The best camping in South Higgins Lake State Park, MI
83% (4)
Discover South Higgins Lake State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
83% (4)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next South Higgins Lake State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in South Higgins Lake State Park
South Higgins Lake Campground
1. South Higgins Lake Campground
83%
(4)
Trailed by nearly a mile of shore-hugging trials, South Higgins Lake Modern Campground is equipped with fire pits and scenic runrises
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Top-rated campsites near South Higgins Lake State Park
CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE
1. CUT RIVER CABIN AT HIGGINS LAKE
99%
(57)
1.4mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site
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.
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Barney Lake Vista
2. Barney Lake Vista
99%
(113)
13mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
Please note: we do not have access to the lake from the property, but there are plenty of other lakes and rivers in the area to enjoy!
Houghton Lake is a very popular area for off-road/ATV’s, so it’s very likely you will hear quads, side-by-sides, and/or dirt bikes during your stay as they ride by on the public road.
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Rustic Escapes
3. Rustic Escapes
100%
(12)
15mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site
Currently only 1 site available. Enjoy a peaceful rustic site, away from the chaos of the city. The site comes with a 3 season tent situated on a level wooden platform, high/dry and nice and level! Has a picnic table and a firepit wih plenty of free firewood available to pickup aound the forest. 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!
Please follow the poorly drawn red path in the site pictures to the site.
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Picnic table
RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view
4. RV-tent,gorgeous PRIVATE water view
98%
(92)
19mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Remote private tract in northern Michigan with Portage Creek to camp at, right up close. No neighbors, no other campers! 10 miles from Grayling so you can run into town for needed supplies with little time or effort. Bring your kayaks and swimsuit for a quick splash. The creek is mostly shallow with some deeper spots. There are downed trees so the kids can kayak without going too far away but they can go out of line of sight and hearing, so please be watchful.
The last ½ mile road in can be very sandy in spots or sometimes flooded so you are encouraged to call or enquire prior to arrival, 4WD recommended for towing an RV. We recommend your first arrival during daylight hours so you can see the entrance of the property. The non-maintained county road, the last ½ mile in is typically not passable during winter and snow seasons except by snowshoe or snowmobile due to the snow level.
Never leave children or pets unattended! Be aware of the chance encounter with an endangered massasauga rattler, it may be endangered but it is still poisonous and they have been seen on and around the property before. Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals.
Never leave your small contained fire unattended at the firepit and watch for sparks, completely douse the fire before you leave as this is a fire-prone area. No fires outside the firepit for safety reasons and fire hazards. If you want firewood here in Grayling, there are a few places that sell it. There is down debris in our woods but as the summer goes by, it may be picked through.
You can pull and circle through the open area with your RV, or you can tuck into the RV / camping spot. There is enough room for 5 or 6 cars but campers may crowd that a bit. If you are tent camping, you are welcome to set up elsewhere on the property. There are trails throughout the property and you may see the ‘No Trespassing’ signs all along the perimeter of the 23.7 acres. The toilet is now working again, but we ask that you not overtaxed it ;p . The small cabin is fairly stocked with pots and pans, good for campfire cooking. Picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate on site for your use.
There are tons of nearby outdoor recreational opportunities and water bodies very close by, or you can spend your time on this private tract. The military board land and small arms range is just past the road to the west, you may hear small arms practice at times, the sound of freedom.
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Camp Bear Paw LLC
5. Camp Bear Paw LLC
100%
(107)
21mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
There is a great play area for kids, plus a log playhouse and treehouse they can even sleep in if they wish.
You and your guests will have the property to yourselves, to increase your ability to relax and enjoy, so book early!
Catch and release fishing, beach area for swimming, plus zip line, water slide, and giant swing that all land you in the water.
Horse shoes, sand pit volley ball court, and tetherball are here as well.
Wildlife is abundant on our property. We are a mile from ORV trails and State land, 30-45 minutes from the Au Sable, Rifle, and Cedar rivers for canoeing, tubing, or kayaking.
