Forest camping near Houghton with wildlife watching

Enjoy creature comforts from lakeshore campsites or backcountry yurts when camping near Houghton.

99% (649 reviews)

United States
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Michigan
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Houghton

99% (649 reviews)

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Stories from the community

Emily

March 2025

With kids

2 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

We loved the beautiful hike in! The cabin had everything we needed and then some. Very comfortable! The sauna was lovely. Our kids ages 6 and 9 had so much fun! All instructions to get to the cabin and get settled were easy to follow.

Theresa

March 2025

3 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

We had such a beautiful stay here at the Copper Cabin. The snowshoe in was quite the trek with the recent snow, but having sleds and snowshoes available to use at basecamp were super helpful! Darryl and Linda were gracious hosts all throughout with great communication on how to access everything. Proximity to Mt. Bohemia was perfect. Went skiing at the end of the road in Copper Harbor and spent a lot of 'winter daydream' down-time watching snow fall at the cabin too. Will be back.

Julie

February 2025

2 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

This was a new winter adventure for my life long friend and skiing partner and me! There was ALOT of snow!!! It was like snow shoeing into Narnia! We were pleasantly surprised that the cabin was warm when we got there! The cabin was amazing, just as it looks in the pictures! We weren’t able to get the fire going in the sauna as we were unable to split the wood into small enough pieces. And we had some difficulty with the fire the first night due to the wood being wet, but once it got burning hot enough it was good and toasty! Overall it was a great winter adventure! We felt pretty accomplished that we were able to “Rough it” in the winter! We even had the pleasure of meeting Linda at Mt. Bohemia that week! The snow and skiing was Epic! Thank you Linda and Darryl for sharing this beautiful place!

Craig

February 2025

3 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

This is our 4th winter stay at the Eco-Extreme Cabin. Amazing snow this year in the Keweenaw Peninsula. Had some great XC skiiing and snowshoeing. A well-trod path through the snow to the cabin & easily accessed sleds to bring our food & gear in. Wood stove kept us cozy in the cabin and nice & warm in the loft at night (0 degrees outside, toasty in the loft). Everything was beautiful & peaceful. In spite of all of the snow (24" + on the ground when we arrived, another 10"+ fell during our stay), getting in & out & around is no problem. Roads & area where our car was parked were plowed repeatedly. Took in the spa at Mt Bohemia, & the sauna at Takka Superior on Lake Superior near Eagle Harbor. Always love to stop in at Keweenaw Coffee Works in Calumet. Can't wait for the next visit!!

Matt

February 2025

Weekend Trip to Ellens Cabin

We loved the cabin definitely a hike in the winter to get to. We pulled a sled behind us with our supplies definitely made it easier. Plenty of firewood and cooking pans and utensils so just bring your food & drinking water and you'll be golden. Peace and quiet and crisp fresh air very relaxing place to be highly recommend. Outhouse was adequate cabin has led lights from solar too worked great 👍

1 night at Constellation Farmstead

Met us at like 7:00 pm in pitch black with tons of snow to guide us to our campsite. Great hosts awesome place.

Weekend Trip to EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

Amazing cabin in the most beautiful location. The hike in to the cabin is gorgeous and makes the experience even more fun. We loved getting away to this amazing place, and we will be back!

Chuck

January 2025

5 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

This cabin is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What a wilderness gem this place is! Once there, I didn't want to leave and go back to "normal life".

9 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

My dog and I just came away from a 10-day stay at Linda and Darryl's Copper Cabin during a very snowy January. It was really quite special. You're tucked deep into the woods surrounded by evergreens and birches, about a mile from the road. It's off-grid, but thoughtfully designed--including an indoor composting toilet, which saved me from having to go outside in the middle of the night. Solar panels powered the lights and allowed me to charge my laptop. There's also a wood-burning fireplace and propane heater for staving off the cold, and a cozy upstairs sleeping loft with three double beds (linens provided), which was plenty warm. And while there's no shower, there is a sauna on the property with a cold tub (and a place to shower about 10 minutes down the road by car). My dog and I did have to mush a mile through the snow (up to my knees) from where we parked the car, but Linda and Darryl provide you with snowshoes and sleds for transporting your gear. While I wasn't always able to get cell service (T-mobile), if I really needed to communicate, I could pick up a bar or two of service not far from the cabin or use satellite. All in all, a special place with a built-in spirit of adventure.

Garrett

January 2025

3 nights at Ellens Cabin

We absolutely loved the cabin and it's personal touches. The history of it is very homey and welcoming and the location is absolutely beautiful we loved the mulligan and all it's features 100% would go again this year!

Ellmans

December 2024

4 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

This cabin is a fantastic getaway for anyone from solo trippers, to partners , to families. Linda and Darryl are amazing hosts that are incredibly accommodating. Linda met us after a long car travel during a snowy evening and not only provided use with everything we would need for the journey to the cabin but even accompanied us to the cabin to make sure we got settled in and to answer any questions we might have had. The cabin itself is two levels with the sleeping loft able to give 6 people space to sleep comfortably. The lower half of the cabin is delight of "older" aesthetics and necessities with some very welcome recent additions especially considering the cabin is off grid. Traveling over the Christmas holiday the vintage woodstove is a godsend in keeping the cabin warm and cozy. The vistas around the cabin and during the hike in are absolutely surreal at times and in the dead of night all you hear in the wind in the trees and nothing else. We're planning on coming again during the warmer months and viewing all of this in the summer landscapes. Please make the trip if you want and I can confidently say you won't be disappointed. Thank you again Linda and Darryl for sharing such a gem with the rest of us lucky enough to come see it, and take care from M. A. & PG.

Brandon

December 2024

3 nights at Ellens Cabin

The cabin was beautiful, as was the location and the view from the many windows. Victoria supplied plenty of drinking water and firewood for the stove. The cabin kitchen was stocked with all the utensils and cookware I needed to make good use of the propane range and oven. Directions to the cabin were crystal clear. We would happily stay again.

Dave

December 2024

Weekend Trip to EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

Such a neat spot for adventurous people. This was our second time, and we will be back.

Weekend Trip to EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

The copper cabin over thanksgiving was the Winter Wonderland experience that felt like a movie! The walk from the car wasnt bad at all and beautiful and quiet- our dog LOVED running around while we pulled the sleds and the cabin itself is as quaint as can be- thoughtful touches and genuine effort from Linda and Darryl make you feel right at home. We were toasty and warm and the solar panels held up great with power even half covered in snow since it was dumping all day. We would love to come back again for a peaceful escape

Matt

November 2024

4 nights at EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

Every year, my buddy and I schedule a "man week". Think of it as a testosterone-fueled vacation without the sunscreen commercials. Last year, we hauled in halibut on a charter out of Homer, AK, and this year, we swapped fish for deer during opening season in Michigan's UP. This cozy little cabin became our rugged HQ for five days. It’s the kind of place where the fireplace not only heats the room but your soul, and we enjoyed every minute of it. Rustic? Sure. Off-grid? Definitely. Gritty? Oh yeah. Exactly the kind of no-frills, woodsman vibe we were craving for this year’s adventure.

12 top forest campgrounds near Houghton with wildlife watching

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(175)

Bear Lake Meets da Yellow Dog

3 sites · Lodging13 acres · Marquette, MI

Your host property is 13 acres between the Yellow Dog River, and Bear Lake, with frontage on both. The Yellow Dog River is a legendary trout stream, and many artists have found that the river satisfies their need for the wild. There are two cabin sites available, One overlooking Bear Lake with sunset views, and the other a cabing that was moved to the property in 1999 to preserve it. Both sites share amenities such as the outhouse, communal fire pit and water, but the cabins are not in close proximity so everyone has their privacy. They are both rustic cabins having no running water, or electricity. A futon with mattress cover is provided in each cabin along with a table and chairs. See the individual site descriptions for more details. We are 20 miles (app) north of Marquette, which is my home town. It is a destination for bikers, skiiers, and outdoor rec folk! There are so many things to see and do in Marquette, so make sure to plan enough time to check out the town! Also, just six miles to our north is historic Big Bay. A lumber town back in the day, it is full of history. Check out the Thunder Bay Inn, where parts of Anatomy of a Murder, starring Jimmy Stewart and Lee Remick were filmed. Don't miss going to the Lumberjack to see where the actual murder took place, either! You will find good eats and perhaps even some live music at either establishment. You'll also find everything you need in the way of groceries, and gas at Cram's General Store, where there's also a laundromat. Burns landing just north of the marina has the historic Burns family home renovated in a park setting, and a public beach access to mighty Lake Superior. This park has picnic tables and grills, and even a handicap accessible outhouse and trail to the lake. Yellow Dog falls is a short drive on Co. Road 510, and on the way be sure to climb Thomas Rock overlook. There are new bike trails if you're into that as well! Stay awhile. You'll be glad you did! We strive to offer peace and serenity to our guests, and love to share these woods with those needing tranquility and respite from a busy world. In this sensitive environmental area, we have only two sites to keep traffic down, enhance our visitors experience, and to protect the wildlife here. Unplug with us, eh!

96%

(71)

Gentle Breeze Camping

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Toivola, MI

This is a private campground on Sandy Lake. Very quiet, private dock, sandy beach, great for fishing, kayaking or just relaxing. ATV's by approval, there will be no loud ATV's, no running ATV's other then entry and exit, if there are complaints from other campers you will be asked to leave New this year is a sauna with shower, this is an electric sauna , use will be by donation. Sauna is not part of base fee, additional cost for sauna Learn more about this land: Open fields and woods with lake access. There is a private dock with swimming, great for kayaking There is a near by public fishing site, 3 miles from General store from other lakes nearby with public access as well. We look forward to hosting you! We are located in Twin Lakes Michigan , 2.3miles south of M-26 on 29839 Pike Lake Road Very private setting There is no electricity on site Campers responsible for garbage removal There is now a outhouse toilet on site Enjoy the relief! There is a limit of 2 dogs per site, Dogs to be on leash if not friendly to people or other dogs IN PREVIOUS YEARS I OFFERED A FREE SITE IF YOU BOOKED 2 SITES THIS OFFER IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE

99%

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Superior Lake Effect

1 site · RV, Tent8 acres · Ontonagon, MI

Happy almost fall campers! So many views and so little time here in the western Upper Peninsula. Fall colors expected to peak first weekend October (as of 9/30/24)! Check out Porkies State Park chairlift rides 10/5, 6 and 12. 10 to 430 ET each day, 10$ plus recreational passport. Copper Peak also offers amazing views of fall colors. Open daily from 930-430 CT, check out copperpeak.net for pricing and details. Enjoy 400 ft of Lake Superior private sandy beach frontage with access to more than 1.5 miles., Beautiful sunsets, and a chance to witness the northern lights, in your private dark sky park; bring your telescope. Search for agates and yooper rocks; bring a black light. Situated on 8 acres of old growth forest, your short walk to the lake is through a park like preserve. Keep your eyes open for wildlife as you cross the boardwalk to the beach. Bring your kayak and or paddle board for a unique experience. A boat launch 1/2 mile away can easily accommodate 16 ft motor boats if fishing is of interest. Enjoy waterfalls? Bond, Agate, Bonanza, and O Kun-de kun and many more are all within an hour. ATV trails are abundant as well and all county roads allow both ATV and snowmobile traffic, with appropriate permits.

100%

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Medora Point

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Copper Harbor, MI

Welcome to Medora Point, a 6-acre peninsula nestled on picturesque Lake Medora. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, this secluded haven offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Lake Medora becomes your playground, offering an array of water-based activities for all ages. Whether you're into swimming, fishing, kayaking, sailing, or paddleboarding, the calm and pristine waters beckon you to dive in and embrace the great outdoors. Come, enjoy the beach, the stars, the nature, and relax.

97%

(31)

Hart's Trail Camp

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Calumet, MI

Located in wooden area with private pond for fishing. Connection to Trail 17/B for 4-Wheeling or hiking. Local shopping in Houghton and Calumet. Take a ride up to Copper Harbor to the end of Hwy 41 Nth. Check out Brockway Mountain views of Lake Superior and the beautiful forest. Come down Hwy M26 and check out The Jam Pot between Eagle Harbor and Eagle River for delicious bakery and jams. Address is : 52943 US HWY 41, Calumet, MI 49913 1-906-369-5009

Constellation Farmstead

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Pelkie, MI

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Constellation Farmstead. We are a multi-faceted agritourism destination combining farming, homesteading and leisure. We are located in a quaint and quiet area of the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We currently have camping space available both for tents and camping with an RV. For animals we currently have 3 pigs, 12 chickens, a handful of ducks and 8 of the softest rabbits you will ever meet. We also have a husky named Lakota who is always on leash with us as well as 2 cats, one of which spends much of his time outside. Our hiking trails are open, and markers are being added. You are welcome to hike through our property on your own or we are always happy to join. Our disc golf course will be open with t pads and baskets once the ground is firm enough to get everything set up! In the years to come, our beautiful barn will become a venue for weddings as well as a suite and rentable rooms where you can stay. We’ll also be continuing to grow our family farm, orchard and of course our growing array of animals for you to visit. For guests we also have a community fire pit in our yard and host fires most nights that we have guests. We also have a sauna that we heat up many nights so feel to let us know if these things interest you.

100%

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Rustic Farm Getaway

1 site · Tent40 acres · Calumet, MI

We live on 40 acres that are a mix of woods, open area, and farm land. We have a diverse mix of trees, wildlife, land to explore and a fruit and vegetable farm to tour. We have a pond where you can sit and listen to the frogs and watch the turtles, ducks and many other types of wildlife. We have wild apple trees to pick from and our property backs up to a trail where you can access town or other trail systems. We live up the road from Hungarian Falls, a beautiful preserve where you can hike, swim and view several waterfalls. We live about 7 minutes from Calumet. Calumet has a wonderful downtown and is also a part of the Keweenaw National Historic Park. Calumet is home to the Calumet Lions Park that has a disc golf course, nature trails and horseshoe pits, and Swedetown Recreation Area that has mountain bike and hiking trails. We are also about 2 minutes from the Calumet Golf Course. Calumet also has Calumet Township Waterworks park which has volleyball, basketball, places to picnic and is on the shores Lake Superior. If you head south we live within a half hour of Nara Nature Park, Michigan Tech Trails, Maasto Hiihto Trails, Portage Canal, and many other outdoor adventure sites. Mt. Bohemia is 40 minutes north and and Copper Harbor is just beyond that. Copper Harbor has many more options for outdoor adventures and stunning views of Lake Superior. Although we are close to several towns, we live in a secluded area with few neighbors so you feel like you have the place to yourself.

