HIGGINS LAKE STATE PARK
Located on the north shore of Higgins Lake, the park has 174 modern campsites. Located on what was once the world's largest seedling nursery, the variety of tree, plant, bird and animal species make the park attractive for outdoor activities.
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the
MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
The Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center is located adjacent to the park. This educational center serves state and federal agencies, educational groups and other nonprofit organizations in a natural setting away from the distractions of home and the work place.
1. Higgins Lake State Park offers two sandy public beaches for swimming.
2. The South Shore beach is popular and often crowded during summer months.
3. North shore's smaller, quieter beach provides a more relaxed atmosphere for swimmers.
4. Lifeguards are not provided at either location; swim at your own risk policy applies here.
5. Both beaches have shallow areas suitable for children or inexperienced swimmers to enjoy safely.
6. Swimming hours typically run from 8 am until sunset daily in the summertime.
7. Picnic tables, grills and restroom facilities are available near both swimming locations.
8. Rental options like paddleboards or kayaks offer different ways to experience water activities on Higgins lake besides just swimming.
9. Alcohol consumption is prohibited within all designated bathing areas of the park.
The park offers two boat launches, one on each side of the lake. These are suitable for both motorized and non-motorized boats such as canoes or kayaks. Boat rentals including paddleboards, rowboats and pontoon boats are available at a concession stand near the South State Park beach area during summer months.
You can enjoy fishing in two main areas: South Higgins Lake and North Higgins Lake. Species include trout, pike, perch, smallmouth bass and walleye. Ice fishing is popular during winter months. Boat rentals are available for deep water angling experiences.
Higgins Lake State Park is located near Roscommon
Higgins Lake State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. Some spots have lake views, others are forested.
Eleven miles of marked hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails are adjacent to the park on state-forest managed land. The Upland Nature Trail includes a series of fitness stations.
Trails in the park:
North Higgins-Upland Nature Trail - 1.5 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski
North Higgins-Bosom Pines Trail - 3.8 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski
North Higgins-Beaver Creek Trail - 6.5 (Miles), Hiking, Cross Country Ski
In this Michigan location, biking enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of trails. However, caution is advised due to varying terrain.
The park offers several miles of multi-use paths suitable for cyclists but be aware that some areas may have heavy foot traffic.
Mountain bikers will find challenging routes with steep inclines and uneven surfaces; helmets are strongly recommended here.
For families or casual riders, there's an easy 3-mile loop trail offering scenic views - remember to ride slowly and safely!
Bike rentals aren't available on-site so ensure you bring your own equipment along with necessary safety gear like lights if riding late in the day.
Cyclists should respect all posted signs regarding bike use as well as other visitors by maintaining safe speeds at all times.
Remember: always stay hydrated during rides especially under hot weather conditions!
The Civilian Conservation Corps Museum documents the efforts to "put Americans back to work" during the Great Depression. The CCC enrolled more than 100,000 young Michigan men to perform a variety of a conservation and reforestation efforts. Between 1933 and 1942, the Michigan CCC planted 484 million trees, spend 140,000 days fighting forest fires and constructed 7,000 miles of truck trails, 504 bridges and 222 buildings. The DNR state park system still carries many examples of their work still in use today.
I-75 exit 244, turn left, W. 5 miles to park on left. US- 27 Military Rd. exit, go 1 mile E.