There are numerous public lakes close by for fishing or pleasure cruising.
Treasure hunt a piece of Michigan history by metal detecting along our old narrow gauge railroad grade on the property.
Take a ride on our Bear Paw Dragon!
Bring a whole group to use all four sites and have a private (safe) campground outing! Fees apply to each site used.
We also have 2 RVs available to rent if needed. Contact us for details.
Look for an amazing treehouse this spring!!!
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Electrical hookup
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C & A Adventure
6. C & A Adventure
100%
(27)
22mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site
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 :)
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The Lost Oaks Campground
7. The Lost Oaks Campground
100%
(18)
23mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 32 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the charm of our family-owned campground nestled in Harrison, MI, easily accessible from 127. Our beautiful wooded sites provide the ideal setting for RVs, motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and tents. Choose from electric or rustic sites and enjoy convenient amenities like a dump station, bathroom, showers and water fill-up.
Adventure awaits with nearby ORV trails, including the Leota ORV Trailhead, and the sparkling waters of 20 lakes, all within a 20-minute radius.
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Leota Trail Camp
8. Leota Trail Camp
100%
(13)
27mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp is located on the Leota ORV trail. It's off the beaten path but that makes it much more peaceful & secluded. There is a landing for swimming and fishing in at Muskegon River down the trail.
There are three sites nestled in the great Michigan woods. Perfect for stargazing and roasting marshmallows over a campfire. There are 10 lakes within 10 miles. You can find your perfect fishing spot nearby. The property is also very popular for deer and turkey hunting.
This retreat is ideal for social events, family vacations, couples retreats, and hunting trips.
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Boondock Ridge
9. Boondock Ridge
98%
(186)
27mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Twin Peaks By The Lakes Retreat
10. Twin Peaks By The Lakes Retreat
100%
(18)
28mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 2 sites
Located in Clare county, Harrison is surrounded by 20 lakes within 20 minutes. Harrison is also known for its large amount of state land for recreational activities all year round.
We are across the street from Little Long lake and right up the road from Budd Lake public boat launches. We have deeded lake access to Little Long Lake with use of our paddle boat and kayaks. We can provide parking with a boat, trailer, etc., but will need to be arranged prior to check-in.
There are several restaurants, delivery options, and a grocery store right down the road. There is also a putt putt golf, skiing and snow tubing at Snow Snake, arcade, batting cages, bowling, indoor golf, ax throwing, beaches and Wilson State Park.
If you have side-by-sides, quads, jeeps, snowmobiles, or dirt bikes, there are endless options with groomed trails in the area for you to ride all day long.
Our property has two cabins on property, the Harrison Hideaway cabin and Wanderer's Hideaway that can be rented together for larger groups or rented separately. Please message me if you would like to rent both cabins for you and your guests.
We are new to this process and want to make you and your guest feel accommodated with a 5 Star stay.
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Baker's Green Acres Farm Campground
11. Baker's Green Acres Farm Campground
100%
(10)
28mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the peace and quiet of a sustainable farm while only an hour and a half in all directions to hiking, fishing, lakes and rivers to play in. We are about 2 hours from Mackinaw and the fun of the Island and Fort Michilimackinac, and an hour and a half from Lake Michigan, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids. With so much to do, the peace and quiet of this campground is a great place to relax at the end of the day, enjoy some farm fresh meat on the grill, and plan the next day's adventures.
The campsites overlook over 80 acres of hay field and wildlife area. It's a great place for sky watching. The wildlife area has walking paths for you to enjoy. Deer are common. Right next door is Baker's Green Acres, a regenerative working farm with cows, chickens, pigs, and dogs. This is farm country, with open land and lots of quiet.
