West Houghton Lake Campground

For Michigan residents, Houghton Lake is more than just a body of water; it's a cherished destination for year-round recreation, relaxation, and a true sense of community. At the heart of this vibrant area lies West Houghton Lake Campground, a long-standing landmark that has become a beloved "home away from home" for countless campers. This private campground offers a blend of modern conveniences and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a highly desirable choice for RVers, tent campers, and those seeking a seasonal retreat in one of Michigan's most popular inland lake regions.

West Houghton Lake Campground stands out for its flexibility, comprehensive amenities, and its ability to cater to both transient visitors and a large community of seasonal campers. It’s a place where you can pull in for a night or settle in for the entire summer, enjoying the vast opportunities that Houghton Lake and the surrounding area provide. This article will provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of what makes West Houghton Lake Campground a top choice for Michiganders, detailing its prime location, the extensive services it offers, its distinctive features and highlights, and how to plan your visit to this enduring Houghton Lake destination.

From late-season adventures to peak summer fun, West Houghton Lake Campground prides itself on being open year-round and offering the facilities to support a comfortable stay. Its reputation as a well-loved and appreciated RV destination, combined with its family and pet-friendly environment, solidifies its position as a go-to spot for locals looking for a reliable and enjoyable camping experience in Michigan. Let's explore what makes West Houghton Lake Campground a beloved staple in the Houghton Lake community.

West Houghton Lake Campground is conveniently located at 9371 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI 48629, USA. This prime address places it directly across the street from the west shore DNR boat launch on Houghton Lake, Michigan's largest inland lake. This strategic location offers campers immediate and easy access to the expansive waters of Houghton Lake, known for its excellent fishing, boating, and various water sports.

For Michigan residents, reaching West Houghton Lake Campground is straightforward and well-marked. From US-127, campers can take Exit 194 at M-55, travel east towards Houghton Lake for approximately half a mile to the first stoplight (Old US-27), then turn left (north) and the campground will be on the left about half a mile down. For those traveling from I-75, take Exit 227 at M-55, go west towards Houghton Lake for approximately 15 miles to Old US-27, then turn right and the campground will be on the left about half a mile. While one review cautions about missing the entrance at night, advising reflective tape or an expanded Google map, the clear directions provided by the campground and its established presence make it generally easy to find during daylight hours. Its position in the heart of the Houghton Lake area means campers are never far from local restaurants, shops, and other attractions, offering the perfect blend of natural recreation and community conveniences. This blend of accessibility and proximity to a major recreational lake makes it an exceptionally appealing location for Michiganders seeking both outdoor adventure and comfort.

• Full Hookup Sites: West Houghton Lake Campground offers 128 partially wooded sites, with a significant number providing full hookups, including 50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections. This caters to all sizes of RVs, including big rigs (up to 60 feet).

• Tent Sites: While popular with RVs, the campground also accommodates tent campers, ensuring options for various camping preferences.

• Modern Bathrooms and Showers: The campground features modern and clean bathroom facilities with showers, a key amenity for comfortable camping, regardless of your setup.

• Propane Filling Station: A major convenience for RVers and campers, an on-site propane filling station makes it easy to refuel without having to leave the campground.

• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store is available for basic necessities, camping supplies, and perhaps even some local treats, ensuring campers can easily grab what they need.

• Dump Station: For RVers, a convenient dump station is provided for waste disposal, simplifying the departure process.

• Free Wireless Internet (WiFi): The campground offers free wireless internet access, allowing campers to stay connected if desired, or share their outdoor adventures with friends and family.

• Rustic Cabins: For those seeking a bit more comfort, the campground offers rustic cabins that include electricity for an outlet and a light, providing a cozy shelter option.

• Pet-Friendly: West Houghton Lake Campground is a pet-friendly establishment, welcoming furry family members (with rules typically requiring leashes and proper waste disposal).

• Open Year-Round: A significant advantage, the campground is open all year, allowing for seasonal camping experiences, from summer fun to fall foliage and winter sports.

• Direct Access to Houghton Lake Activities: Located directly across from a DNR boat launch on Houghton Lake, the campground provides immediate access to Michigan's largest inland lake. This is perfect for fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming, and jet skiing during the warmer months.

• Seasonal Camping Options: A major draw for many Michiganders, West Houghton Lake Campground offers yearly available sites for seasonal RVs. This creates a strong sense of community, with many campers having established decks, cabanas, and permanent setups, giving it a "feels like home" atmosphere.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The campground includes a playground for children, making it an excellent choice for families with kids. The overall atmosphere is designed to be welcoming to families.

• Diverse Site Options: With 128 partially wooded sites, including full hookups for big rigs and spaces for tents, the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences. The grass pads are a comfortable surface for tents and RVs alike.

• Winter Wonderland Access: Being open year-round, West Houghton Lake Campground is a fantastic base for winter activities. Houghton Lake transforms into a snowmobiler's dream with miles of groomed trails and is a hotspot for ice fishing, offering unique cold-weather adventures.

• Convenient On-Site Services: The availability of a camp store, propane filling station, and dump station within the campground adds immense convenience, minimizing the need for campers to leave the site for essential needs.

• Established and Well-Loved Destination: As a "Houghton Lake landmark," the campground has a long history and a loyal following. This contributes to a friendly and community-oriented atmosphere, particularly among the seasonal campers.

Address: 9371 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI 48629, USA

Phone: (989) 422-5130

Mobile Phone: +1 989-422-5130

Email: whlc2003@gmail.com (as listed on Pure Michigan)

West Houghton Lake Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Michigan locals, embodying the very essence of a family-friendly, year-round outdoor retreat in one of the state's most cherished recreational areas. Its enduring presence as a "Houghton Lake landmark" speaks volumes about its sustained quality and the loyalty it inspires among campers, many of whom consider it a second home.

For Michiganders, the campground's strategic location directly across from a DNR boat launch on Houghton Lake is a significant draw. This provides immediate and hassle-free access to Michigan's largest inland lake, opening up a world of fishing, boating, and water sports just steps from your campsite. Whether you own a boat or rent one, the convenience is unparalleled. The presence of full hookup sites, including 50-amp service, makes it an ideal choice for RV owners seeking modern comforts, while the availability of tent sites and rustic cabins ensures there’s an option for every type of camper.

What truly sets West Houghton Lake Campground apart for locals is its strong community feel, particularly among the seasonal campers. This creates a welcoming and familiar environment where friendships are forged and shared experiences abound. The on-site amenities, such as the camp store, propane filling station, and modern restrooms, significantly enhance the convenience of a long-term stay. Furthermore, its year-round operation allows Michiganders to enjoy Houghton Lake in all its seasonal glory, from summer fishing and swimming to fall colors and winter ice fishing and snowmobiling. West Houghton Lake Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a vibrant community and a perfectly equipped base for endless Michigan adventures, solidifying its place as a top choice for locals.

West Houghton Lake Campground

9371 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, MI 48629, USA