Camper submitted image from Houghton Lake State Forest Campground - 1
View All

Established Camping

Houghton Lake State Forest Campground

Houghton Lake State Forest Campground, near Houghton Lake, Michigan, is a straightforward camping destination that caters to those looking for a no-frills outdoor experience. With easy access to the lake and a mix of wooded and waterfront sites, it’s a decent choice for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts.

The campground allows fires, so you can roast marshmallows and share stories around the campfire. Visitors have mentioned that the facilities are clean and well-kept, with a main bathroom featuring multiple toilet and sink combos, plus vault toilets scattered around the area. As one camper noted, “It did the trick” for a quick overnight stay.

If you’re after convenience, you’ll appreciate the proximity to local restaurants and gas stations, making it easy to stock up on supplies. While some campers pointed out that the campground isn’t very secluded and is close to the road, others enjoyed the easy access to the lake and the friendly DNR staff. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the nearby area, Houghton Lake State Forest Campground offers a practical base for your adventures.

Description

State Park

Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp

Suggest an Edit

Location

Houghton Lake State Forest Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

From jct US 27 & Hwy 55: Go 6 mi E on Hwy 55, then 6 mi N on West Shore Dr, then E on CR-300.

Address

180 South Harrison
Houghton Lake, MI 48629

Coordinates

44.40063347 N
84.772175 W

Open in Google Maps

The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Learn More

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
50%
50%
0%
0%

3.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 2, 2022

It did the trick

Late nite…easy to find and had lots of availability, although it was a Monday night after a rain. Had a main bathroom with 4 individuals toilet and sink combos. There were vault toilets around the property as well. Pulled the car in and set up camp after submitting the self registration fee and form.

Site27
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2021

About Average

Not very secluded + close to the road. Clean and well kept, and friendly DNR staff. Easy access to the lake, and not far from restaurants and gas stations-hence the road, lol. If you’re after middle-of-nowhere peace and quiet, keep looking. But if clean, comfortable and easy access to town/supplies if more your speed, 2 thumbs up!

Site21
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jul. 15, 2019

Great camping!

Both the sites on the water and in the back are great, depending on if you like water front camping or wooded.

  • Review photo of Houghton Lake State Forest Campground by Lauren W., July 15, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the max vehicle length at Houghton Lake State Forest Campground?

    Houghton Lake State Forest Campground allows vehicles up to 40 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Houghton Lake State Forest Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Houghton Lake State Forest Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Houghton Lake State Forest Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Houghton Lake State Forest Campground does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Houghton Lake State Forest Campground?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is good.