Roscommon, Michigan sits at the southern edge of Michigan's expansive Huron National Forest, with an average elevation of 1,165 feet. The area's sandy, well-drained soil supports extensive pine forests while maintaining a northern continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Campgrounds throughout the region experience significant temperature variations between day and night, often dropping 20-30 degrees after sunset even during summer months.
What to Do
Trail riding access: North Higgins Lake State Park Campground offers direct connections to multiple trail systems. "Many ORV trails with direct access to sites" according to Teena J., who noted the "stunning fall colors" during her stay.
Kayaking the Mason Tract: The South Branch of the Au Sable River provides excellent paddling opportunities accessible from Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground. "The access to the river is fantastic, with multiple trails and access points easily accessible with a short walk," reports Jeff P., who has used this location as a fish camp for 20 years.
Fishing for bluegill: The smaller lakes around Roscommon offer productive fishing. At Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground, one visitor mentioned, "My friend did catch a handful of bluegill" while enjoying the lake that is "small but good for kayak & paddle boarding."
What Campers Like
Crystal clear water: The lake conditions at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground receive consistent praise. "The beach was nice, water is crystal clear," writes Jay T., who stayed in a travel trailer the week before July 4th.
Well-maintained restrooms: Facilities at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground remain clean and updated. "Showers and bathrooms are updated and clean," notes Joe S., who appreciated the "well maintained grounds" and paved roads good for bike riding.
Spacious campsites: Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground offers larger than average sites. Laurel K. mentioned "Campsites were spacious and had nice stands of trees in between to provide privacy" during their three-night September stay.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Peak season at South Higgins Lake sites fill quickly. "Getting a site here during the summer can be very difficult. You will want one of the sites closer to the lake. If you want one of these sites, you will need to be ready to book the site 6 months in advance," advises Stu E.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. At Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA, visitors should prepare for limited reception. Amy D. noted about North Higgins, "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds have sites affected by traffic. Kathie M. mentioned about a cabin at North Higgins Lake, "Only complaint was cabin was close to fairly busy road," while Brian H. reported "We were on sight 169 this whole side is next to a busy road cars and logging trucks all day and night way noisy."
Tips for Camping with Families
Family-oriented activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park & Resort specializes in kid-friendly options. "The jumping pillow is another great feature. Grew up here in the summers as a kid, great memories," shares Lexi G., who notes it's "great for kids" with "tons of activities all day long."
Educational opportunities: Old growth forest exploration adds learning elements. Lisa B. reports Hartwick Pines features "multiple ranger programs each week, hosts that give you coffee or hot chocolate in the morning" and "an old logging community with some programming in busier months."
Water safety planning: The lake depth changes can surprise visitors. Stu E. notes about South Higgins Lake that "The water is less than waist deep for about 100 yards out and then drops off to about 90' deep," creating excellent swimming conditions but requiring appropriate supervision.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Be prepared for potential setup challenges at dog friendly campgrounds near Roscommon. Megan K. mentioned about Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA that "our water hook up was on the opposite side of the site from the power and sewer hook up so we had to have a hose running across our site; glad we had an extra hose to use as an extension."
Site selection for privacy: Choose carefully for seclusion. Christie L. advises at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground, "If we stayed again - we'd pick site 101. Little more privacy than the rest. We stayed at 137 which backed up to the woods which was lovely."
Leveling requirements: Some sites require significant adjustment. Gary E. noted at Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA, "Site 61 did take some time to get all leveled out almost didn't have enough blocks. But very nice once set up."
