aerial view of white and yellow boat on sea during daytime
Photo by Jonah Brown on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDock

Best Time to Visit

Houghton Lake North

Prudenville, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Houghton Lake North is a public boat ramp on Houghton Lake near Prudenville, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

Open at all times

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Houghton Lake North offers lake paddling on Houghton Lake in Michigan. Located near Prudenville.

Lake paddlers in Michigan will appreciate Houghton Lake North, which offers direct access to Houghton Lake and its surrounding waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock.

Located about 5 min from Prudenville, Houghton Lake North is a convenient option for Prudenville-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Houghton Lake North ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Houghton Lake North?
Houghton Lake North is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at Houghton Lake North?
Houghton Lake North supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Houghton Lake North?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Houghton Lake North?
The best time to paddle at Houghton Lake North is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Houghton Lake North?
Water conditions at Houghton Lake North include calm, sheltered.
Is Houghton Lake North good for beginners?
Yes, Houghton Lake North is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.3389, -84.6635

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Prudenville
Get Directions

44.3389, -84.6635

Best Paddling in Michigan

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Houghton Lake North

Sign In