Southern Shores of Houghton Lake

Wake to glassy Houghton Lake sunrises and toast sunsets from the southern shore on a roomy double lot that’s made for families. Swim right off the dock, launch the kayaks at sunrise, and let the kids run in the big yard—this semi-private stretch of shoreline gives you space to actually unwind. Designed for large families and extended stays, we host up to 8 guests, with beds for up to 14 for flexible sleeping options. Four bedrooms and two full baths give everyone room to spread out. It’s perfect for families with kids who want easy lake swimming, room to roam, and a laid-back, semi-private spot that still keeps you close to Houghton Lake essentials!

Lake life, done right
Launch from your private dock, secure your boat to the mooring buoy (required; no tying to the dock), or slip out on the two kayaks for a sunrise paddle. Evenings mean s’mores around the lakeside fire pit and a big-sky star show! There’s ample parking for vehicles, trailers, and toys—bring the boat, snowmobiles, or ORVs and make the most of your lake time.

Cook, gather, unwind
A chef-ready kitchen (full cookware, bakeware, prep tools) plus coffee, and basic oils & spices makes meal easy. The open living/dining area lets the kids play while dinner simmers. Quality bed linens, fluffy bath towels, and a pack ’n play for little travelers make it simple to settle in. Fire up the propane Blackstone grill for outdoor cooking, then grill out on the deck and serve sunset dinners just steps from the lake! Adirondack chairs, towels, and s’mores sticks are stocked for lakeside lounging.

Four seasons of fun
In summer, spend your days boating, tubing, swimming off the dock, and exploring nearby trails and ORV/snowmobile routes. When the lake freezes, you’re in a prime spot for Houghton Lake’s winter fun: Tip-Up Town USA is just ~6 minutes (3 miles) away, with easy access to the DNR launch, ice fishing, and nearby trails. Spend the day on the ice or snow, then come back to warm drinks and movies while the snow falls outside.

Sleeps & layout (4BR / 2BA)
Four bedrooms, two full baths (one on each floor):
• Bedroom 1 (Main, 2nd Floor): King
• Bedroom 2 (2nd Floor): Queen + Twin bunk
• Bedroom 3 (2nd Floor): Queen + Twin-over-Full bunk
• Bedroom 4 (2nd Floor): Twin bunks + Double bunks
There are beds for up to 14, but for comfort and house rules we cap stays at 8 guests total (including day visitors). Two full baths make morning and bedtime routines easy for everyone.

Location & nearby
Walk or drive to everything you need:
• Close & convenient (2–10 mins / within 5 miles): Quick, no-stress access via M-55! Walmart, Starbucks, Public DNR Boat Launch, Spicer’s Boat City, Dairy Queen
• Fun nights & longer runs (10–25 mins / within 15 miles): Pines Theatre, Limberlost, Frog Tiki Bar & Restaurant, ORV trailhead
• Day trip destinations (20–90 mins): Grayling, Gaylord, West Branch, Traverse City, Petoskey, Mackinaw City

What’s provided
• Lake & outdoor gear: 2 kayaks with paddles, lakeside fire pit, Adirondack chairs, s’mores sticks, dock lounge chairs, beach towels, Blackstone grill (propane provided)
• Comfort & convenience: High-speed cable Wi-Fi, Smart TV, central AC, fully stocked kitchen, luxury bed linens and bath towels, basic oils & spices
• For families: Pack ’n play and plenty of bed options so everyone has a spot

Good to know
• Large yard on a double lot, with room for games and extra elbow room compared to typical cottage rows
• Parking: Up to 4 cars + 1 truck/trailer. Trailers may be parked to the side of the driveway to keep the drive clear.
• Lake & dock notes: Seawall shoreline with an ~80’ dock and end platform (installed approximately May 1–October 1). Water is usually about waist-deep at the end of the dock (varies with water levels). The sandy bottom and gentle depth drop-off make it easy for kids to wade and swim right off the dock while you watch from the chairs. Boats must tie up at the mooring buoy (no tying to the dock).
• Electronic lock for smooth self-check-in
• Guests provide their own firewood
• We give guests space but are available if you need anything

Book your Houghton Lake stay today—popular summer and fall weekends fill fast, and Tip-Up-Town, winter ski/ice-fishing getaways go quickly too!

Simple house rules & booking
• Standard rental agreement
• Refundable damage deposit handled securely through our booking platform
• Seamless self-check-in; arrival-day email includes directions and access
• Family-focused retreat only—no events, parties, reunions, or large gatherings
• No boat mooring to the dock – guests must use the provided boat mooring buoy
• Quiet hours: 10 pm
• No pets
• Max 14 guests total, including day visitors