For example, only 16 miles away is Mitchell State Park. White sand, blue water and warm sunlight mesh to make a rockin’ vacation atmosphere at William Mitchell State Park. Whether you’re a fan of skiing, hiking, snowmobiling, fishing or swimming, you can give your next outdoor excursion a dash of something special here. Enjoy the celebratory vibe that comes along with seasonal festivals and top-notch picnicking on 300+ acres between Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac, or head out on the Mitchell-Heritage nature trail for superb wildlife viewing.
There is a creek within walking and biking distance of the campground, plus good fishing just up the road a few minutes. Come on over and visit the farm while you're here! You can pick up eggs from the hens, pet the cows, and laugh at the antics of the pigs.
Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
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Water hookup
Camp Chill AF!
12. Camp Chill AF!
100%
(36)
31mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
There are 5 secluded sites on 15 acres of woods and open land. Easy access to each site.
Large communal campfire area with firewood available on site or very nearby. Campsites do have their own firepits if desired.
A camper is set up for restroom use and there is a hose available for water.
There is Disk Golf, a horseshoe pit, Yard Darts and Corn Hole available to play.
Centrally located to several attractions!
Manistee Lake is about 2 miles away, Manistee River is just 15 mins away, a slow meandering river. Great for a lazy day floating on a tube, kayaking and canoeing.
The infamous Torch Lake and River is about 20 mins away. Equally beautiful Elk Lake along with the beaches of Lake Michigan.
Traverse City and Gaylord are 35 mins away and historic Grayling is about 25 mins away.
The mighty Mackinac Bridge is just 50 mins away. Visit the quaint Mackinac Island and pick up some of the famous fudge!
Leetsville ORV trail head is a little over 6 miles away for ORV enthusiasts. Three golf courses within 9 miles. Cherry Street Market is 9 miles away for a large array of fresh local fruits, vegetables and flowers. Garden art and more!
13 Ski Resorts within an hr or less, mostly less.
There are so many things to see and do year around here in beautiful Northern Michigan!
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Stillwater Cabin
13. Stillwater Cabin
94%
(17)
32mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Remote 40 acre's, rolling wooded property. Only five camp sites and walking trails. Close to Cadillac and Lake City, numerous surrounding lakes. Very peaceful and quiet. Close to crooked lake, lake Missaukee Lake Cadillac, Lake Mitchell. Also only 10 minutes from shopping and downtown. Also near state land. Fire wood and water provided.
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400 acres of private forest-Tent-RV
14. 400 acres of private forest-Tent-RV
100%
(10)
32mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Over 400 acres of private land of upland forest, lake frontage, and cedar swamp with many secluded campsites separated apart for tents and RV's to choose from. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy their stay at this secluded and large acreage forest Up North! At nightfall, you will enjoy a starry night sky free from city lights. This is perfect for folks who want to camp but do not wish to be crammed in next to other campers. We offer over 400 acres and 4 sites at a time for campers but we have many more areas that you can camp at to choose from. You will have a lot of room to breathe the fresh forest air. You’ll have excellent opportunities for wildlife photos. This is a wilderness area and you will have cell phone reception mainly on the higher ground areas of the property. We have campsite maps soon online. Please contact us for hunting opportunities for deer season.
If you need a break from the quiet and relaxation, you can drive over to Kalkaska (12 miles), Mancelona (8 miles), or Traverse City (30 miles) for dinner and shopping.
We have been working on many large and small projects all over our property. We have recently majorly upgraded our road and trail system. Please drive on it gently, respectful of the work we have put into it and of other campers with pets and children. Another project is the rustic boardwalk down to Manistee Lake. This walkway is accessible via Cunningham Rd (the far western border of the property). Bring along some boots that can get a bit dirty, if it rains then it will be muddy, and bring your bug spray. The boardwalk building materials are constructed entirely of onsite native cedar hand-sawn timber – built by your host, Bryce. This leads you to the Manistee Lake frontage. Coming soon: a dock for boating and enjoying the water.
