You’re driving up I-75, the cooler is rattling in the back, and you’re bracing for that first glimpse of blue. Everyone talks about Higgins Lake. They call it one of the most beautiful inland lakes in the world, and honestly, they aren’t lying. But there is a massive divide between the "North" people and the "South" people. If you’ve booked a spot at the South Higgins Lake State Park campground, you’ve already won.
It’s big. It’s loud in the summer. It’s busy. But it has the best water access in Roscommon County, period.
Most people pull into the park and get overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the place. With nearly 400 sites, it’s one of the largest in the Michigan State Park system. But size isn't just about crowds; it’s about the fact that you can almost always find a community here. Whether you’re hauling a 40-foot fifth wheel or pitching a tent that’s seen better days, this park absorbs everyone. The trick is knowing which loop to pick and why the "Marl Lake" side of the road is the secret weapon for hikers who hate the noise.
The Reality of the Campsites
Let’s be real for a second. If you’re looking for total wilderness and the sound of nothing but a loon at 2:00 AM, you might be in the wrong place during July. The South Higgins Lake State Park campground is a social hub. The sites are generally flat, but they vary wildly in terms of shade. Some are tucked under a dense canopy of hardwoods, while others are basically a sunny patch of grass where you’ll bake if you don't have an awning.
The ground is sandy. That’s Michigan for you.
One thing that surprises first-timers is the layout. You have the main campground which is right near the beach, and then you have the west side. The 100 and 200 loops feel like a village. You’ll see kids on bikes, smells of charcoal everywhere, and that specific "lake life" hum. If you want a bit more breathing room, look toward the higher numbered sites, though "privacy" is a relative term here. You’re going to see your neighbors. You’re probably going to hear their music. That’s the trade-off for being steps away from water that looks like the Caribbean.
Why the Water is Different Here
Higgins Lake is deep. It’s cold. It’s incredibly clear because it’s a spring-fed glacial lake. At the South State Park, you get a massive stretch of shoreline that stays shallow for a long way out. This is why families obsess over this spot. You can walk out 50 yards and still only be waist-deep.
The drop-off is legendary, though. You’re walking along on white sand, and suddenly, the floor falls away into a deep, navy blue abyss. It’s a bit chilling if you aren't expecting it.
Boaters love the south end because the boat launch is massive. It’s one of the busiest in the state, which can be a nightmare on a Saturday morning in August. If you’re launching a pontoon, get there early. Like, "before the sun is fully up" early. The park staff does a decent job of managing the chaos, but when the sun is out, everyone in Mid-Michigan wants their hull in that water.
Marl Lake: The Quiet Neighbor
Everyone forgets about Marl Lake. It’s technically part of the park, but it’s located across County Road 103. If the main South Higgins Lake State Park campground feels too frantic, you head over there.
There’s a 5.5-mile trail system that loops around Marl Lake. It’s swampier, sure, but the birdwatching is insane. You’ll see ospreys and maybe a bald eagle if you’re lucky. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after a day of dodging jet skis on the big lake. The trails are relatively easy—not much elevation—but they can get buggy. Bring the heavy-duty spray. Honestly, don't even try it in June without DEET.
The Logistics You’ll Actually Care About
The bathrooms. We have to talk about them.
Michigan DNR has been putting money into South Higgins. The modern toilet buildings are generally clean, but remember: 400 campsites. That is a lot of people using the showers. If you try to shower at 9:00 AM, you’re going to wait in line. Go at 3:00 PM when everyone else is at the beach. You’ll have all the hot water to yourself.
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- Electrical: Most sites have 20/30 amp service, but some of the newer upgrades offer 50 amp. Check the reservation map carefully.
- The Store: There is a concession store in the park. It has the basics—ice, firewood, ice cream.
- The Town: You’re only a short drive from Roscommon or Houghton Lake. If you forgot your leveling blocks or need a decent pizza, Houghton Lake is your best bet for big-box stores and actual restaurants.
One weird quirk? The "Old 27" vibe. This area feels like a time capsule of 1960s Michigan tourism, mixed with high-end lakefront estates. It’s a strange, beautiful blend.
Addressing the "Crowd" Issue
I’ve heard people complain that the South Higgins Lake State Park campground is just too "busy."
Is it? Yes. On the Fourth of July, it’s a zoo. But there’s a reason for that. It’s the energy. If you want a quiet, reflective experience where you ponder the universe in silence, come here in late September. The hardwoods turn vibrant oranges and reds, the lake turns a steel grey, and you’ll have the beach to yourself. The water is usually still warm enough for a quick dip in early September, too.
In the peak of summer, you have to embrace the chaos. It’s about the communal campfire, the kids making friends at the playground, and the sunset over the West Shore. The sunsets here are world-class. Because the park sits on the south/southeast side, you get that long, golden hour light hitting the water.
Essential Gear for South Higgins
Don't show up with just a tent and a sleeping bag. You need a few specific things to survive this specific terrain.
First, an outdoor rug. The sand is everywhere. It’s fine, powdery sand that will find its way into your bedding, your food, and your soul. A large polypropylene mat outside your camper door is the only defense.
Second, bring a kayak or a paddleboard. While the powerboats dominate the center of the lake, the shoreline at dawn is glass. Paddling out when the mist is still hanging over the water is the only time you’ll truly feel how big the lake is.
Third, extra long stakes. Again, the soil is sandy. Standard cheap plastic stakes will pull right out if a thunderstorm rolls through—and they do roll through frequently in the summer.
Final Insights for a Successful Trip
The South Higgins Lake State Park campground is a flagship for a reason. It offers a "quintessential" Michigan summer. It’s not a rugged wilderness experience; it’s a vacation.
If you’re planning a trip, keep these points in mind:
- Book early. The six-month window is no joke. If you want a site for July, you better be on the DNR reservation website the second it opens.
- Watch the wind. Higgins Lake can get "seas" on it. If the wind is kicking from the North, the south beach gets choppy and the water gets colder as the surface layers move.
- Respect the quiet hours. The rangers here actually patrol. They aren't mean, but they will shut down a loud party at 11:00 PM.
- Explore the Cut. There is a waterway called "The Cut" that connects Higgins to Houghton Lake. It’s a local favorite for fishing.
Before you head out, check your Recreation Passport status. You’ll need it on your vehicle to enter, and buying it at the gate is a hassle if there’s a line. Make sure your tires are aired up, your wheel bearings are greased, and you’ve got enough marshmallows. This park is a rite of passage for anyone who calls themselves a Michigan camper.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the Michigan DNR Reservation System for mid-week openings, which are much easier to snag than weekends.
- Download a topographical map of Marl Lake if you plan to hike; cell service can be spotty once you get deep into the treeline.
- Inspect your tent zippers and screen mesh; the mosquitoes near the wooded back-loop sites are notoriously persistent in early July.
- Measure your total rig length (including tow vehicle) accurately before booking, as some of the older loops have tight turns that are unforgiving to large trailers.