🌤 Weather at Houghton Lake State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17–67 °F | 51–80 °F | 27–71 °F | 9–32 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Houghton Lake 2NW, 0 mi away, elevation 1,161 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Houghton Lake State Forest is located in Michigan in Roscommon County. It is not a state park: the name refers to the Houghton Lake State Forest Campground, which the Michigan DNR manages through North Higgins Lake State Park.
Things to Do
The semi-modern campground sits on the north shore of Houghton Lake, Michigan’s largest inland lake at more than 20,000 acres, and is known for its fishing. It has 50 sites for tents and small trailers, a modern restroom building without showers, carry-in boat access and access to land open to hunting. The campground is 8 miles north of the town of Houghton Lake via West Houghton Lake Drive and Old US Highway 27.
Best Time to Visit
The campground is closed from November to April, so overnight stays are possible from May through October.
Visitor Tips
The Houghton Lake State Forest Campground takes no reservations. Sites are first come, first served, and you register online or by phone from 8 a.m. on your arrival day, using the number or website posted at the campground. The DNR lists the nightly fee as $25 and limits stays to 15 days. A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry.
Explore More Michigan State Parks
Looking for state parks in Michigan? Discover them in our Best State Parks in Michigan guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Houghton Lake SF — near Houghton Lake, Michigan’s largest inland lake (more than 20,000 acres) — provides public land recreation. Walleye, largemouth bass, and northern pike fill the vast lake. Bald eagles nest around the lakeshore. Ice fishing shanty towns appear every winter (Tip-Up Town USA festival). Snowshoe hares turn white in the surrounding forests.
Nearby Attractions
Houghton Lake — adjacent — has the Tip-Up Town USA winter carnival (January). Higgins Lake — 15 miles north — is the “most beautiful lake in the world.” Roscommon — nearby. Prudenville — adjacent.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with South Higgins Lake State Park (a short drive away).
Park Location
Plan your gear for Houghton Lake State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