We now have 4 outhouses dispersed throughout the property for your convenience. Please understand we are not able to maintain these outhouses and campers must be respectful and clean up after themselves. Bring toilet paper in case there is none in the outhouses. Please respect our Leave-No-Trace policy and remove all trash from your campsite and area.
Your leashed pets are allowed but you must be respectful of other campers with pets as well. Do not let your pets run loose and to other campsites. All children and pets must be attended at all times for safety reasons.
Ticks are on the rise, and the springtime can be very buggy, and mosquito-y with the surrounding swampy areas. There are bear, coyote, fox, and an assortment of other creatures big and small. This is a wilderness area and so please be aware of wild animals. Never leave children or pets unattended!
The northernmost opening has honey bees maintained by an electric fence. Please keep pets and children away from this area. You are welcome to look at it but do not touch the fence or bother the bees, they are busy making honey for all of Michigan.
There is direct access to 100s of miles of snowmobiling trails spanning from Leetsville to Kalkaska (MCCCT Access). You’ll have access out the eastern gate but please remember to shut the gate going in and out. Otherwise outside ATV traffic will come in off of state land.
All motorized vehicles must stay on the trail system, do not spin tires or tear up the bare ground. The trail system has recently been updated at owner's expense and maintained for your convenience but it is easily rutted. Please be respectful of our trails. You must drive under 10 mph on the property due to safety and insurance regulations. There are areas along the trails that have deep holes close by the trails. Watch your step or driving around these areas. Safe, sober and responsible behavior and driving is imperative on the trails. No alcohol or drug use.
Do not put nails or metal in the trees. Do not use firearms without express written permission from the owners and when other campers are around. Hunting season is set for hunting rental on this site. No additional campsites will be offered during this time. Please contact us (owners) for available hunting dates and rates. This property can accommodate up to 8 hunters.
After 1 1/2 years of completely remodeling our cabin, we now can offer you a lovely stay in a snug, warm 2 bedroom 700 sq foot cabin, comfortably sleeps 6, 1 queen bed in one bedroom, 1 queen and 1 full sized bed in the other bedroom. The cabin is a 2-night minimum stay. It comes with all the amenities, wifi, hot shower, linens, bedding, towels wood stove, electric heat, a completely stocked full kitchen and much, much more. This is our personal family cabin so please treat it gently. Please contact us for scheduling the cabin. Traveling with more than 6? Reach out to us about the additional accommodations available on-site, including 120V RV hookups (addt'l fee). The cabin has internet and internet cell phone connection at the cabin. We are in the wilderness, so the internet is functional but not excellent. There is only cell phone reception on the higher elevations of the property.
Please contact me with your specific questions and needs.
We have nearby amenities- LAKES- Manistee Lake (southern most boundary of the property), Twin Lakes (3.1 miles), Pickerel Lake (4.1 miles), Starvation Lake (5.5 miles) BEACHES: Pencil Lake Beach (23.3 miles), Grand Traverse Bay (31.9 miles), Peninsula Beach (35.9 miles), Clinch Park Beach (36.1 miles), Torch Lake (36.1 miles), Lake Michigan (41.4 miles) BLUE RIBBON TROUT STREAMS: Manistee River (11.7 miles), AuSable River (16.7 miles) SKI DAYS: Mt Mancelona (9.1 miles), Shanty Creek Resort (16.6 miles), Hanson Hills (22.9 miles), Boyne Mountain Resort (30.0 miles), Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area (31.3 miles) WINE + BREW: Short's Brewing Company (19.7 miles), Rolling Oak Brewing Co (23.2 miles), Paddle Hard Brewing (23.5 miles), Torch Lake Cellars (23.7 miles), WaterFire Vineyards (30.6 miles), Snowbelt Brewing (32.6 miles) CASINOS: Turtle Creek Casino (24.6 miles), Odawa Casino (44.0 miles), Leelanau Sands Casino (55.7 miles) SEASONAL: National Trout Festival - Kalkaska (Apr), National Cherry Festival- Traverse City (May), Bow Hunting Season (Oct 1—Dec 1), Hunting Season (Nov 15—Dec 1) AIRPORT: Cherry Capital Airport (34.2 miles)
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Woodhaven
15. Woodhaven
100%
(14)
33mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site
40 acres of serene peaceful woods. This sight is restricted to trailers and motor homes with fully functional bathrooms. There are no toilet or shower facilities here. This sight is full hookup.