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Sunshine Motel Rustic Camping

3 sites · Tents60 acres · Ontonagon, MI

Escape to Nature at Sunshine Motel & Cabins’ Off-Grid Tent Campground Answer nature’s call with a getaway to Sunshine Motel & Cabins in Ontonagon, Michigan, where adventure meets tranquility at our rustic tent campground. Nestled behind our cozy cabins and up a gentle hill, discover three secluded dry tent sites designed for those who cherish the wilderness and an authentic off-grid experience. True Rustic Camping – Embrace the Wilderness Our campsites are a haven for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a genuine back-to-nature experience. These primitive sites offer: No electricity, running water, or restroom facilities. Essential camping with privacy and serenity at the forefront. Walk-Up Access – Preserve Natural Beauty To maintain the pristine condition of our environment, campsites are accessible by foot only. Vehicles are parked separately to ensure the least impact on the landscape. Site Features for a Comfortable Stay While embracing the simplicity of off-grid living, each campsite is equipped with: Individual fire pits for cozy evenings under the stars. Private picnic tables and communal seating areas for dining and socializing. BBQ grills for outdoor cooking adventures. Conveniently located trash receptacles to keep sites clean. Family-Friendly with Private Beach Access Spread out and relax in our spacious campsites, featuring a play area for children and exclusive access to a private beach—perfect for a peaceful day by the water. Explore the Surrounding Wilderness Located near some of Ontonagon’s top outdoor attractions, our campground offers easy access to scenic hiking trails, lakes, and rivers. A short drive brings you to local shops and cultural sights. Sunshine Motel & Cabins invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature at our off-grid tent campground. Whether you’re seeking solitude or adventure, find it here amid the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Book your stay today and step into a world where nature dictates the pace.

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Boundary Acres

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Chassell, MI

Learn more about this land: A quiet setting, nested amid tall pines and maples. Explore the pristine Pilgrim River Watershed trails just across the road from the campsite. This convenient location is only 10 minutes from Houghton and Michigan Tech.

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EcoXtreme Adventure Destination

1 site · Lodging34 acres · Delaware, MI

"It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that it makes life worth living." David AttenboroughWe've been about a greener lifestyle for decades--before green was "popular," before building tiny houses was the "trend," and before living a freer life off-the-grid was "a thing". Our mission is to provide an environmentally sustainable getaway where you will encounter off-the-grid living first hand for that unique experience. In the beautiful backdrop of the Keweenaw Peninsula of Upper Michigan (U.P.), we've built a sustainable, off-grid retreat where you can design your own personal EcoXtreme adventure. Enjoy this back-country timber- frame haven among a forest of birch and pine, next to the magical flow of the Montreal River, and surrounded by a cornucopia of recreational offerings. Extreme skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and scuba are just a few of the exploits available.

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The Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent30 acres · Baraga, MI

Private primitive camping on 30 wonderful acres of secluded land, on top of a valley overlooking Pine Creek. Very quiet, easily accessible by road. A ton of outdoor activities available nearby! Rock climbing at Silver Mountain, fishing at one of the many lakes, hiking to various waterfalls, tons of ATV trails, and so much more!

100%

(25)

Kismet Gardens

8 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Baraga Township, MI

This document will help guide you to my little woods: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vev2HVQtVbSa1xqIZhFDIWr9Yb4C_x2UBwXXXOBPNKo/edit?usp=sharing

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

86%

(7)

Ottawa National Forest

Watersmeet, Michigan

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping near Houghton with wildlife watching guide

Overview

If you're looking to experience the great outdoors near Houghton, Michigan, Hipcamp has over 200 camping options to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, staying in a cabin, or parking your RV, there's something for everyone. With top campsites like Heritage Hills (161 reviews), Firefly Camp and Sauna (67 reviews), and Blueberry fields campground (33 reviews), you can trust the reviews to help you find the perfect spot. And with amenities like toilets, cooking equipment, and showers, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable camping experience. Plus, you'll have plenty of activities to choose from, including snow sports, biking, and exploring historic sites. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors at a price as low as $15 per night!