Glamping close to Luzerne, Michigan offers travelers access to the Huron National Forest with its network of woodland trails and clear lakes. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation and experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-80°F in July, while winter months can drop well below freezing. Many upscale accommodations in this region provide year-round access to nearby motorized and non-motorized trail systems.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Rifle River Recreation Area offers numerous trails connected directly to campsites. "Amazing views and great riding for all ages!" reports Dawn C. about the excellent biking trails at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground.
Kayaking on motor-free waters: Clear water bodies provide perfect paddling opportunities. Jason N. from Spruce Rustic Campground notes it's "Ideal for trout anglers. There's an access point to Gamble Creek between sites 171 and 173."
Winter activities: While most campgrounds close seasonally, some offer year-round access. According to Cindy C., Hartwick Pines State Park is "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites in the area. "Devoe campground was very private sites are open and surrounded by trees," writes Daniel C. about his experience at Devoe Lake Rustic Campground.
Clean facilities: The region's campgrounds maintain high standards. At North Higgins Lake State Park, Jay T. reports, "The park and bathrooms were always clean, showers were clean and had good water pressure."
Crystal clear lakes: Water quality in this region stands out. Christina M. describes South Higgins Lake: "If you aren't familiar with this lake it is extremely clear and very large, there are 2 sandbar areas which are very popular providing 3-4 feet water to hangout in."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites need advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Erin S. explains, "Sites require a reservation either at the office or online. Not somewhere you can just pay for on spot because it's in the rifle river recreation area."
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends bring higher occupancy. Jessica from South Higgins Lake State Park advises, "On holiday weekends we camp further away from the boat launch, as it gets extremely busy!"
Spotty cell coverage: Don't count on reliable service. Amy D. warns about North Higgins Lake, "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Look for shallow swimming areas with gradual entry. Dennis B. from Grousehaven Campground shares, "The water was warmish and crystal clear, my 2.5 y/o daughter loved playing at the beach and the shallow swimming area."
Evening activities: Several campgrounds offer organized entertainment. Megan K. notes that Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA had "a big inflatable slide for kids and movies playing at night."
Trail riding access: Some sites allow direct trail access for ORVs. "Close enough to the ORV trails that you can ride to them from the park which is a huge bonus as many parks won't let you unload or ride out of the park," explains Megan K. about her experience at Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Some parks offer complete services. Joe S. reports about Hartwick Pines State Park: "Nice and level site. Well maintained grounds, with a fire pit and picnic table. State park, so no WiFi. AT&T is 1 bar."
Dump station logistics: Plan accordingly for service needs. Christina M. advises, "Try to get a full hook up site if you can.....no line to dump on your way out!"
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra preparation. Gary E. from Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA warns, "Site 61 did take some time to get all leveled out almost didn't have enough blocks."
