Exploring the CCC Museum at North Higgins Lake: A Family-Friendly Stop Filled With Michigan History
Higgins Lake Nursery and CCC Museum
If you're camping at North Higgins Lake State Park—or even just passing through the Roscommon area—one stop I always recommend for families who love history is the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum. Located right next to the park entrance, this little gem is packed with stories, hands-on learning, and a real look at the hardworking men who helped shape Michigan’s forests, parks, and trails.
Ram Pump
It’s educational without feeling boring, outdoorsy without needing to commit to a full hike, and completely free. A perfect family outing for a laid-back afternoon.
And the best part? The museum is surrounded by some of the best kid-friendly trails and biking loops, plus an outdoor exercise challenge course, making it a double-win for active families. Here’s what to expect when you visit!
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Fire Tower at CCC
A Quick Background: Who Were the CCC?
The Civilian Conservation Corps was a program created during the Great Depression (1933–1942) to give young men jobs while restoring America’s natural spaces.
In Michigan, the CCC built:
Campgrounds
Fire towers
Hiking trails
Roads
State park buildings
Reforestation projects
Many structures at North Higgins Lake and surrounding parks still stand today because of their hard work. The museum brings this history to life in a way families—and especially kids—can appreciate.
What to Expect During Your Visit
1. Step Inside a Recreated CCC Camp Building
The museum feels like an authentic 1930s camp: bunk beds, work tools, uniforms, personal letters, photos, and more. It’s a simple walk-through, but surprisingly immersive.
2. Family-Friendly Displays & Hands-On Exhibits
Inside, you’ll find:
Short educational displays (perfect for kids’ attention spans)
Old forestry and firefighting tools
Maps and before/after conservation photos
Artifacts showing everyday CCC life
A short film or slideshow about the CCC in Michigan
It’s a great combination of visual, historical, and interactive learning.
3. Outdoor Grounds to Explore
The area outside the museum includes:
Old camp markers, signs and information stations
Large trees planted during CCC reforestation projects & plenty of open space for kids
Pair your museum visit with a mini outdoor walk right on-site.
Hours, Tours & Visiting Info
Seasonal Hours: Typically open May through October, Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (check for updates before visiting)
Admission: Free, donations welcome
Tours: Guided tours are available on select days and by appointment; volunteers are happy to answer questions and share stories
Parking: Small lot directly outside the museum
Accessibility: The museum is mostly accessible, though some outdoor areas have uneven terrain
Address: 11128 N. Higgins Lk. Dr., Roscommon, MI 48653
Phone: 989-348-6178
Tips for Visiting the CCC Museum
Plan 30–60 minutes inside, plus extra time for trails and the challenge course.
Bring a camera; the displays and recreated barracks make great teaching moments.
Stop here on rainy days—it’s a perfect indoor activity for kids.
Ask questions! Volunteers are very knowledgeable and love sharing stories.
Combine with a picnic or a swim at nearby North Higgins Lake.
Hiking, Biking & the Exercise Challenge Course
One of the best-kept secrets around the CCC Museum is how many family-friendly trails start close by. Whether you're looking for a low-key stroll or a longer biking adventure, there’s something for everyone.
Marl Lake Trails – Just Across the Road
A peaceful, woodsy set of trails looping around Marl Lake.
2.5-mile loop
3-mile loop option
Great for families, with mostly flat terrain and beautiful views.
North Higgins Lake Trail System
Right near the museum you’ll find access to:
Upland Nature Trail (1 mile)
Upland Loop Extension (3 additional miles)
Perfect for biking, walking, or jogging. Shaded paths, well-marked signs, and easy-to-moderate terrain make them ideal for families.
The Fitness Challenge Course
Just a short walk from the museum sits a fun, outdoor exercise challenge course, designed to mimic training elements used by CCC recruits. It includes: balance beams, climbing elements, pull-up stations, agility obstacles, and stretching boards. It’s a great way to let kids burn energy and adds an active component to your museum visit. When we camped at nearby North HIggins Lake State Park, we rode our bikes and did the challenge course.
Nearby Activities
Tons of adventures in the area, from swimming, off roading to geocaching and hiking. Here are the top 15 activities to do in the area.
North Higgins Lake State Park: swimming, sand volleyball, boating, and tubing
Marl Lake & Upland Trails: 2.5–4 miles of family-friendly hiking and biking
Exercise Challenge Course: outdoor climbing, balance, and agility stations
ORV Trails in St. Helen: 20–25 minutes away for off-road fun. St Helen has some of the most extensive trails in the state of Michigan.
Kayaking or Paddleboarding: calm lake waters for the whole family
Ice Cream & Dining: Nibbles Ice Cream, Roscommon Dairy Queen, Matt’s Lake Street Grill, Fred’s of Roscommon
Geocaching Head out on a modern day treasure hunt while you explore nature. The Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau has 30 hidden caches as part of the ORB GeoTour, located at trailheads, parks, memorials in the surrounding area.
Why Families Love It
The CCC Museum is the perfect mix of interesting history + outdoor adventure. You can explore the exhibits, walk trails, challenge the kids on the exercise course, and enjoy a full family-friendly outing—all within minutes of your campsite.
Final Thoughts
From the historic exhibits to the nearby trails and challenge course, the CCC Museum adds a meaningful and memorable experience to any North Higgins Lake trip. It’s simple, free, and surprisingly fun. If you’re in the area or camping next door at North Higgins Lake State Park, add the CCC Museum to your itinerary. Pin and Save for later and follow Discovering Anew for Michigan adventures.
