Are you in need of a campground near Higgins Lake, MI? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Higgins Lake campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.
"Ive been wanting to paddle Higgins lake for a long time but never did because I know I am not a huge fan of state parks.... especially the large, crowded ones like this. You know what though?"
"It is in a nice location with lakeside swimming and picnic tables while having the camping site close by. Campers are respectful and it is nice and quiet at night. Terrific park!"
"Higgins lake is beautiful. The water is less than waist deep for about 100 yards out and then drops off to about 90' deep. The water color is amazing when the sun is out."
"In addition to the boat launch there is also a camp store down the road with tons of snacks, camping gear/utensils, and Higgins lake souvenirs.
I will definitely return again!"
"It is a smaller KOA surrounded by dense woods. Some trails and very close to Higginss Lake state parjs."
"Some family activities and trails. Surrounded by nice mature trees. Site 61 did take some time to get all leveled out almost didn't have enough blocks.
But very nice once set up."
"A few trails walking distance from the campground.
The old growth trail is beautiful and really well maintained. The trees are crazy TALL."
"Some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I’ve seen."
$37 - $68 / night
"Great campground filled with wonderful staff, a cute camp store, hiking and biking trails, wild berries, mini golf, a pool, and plenty of activities!"
"Just a short drive to Houghton or Higgins lake."
"I love the campsite and the access to the dam! Great time with the dogs! Can’t wait for the construction to be completed in the fall..."
$15 / night
"This campground is beautifully located in the middle of Huron-Manistee national forest."
"Very nice campground on Kneff Lake in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. The campground road is blacktop in great condition. There are 2 loops."
$15 - $20 / night
"the sites are sandy and surrounded by tall pines and ferns. some biting flies, especially near river (late june). multiple vault toilets and one water pump. sites are spacious enough for small campers"
"We love Michigan outdoors! We chose paddling and camping the Big Manistee River. As is the expectation when we camp…there will be rain…and this outing was no different."
"Being right on the lake was wonderful."
"The campground is conveniently located but this means it’s a very busy place."
GuideWe were passing through and didn't have time to explore campground arriving around 7p & road tired.
Site # 3 was without metal fire ring as shown to have in reservation picture. In its place was a hole and pile of ash with a hardened ash plug as if it was dug out of ground and thrown near bushes, strange. We were only campers there but heard faint voices outdoors after turning in to sleep, kinda creepy.
Pictures taken just before leaving early morning. Heard there might be poison ivy around camp so only took basic photos but stayed clear of foliage around site.
TravelerThis is a military base and need proper identification to enter. The sites are well maintained (sand pads). The beach area is well maintained and relaxing. The wireless internet is GREAT! Also have cell coverage. Clean and quite for only $20 per night (cash or check only). The camp site manager (Tim) was fantastic!
GuideAbsolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.
This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.
From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.
I’d love to come again.
TravelerThe site was truly rustic. About 1/4 mile to the next site. Nice clearing with multiple spots you could maneuver a small camper back into if you are a good enough driver. If not, there is a nice clearing by the road that also works. Had a fire ring with a flip over grill. Trails run back into woods to potential cat hole locations. For water, you can head up the road a few miles to the lumberman monument park, and they have a fauset by the parking lot. Also, about 1/8 mile down the road is an established path down to the Au Sable River to get water to extinguish your campfire but not for drinking (this stretch of the river is not safe to drink). During the day and sometimes at night you can hear a lot of road traffic and also jet engine noise from the local airport. Good openings for solar if you are using movable panels or can get your camper back far enough, but not so good in the default parking spot. Verizon = 3-4 bars 5G.
TravelerWe camped on the ausable river camping on alcona pond. The sites are very secluded from one another, no bathrooms, no water available, but its quiet, private, and had access right to the river. Lots of poison ivy in July, so be aware. Lots of campers across the river that you can see, but nothing overly noisy or distracting. Our site had room for 3 families with tents. Some walking paths, but we didn’t wander too far. Short drives to beautiful overlooks, or the dam for fishing. We wanted 006 site originally. its level with the river and right on a winding bend! Sites seem to reserve fast, so be ready!
GuideRight of charlevoix lake with a nice beach. Our site was level.Very clean and well kept campground. 20 minute walk to downtown East Jordan. Lots are small
GuideNice campground. The NCT and Fife lake loop trailhead is right in the campground. There is also Manistee river access for kayaking and fishing. Good sized campsites but some are directly across from each other. A little bit of noise off in the distance sometimes but not sure where it was coming from other than that it was quiet and peaceful
TravelerWe stayed at PaddleBrave this past weekend and couldn’t be happier with our experience. We rented Cabin 1 and the campsite directly across from it, and from start to finish, everything was fantastic.
The owner and staff were incredibly friendly, accommodating, and had excellent communication both during the reservation process and throughout our stay. The sites and camp bathrooms were the cleanest I’ve ever seen, and the staff went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable.
The gift shop was a nice bonus, offering fresh coffee for just $1 every morning and stocking plenty of essentials in case you forgot something at home. Downtown Roscommon is only about 6 minutes away, making it easy to pop into town.
We also did the 4-hour tubing trip and rented tubes from Paddlebrave—it couldn’t have gone better. The river was beautiful and the whole experience was smooth and well-organized.
ScoutNice campground with 41 sites. Some sites are more remote, others are connected. The toilets are nice and stocked, however the water pump nearest our site is out of service which stinks but not a deal breaker. There's access to pickerel lake with a boat launch and a picnic table to enjoy a meal at. Great choice if looking in the area. We're rent camping but lots of RV's here.
Camping near Higgins Lake, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to enjoy outdoor adventures, there’s something for you.
Camping near Higgins Lake, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakeside views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds at Higgins Lake?
The top campgrounds at Higgins Lake are South Higgins Lake State Park Campground and North Higgins Lake State Park Campground. South Higgins is family-friendly with a massive protected boat launch, large campsites that can accommodate multiple tents and vehicles, and beautiful shallow water extending about 100 yards before dropping to depths of 90 feet. The crystal-clear water with amazing color makes it perfect for swimming. North Higgins offers a slightly quieter experience while still providing excellent lake access for paddling enthusiasts. Both parks can get busy during peak season, particularly around holidays, so reservations are recommended. The shallow, clear water of Higgins Lake makes these campgrounds especially appealing for families with small children.
How do North and South Higgins Lake State Parks compare for camping?
South Higgins Lake State Park offers larger facilities with more amenities, including a massive protected boat launch in a lagoon and extensive shallow swimming areas ideal for families. The sites are surprisingly spacious despite being in a busy campground, with room for multiple tents, vehicles, and even boat trailers. However, it tends to be more crowded and can get noisy, especially during peak times. North Higgins Lake State Park provides a somewhat more relaxed atmosphere while still offering excellent lake access for paddlers and swimmers. It features numerous sites but maintains reasonable spacing between neighbors. Both parks showcase Higgins Lake's crystal-clear waters, but South caters more to boaters and larger groups, while North might appeal slightly more to those seeking a less intensely busy experience.
What accommodation options are available near Higgins Lake, Michigan?
Beyond the state parks, Higgins Lake offers diverse accommodation options. Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA provides amenities like water hookups and is big-rig friendly for RV travelers. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Reedsburg Dam State Forest Campground offers quiet, spacious waterfront sites with pretty views, just a short drive from Higgins Lake. Other nearby options include Houghton Lake State Forest Campground with boat-in access, and family-oriented resorts like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. The area also features numerous vacation rentals, cabins, and motels in nearby Roscommon for those preferring non-camping accommodations while still enjoying Higgins Lake's recreational opportunities.
Keep Exploring
