The Perfect Weekend on Houghton Lake

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April 30th, 2025

The Perfect Weekend on Houghton Lake: RV-Friendly Campsites, Boating, and Local Eats

If you’ve got an RV in the driveway and a boat in storage, Houghton Lake is the kind of place that practically plans the weekend for you. Whether you’re after smooth waters, wooded campsites, or a meal with a view, Michigan’s largest inland lake has everything you need—plus that laid-back, up-north energy you can’t find anywhere else. And when your RV or boat is stored just off the water at Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage (833 Byron Avenue), you’re in the perfect position to launch your weekend with zero stress and max convenience. Here’s your guide to a full weekend on the lake—where to camp, where to launch, and where to relax after a long day of adventuring.

Friday: Arrival and Setup at a Top-Rated RV Campground

Your home base for the weekend starts with a great RV-friendly campsite—and Houghton Lake has several excellent options that offer full hookups, lake access, and peaceful surroundings. West Houghton Lake Campground is a popular spot for RVers thanks to its large pull-through sites, full water/electric/sewer hookups, and close proximity to the lake. It’s located at 9371 W Houghton Lake Dr, just minutes from the water and from town. You’ll have access to Wi-Fi, fire rings, a playground, and clean restroom facilities. It’s quiet, well-shaded, and close enough to launch your boat the next morning without driving far. Another solid option is pineview Highlands RV Resort offering both seasonal and short-term stays. It’s just off M-55 and provides easy access to the Pineview Highlands Golf Course if you want to squeeze in nine holes after setting up camp. After you’ve parked, leveled, and opened your awning, head into town for a quick bite. For casual comfort food with great lake views, Joe’s Coney Island on W Houghton Lake Dr offers classic burgers, chili dogs, and hand-cut fries. Simple, fast, and satisfying.

Saturday Morning: Launch Your Boat and Explore Houghton Lake

With 20,000 acres of water, Houghton Lake offers plenty of room to cruise, fish, or just float. Start your morning by launching from the Denton Township Public Boat Launch (via Old US-27, near Roscommon County Rd 100). It’s well-maintained, has ample parking for trailers, and gives you direct access to the eastern half of the lake. Another great option is the Houghton Lake West Shore Boat Launch on West Shore Drive—less busy and perfect for early risers. If fishing is on your itinerary, Houghton Lake is known for its excellent walleye, northern pike, and panfish. Locals often recommend trolling along the drop-offs on the north side or casting near weed lines off Long Point. Prefer a relaxing ride? Pack a cooler, bring the Bluetooth speaker, and head toward East Bay, a popular spot for social boaters to anchor, swim, and drift in the sunshine. Need fuel or gear? Lyman’s on the Lake offers a marina, bait shop, and dockside service, and it’s only a short cruise from the main launch areas.

Saturday Evening: Sunset Views and Local Dining

After a full day on the water, head back to shore, rinse off the lake, and make your way to Buccilli’s Pizza of Houghton Lake. This local staple (located at 2129 W Houghton Lake Dr) is famous for its handmade crust, hearty portions, and family-friendly vibes. Order the deluxe or meat lovers and pair it with a local Michigan beer. Looking for something more laid-back? The Limberlost Houghton Lake Bar & Grill sits right on the water at 4165 W Houghton Lake Dr. With boat docking available, you can even cruise in for dinner. It’s known for its perch baskets, live music on summer weekends, and full bar with plenty of Michigan brews on tap. As the sun sets over the lake, either kick back at the campsite with a campfire or take a twilight stroll through Trestle Park, just east of the lake. The wooden bridge and peaceful views make it a great end to the day.

Sunday: Coffee, One Last Adventure, and Easy Pack-Up

Start your Sunday slow with coffee and breakfast at Shaker’s Restaurant, a cozy local favorite at 615 W Houghton Lake Dr. Their breakfast skillet or pancakes will keep you fueled for the morning ahead. If you’re up for a little more adventure before heading out, take a detour to the Nason Lake Trailhead, part of the AuSable State Forest. It’s a short hike with easy access, perfect for stretching your legs before the drive home. By noon, it’s time to pack up. The beauty of storing your boat or RV just minutes from where you used it? You don’t have to haul it across counties. Drop it off at Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage, knowing it’s safe, secure, and ready for next time—whether that’s next weekend or next season.

Why Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage Is the Best Launch Point

Our facility is designed for the kind of weekends you just had—effortless, local, and built around the water. Located just a few minutes from public launch ramps, RV parks, and restaurants, we offer:

Spacious, drive-through units for large RVs and trailers
Boat storage options with 24/7 access
Fully fenced, gated, and secure facility
Local ownership and on-site support

Whether you’re coming up for the weekend or storing your gear long-term, Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage puts you right where you need to be: close to the water, close to camp, and far from stress.

Plan Your Weekend, We’ll Handle the Storage

Ready to make your own weekend itinerary on Houghton Lake? We’ll take care of the storage part so you can focus on the fun. Call us today or reserve your space online to get started.

Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage