Houghton Lake, now recognized as an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Roscommon County, Michigan, saw its first settlers, the Emery family, in 1873. The Emery family's construction of a family home was the beginning of the immense impact lumbering would eventually have on the early development of the Houghton Lake community, which was officially established in 1883. The development of the community's roads and railways was partly done to support the growing lumber trade.
Originally known as "Roscommon Lake," the community's name was changed in honor of Douglass Houghton, Michigan's first state geologist, shortly after his death. By the early 1900s, the area's lumber industry was on the decline and railways began to be used primarily as transportation for people who wanted to experience for themselves the wonders of the "north country." As the Houghton Lake fishery was established and became exponentially more popular, an increasing number of fishermen began making their way to the area. Houghton Lake now has a healthy population of about 3,350 people.
Today, some of this history is on display in the Houghton Lake Area Historical Society in Prudenville, just east of Houghton Lake. Other worthwhile museums to visit in the area include the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum in Roscommon, Au Sable River Center, and Roscommon Area Historical Society. Sometimes, smaller communities like Houghton Lake have the richest history.
If you're looking for a bite to eat during your travels in Houghton Lake, there are tons of family-friendly restaurants and diners in the area that serve up great American classics. Many of them are right along the lake, so you don't have to worry about going out of your way. Some of the best include MJ's Eatery, Garrett's place, Little Boots Country Diner, Back Door Saloon, Buccilli's Pizza, Powell's Restaurant, and The Fox Den Restaurant.
420 Music Festival 2022 – Celebrating the gift of music, this is one of Lansing's biggest music events. It is held at Adado Riverfront Park in April.
East Lansing Art Festival – The upcoming East Lansing Art Festival will be held in May. The goal of the festival is to increase art appreciation around the community and to inspire creativity.
Winter Trails Day – Winter Trails Day is an annual event that happens in January. It's a great family event that even offers free food and complimentary passes to the Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon.
Located on an island in Lake Superior is Isle Royale National Park. Although it's quite a trek from Houghton Lake and no vehicles are permitted on the island, it's nonetheless an amazing experience if you're up for the trip north. Not only is there an abundance of great wildlife to observe, but it's an excellent place for hiking and boating. Other self-guided activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and visiting the lighthouses in the park are also popular.
The next closest national park to Houghton Lake is Indiana Sand Dunes National Park, just a little way into Indiana. The park, located on the southern tip of Lake Michigan, puts on display some remarkable sand dunes. In addition to the dunes are impressive prairies, wetlands, and forests. Plus, it's only about an hour from Chicago.
Another nearby national park is Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, sandwiched between Cleveland and Akron. The park is known for its 100 stunning waterfalls and lush terrain. The contrast of the four seasons is illustrated beautifully inside of the park, with delightful foliage in the fall and pleasantly warm temperatures during the spring and summer.
In proximity to Roscommon is North Higgins Lake State Park. The gem of the park is Lake Higgins, regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the United States. Like many other lakes in Michigan, Lake Higgins is home to a colossal variety of fish, including yellow perch, pike, trout, and smelt.
Hartwick Pines State Park, a half-hour or so north of Houghton Lake, is a 7,000-acre park near Interstate 75. Within the park is the Hartwick Pines Logging Museum, an enriching visit if you're interested in learning more about the history of Michigan's logging industry.
Yet another reason to travel to Lake Michigan on the east side of the state is Ludington State Park. With miles of the shorelines of both Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, it's almost as if you're at the ocean. The park's dunes, beaches, forests, and wetlands only add to the refreshing coastline feel.
If you can't find any other reason to head down to Lansing, Michigan's beautiful capital, do it to see the Michigan State Capitol Building. Opened in 1879 and designed by architect Elijah E. Myers, the building is unique for a number of reasons. One of the most striking things you might notice at first is the cast-iron dome. In fact, it was one of the country's first state capitols to be topped with cast iron.
A campground lauded for its customer service and right near the lake is Wooded Acres Family Campground. The campground is open all year and offers full-service propane.
Another campground on the west end of the lake with great reviews is West Houghton Lake Campground, a pet-friendly destination that has 128 partially wooded sites. It also has modern bathrooms, a camp store, and more.
Just a short drive from the lake is Houghton Lake Campgrounds. It's the go-to place for many campers because of its consistently top-tier service.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Houghton Lake, MI, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Houghton Lake?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Houghton Lake from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Houghton Lake?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