Near many crystal clear sand bottom lakes with the nearest being 3/4 miles from your sight. There are trails and routes for all off-road vehicles less than a mile away as well as ice cream and gas for all your motorized toys.
🌲 Your Perfect Getaway Starts Here!
Looking for the ideal spot to park your 5th wheel and unwind in nature? We have a spacious, full-hookup site designed with larger rigs in mind— a level pad and plenty of room to relax under the stars with your 5th wheel or motor home. Our property is 40 acres of woods, peace, and quiet to enjoy nature in Mancelona, Michigan. There is a home on the property, however it is vacant so you will have privacy.
Enjoy the peace and beauty of the outdoors with all the comforts of home. Whether you're here for a weekend retreat or an extended stay, our campground site offers:
✅ Full 30/50 AMP hookup
✅ Water and sewer connection
✅ Shaded lot and scenic views
✅ Pet-friendly space
✅ ️Fire pit with seasoned wood
✅️ Picnic table
✅ Nearby hiking trails, fishing spots, ATV trails, Jet skiing, Kayaking, Canoeing, and local attractions
Pets
Full hookups
pineleaf.
16. pineleaf.
100%
(72)
35mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE DO NOT!! USE PARTRIDGE LANE THE ROAD IS A SAND TRAP YOU WILL GET STUCK!! MUST USE SECONDARY DRIVEWAY!! WHICH IS TO THE EAST OF PARTRIDGE LANE IN THE DIP THERE'S A SIGN THERE!!
Pineleaf is a private setting in the forest with rolling hills and trails on the property. There's an abundance of wildlife consisting of, but not limited to bears, bobcats, porcupines and deer. It's a true nature lover's dream!
For the rockhounds, there are Petoskey Stones, Emeralds, Opals and many other gems to enjoy finding among the trails and beaches. Our trails lead right off the property among the lakes and streams. All side x sides, ATVS, dirt bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, or fishing boats Welcome!
We are located close to Torch Lake, Elk Lake, Otsego Lake, and many more! Come enjoy Lake Michigan beaches, lighthouses, parks, restaurants, casinos, and local shopping. Nearby cities include Traverse City, Petoskey, Gaylord, and Boyne City.
Pineleaf has a total of 4 campsites! 3 are primitive and 1 rustic cabin with more cabins to come in the near future. The primitive sites sleep up to 15 people and 8 tents. The cabin sleeps up to 5 guests and is handicap accessible! and can also put tents near the cabin.
The camp is cannabis friendly for 21+ with id and complimentary with the exception if you dont want to smoke/cunsume cannabis its optional. No alcohol allowed at the camp but you may go up town or down to The Hideaway Bar & Grill for a bite and a drink!
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Tree Huggers Haven
17. Tree Huggers Haven
100%
(14)
36mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 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.
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Cooking equipment
Stars Above
18. Stars Above
100%
(31)
36mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site
You will enjoy this 4,000 square foot campsite with plenty of space for all your activities. Grassy area with firepit is part of this campsite. Beautiful rock garden located in your campsite living area. You will enjoy the evening stars around your campfire. Give us a try and we are sure you will make this one of your favorite destinations.
### UNITS LONGER THAN 30 FEET, CONTACT HOST PRIOR TO BOOKING FOR APPROVAL ### Backing into campsite may require backing from the passenger side direction.
If your RV is 30-amp, make sure you bring a 50-amp to 30-amp pigtail.
