that has something for everyone! Please note that this is a campsite in a campground - the lot size is not 1 acre, that was the smallest size I could enter on this website :-).

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Sweet Nectar in the Woods Campground

5 sites · Lodging12 acres · Harrison, MI

Our rustic campground has six camping cabins available in twelve heavily wooded acres. Our community is known for 20 lakes in 20 minutes! We have lots of acres of state land locally for adventures also. This is a private campground available for single campers or groups. Come enjoy nature at its finest!Learn more about this land:Rustic camping cabins nestled in the woods. Bring your friends and family and take all five cabins or come alone and experience our campground. Enjoy a camping experience with basic accommodations, port a john’s & an outdoor shower. We live on site and will be happy to help if you need anything.

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(7)

Dan's Acre’s

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Lake City, MI

Remote 40 acre's, rolling wooded property. Only three camp sites and walking trails. Close to Cadillac and Lake City, numerous surrounding lakes. Very peaceful and quite. Close to crooked lake, lake Missaukee Lake Cadillac, Lake Mitchell. Also only 10 minutes from shopping and downtown. Also near state land.

Star Hosts in Houghton Lake

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(7)

Dan's Acre’s

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Lake City, MI

Remote 40 acre's, rolling wooded property. Only three camp sites and walking trails. Close to Cadillac and Lake City, numerous surrounding lakes. Very peaceful and quite. Close to crooked lake, lake Missaukee Lake Cadillac, Lake Mitchell. Also only 10 minutes from shopping and downtown. Also near state land.

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!!!

CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE

1 site · Lodging120 acres · Roscommon, MI

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.

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!

Dog-friendly getaways

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!!!

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

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.

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!

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 guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Houghton Lake, Michigan? Hipcamp has over 725 options for you to choose from, with prices starting as low as $12 per night. For those looking to enjoy the great outdoors, we've got you covered. Check out our top campsites with rave reviews: Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), House of Bear (179 reviews), and Camp 437 in the Sturgeon Valley (100 reviews). Whether you're into off-roading, swimming, or surfing, you'll find the perfect spot with all the amenities you need, like campfires, potable water, and pet-friendly spaces. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!