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.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Houghton Lake, MI?
When navigating and parking a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces, it's important to take your time and plan your route beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the dimensions of the motorhome and the height and width restrictions of the roads you'll be traveling on. When it comes to parking, look for designated spots or parking garages that can accommodate the size of your RV. Always pay attention to signage and be aware of any towing restrictions in the area.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in Houghton Lake, MI?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight and height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in Houghton Lake, MI. Many bridges and overpasses have low clearance levels that may not accommodate the height of your RV. Additionally, be mindful of the weight of your vehicle and ensure that you're not exceeding any weight limits on the roads you're traveling.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class C RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if any leveling equipment is necessary. If so, they will walk you through how to set it up safely.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class C motorhome rental during my rental period?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental. Many RVs have storage compartments or racks that can be used to store bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear. Check with the RV owner to see what storage options are available and how much weight they can accommodate.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class C motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class C motorhome rentals are generally less fuel-efficient than smaller vehicles, so it's important to be mindful of your fuel usage. To minimize fuel costs, try to stick to slower speeds and avoid idling or rapid acceleration. Planning out your route ahead of time can also help you save fuel by avoiding unnecessary detours or backtracking.
Can I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class C motorhome rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
Yes, you can bring your own entertainment equipment or appliances to use with the Class C motorhome rental. However, be sure to check with the RV owner beforehand to ensure that the RV is equipped with the necessary outlets or connections to use your equipment. Additionally, be aware of any safety hazards, such as using portable grills near the RV, and take appropriate precautions.
Are any particular features or amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Houghton Lake, MI?
The features and amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals can vary depending on the make and model of the RV. Some common features that may be available in Class C motorhome rentals include kitchenettes, bathrooms with showers, and additional sleeping areas. Check with the RV owner to see what features and amenities are included in their particular rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class C motorhome rental, and do I need to know any specific maintenance or cleaning considerations?
The RV owner will familiarize you with how to use the facilities. Take note of where the water and electrical hookups are located, and make sure to follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the RV owner. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, be sure to follow proper procedures for disposing of waste and using cleaning products that won't damage the RV's plumbing or fixtures.