WIFI, level spacious concrete pad, picnic table, fire pit, view of Loon Landing (pond) and great for star gazing. Grass Lake on property (private) with sandy beach, swimming raft, fishing docks on both Grass Lake and Loon Landing, playground, putt-putt golf, pickleball, volleyball court, horseshoes, full bathhouse, and plenty of trails and private roads for bicycling and walking.
*** 20% DISCOUNT FOR STAYS 3 NIGHTS OR MORE ***
This is a seasonal campsite available May to Mid October.
Pets
Full hookups
Arcala Bunkhouse
19. Arcala Bunkhouse
100%
(29)
36mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 1 site
Peaceful setting on 40 wooded acres that is located at the end of two county roads with virtually no traffic. Upon arriving at the property, you will enter through a gate and arrive to the secluded camp area with a beautiful, cozy full log cabin. *Please note the directions begin at the Shell Station (102 South Michigan Avenue, Manton, MI 49663) because the cabin doesn't have a physical address.* We're happy to meet you and guide you right to it!
If you plan to arrive after our standard check-in window (2:00 PM – 7:00 PM), please let us know! While we won't be able to greet you in person, we'll gladly send clear self-check-in directions so you can settle in smoothly.
The cabin has propane lighting, propane refrigerator, an antique stove with burner tops, and a free-standing propane gas stove for crisp evenings. There is a small kitchen area with a sleeping loft above and a sitting/family area at the far end of the cabin. The kitchen is equipped with pots and pans, coffee pot, dishes, and misc. utensils. *Please bring your own linens, pillows, and water.
On the backside of the cabin, you'll find a peaceful sitting area with a firepit. When nature calls, there is a well-built outhouse that is available. There is also a large outdoor shower with heated water and a dressing area. There are trails that meander through the property for those who enjoy walking, biking, snowmobiling, or four wheeling. You won't find a more peaceful, tranquil property to relax in and enjoy the wildlife. Only 1.3 miles into Manton with several bars and restaurants. Within 3 miles you are able to gain access to State property, the Manistee River, and Chase Creek.
From the trails in this area you can go as far as Houghton Lake and Fife Lake. Great area for hunting, fishing, four wheeling, dirt bikes, and hiking. This is a great getaway you don't want to miss out on!
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Hammerhead Shark Ranch
20. Hammerhead Shark Ranch
100%
(23)
37mi from South Higgins Lake State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:
We are located on 25 acres of Pine forest. We have a micro farm where we grow specialty berries.
Luxurious rainhead shower in a modern bathroom located in our main retreat building close to your campsite.
Firewood available at your campsite free.
Across the road is a large lake.
I offer onsite massage therapy and other spa treatments, red light therapy and infra red sauna for an additional fee.
Hiking trails are located throughout our property. We are 15 minutes from downtown with numerous restaurants, breweries and wineries in the region.
We also offer yoga depending on our work schedule as we are a working farm.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Joshua
2 days ago
34 ft travel trailer
Our first hipcamp, will definitely be coming back in the future. Great view and quiet.
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Karin
5 days ago
Tent
We loved the spring water, river and views. The road noise was less loud where we camped down by the dock, but was still pretty loud. Other than that, it is a beautiful spot and we enjoyed ourselves!
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Mitch
5 days ago
Tim
5 days ago
Tent
Group trip
Nice spot in the woods, we went on October and we were the only guests on property and overall had a great time. The owners are doing some construction projects on the property, not sure how the experience would be if all the sites are occupied.
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Israel
5 days ago
Tent
Perfect place to stay, it has a beautiful view, the sky at night was impressive. Having a very clean portapottie was a game changer. We are very pleased and happy staying in this camp site.
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Daniel
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
2nd time here absolutely beautiful and very peaceful.
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Raymond
2 weeks ago
With pets
Great little quiet and peaceful place. Very kind hosts.
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Whitley
2 weeks ago
20 ft rooftop tent
Great host, beautiful property, can't wait to go back!
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Jacob
2 weeks ago
Tent
Very happy with my stay! Definitely going to be visiting again.
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Garrett
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great little spot in between three cities making it very convenient
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Christian
2 weeks ago
Tent
Had a really nice time at Camp Chill AF! The landscape was very nice, the air felt so clean to breathe. Jackie was very friendly. And to my surprise, very good cell reception.
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Daniel
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful view, pretty quiet location for the most part. Can hear 127 slightly but no biggie. Very peaceful at night and the porta potty is a plus. The $5 wood. Bundles are nice seasoned large split lots as well. Will return again
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Arriana
3 weeks ago
Tent
We tent camped at this site and it was pretty cool! Nice private area surrounded by trees, and if you like mushroom hunting it’s a great spot for that too.
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Kenneth
3 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
This is my new favorite hipcamp site. Already booked a Return trip next summer. My wife and I had a relaxing weekend together. We can't wait to come back when it's warmer, so we can tie off to the dock and float endlessly. 5 stars!
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Whit
3 weeks ago
With pets
This was by far our favorite hip camp! Art and Carole have such a beautiful space, that is well cared for. The trails throughout the property were gorgeous. Even on a rainy weekend, the cabin is so cozy. And the hot shower was a wonderful bonus!
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Danielle
3 weeks ago
27 ft travel trailer
Group trip
Brian and Patty are delightful hosts. The site is beautifully landscaped and the campground is peaceful and well kept. We didn't have to level the camper which is always a nice bonus, and the night sky was just beautiful. We truly enjoyed or visit and will be back. Thank you both!
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Evan
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Tree Huggers Haven
We stayed in Todd’s cabin for the weekend and never left the property. It’s set back down a dirt road and gave us the seclusion we were looking for. The trails gave us an opportunity to explore the property and spend time down by the river while we looked for wildlife and mushrooms along the way. The cabin is rustic, but there are some comforts added like string lights and a grill to make things easier than tent camping. We really enjoyed the nearby spring which we filtered for drinking water and used to chill our wine. Overall we had a great stay at Todd’s cabin and would recommend it for anyone who likes to spend time in nature disconnected from modern day life. There was some cell service near the cabin but don’t count on it.
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dustin
3 weeks ago
Group trip
Cabin was fantastic and the fishing was great. The sauna felt grwat after a river cold plunge.
See moreLaurie
3 weeks ago
Tent
Jackie is a great host with beautiful camp sites. Peaceful, spacious, well kept sites. Nice fire pits! Good location for visiting Traverse City, Charlevoix, Petoskey, or Grayling.
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Fen
3 weeks ago
3 nights at pineleaf.
The cabin felt very private and remote. Timothy showed us to the campsite but after that I never saw anyone else on the property. The cabin had a fridge and a cute space heater that looks like a fireplace. It was comfortable and nicely decorated
See moreSouth Higgins Lake State Park camping guide
Overview
About
Lake it up by day, moonlit pines and pow wows by night. Transport yourself to a nature state of mind at South Higgins Lake State Park, home to Higgins Lake, a large and luscious spring-fed watering hole. Popular for it’s A+ clarity and oodles of fishes for the catch, finding ways to tickle your fancy is no prob. Stretch those legs on the parks 3 hikes and discover a forested world of maple, pine, and oak. Have a slumber party with mother nature at the parks campground and end your night in the best way—camp fire. Nothing like waking up to that smokey pine fragrance on your hair and a toasty warm memory of the night before and the bright day ahead of you.
When to go
The ideal time to visit South Higgins Lake State Park is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the lake is inviting. However, the park's beauty can also be enjoyed in the quieter shoulder seasons. Winter offers a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though some facilities may be limited.
Know before you go
- Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry, as it's required for all visitors.
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for seasonal changes.
- Be mindful of park rules to protect the natural habitat and wildlife.
- Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace of your visit.
- For any inquiries or assistance, contact the park's main office during your visit.
Reviews for South Higgins Lake State Park Campgrounds
83%
4 ratings · 0 reviews
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