Cabins near Bellevue, Michigan provide access to over 5,000 acres of woodland and lake habitat across Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties. The region features several interconnected lakes and sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level, creating mild summer temperatures that typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter cabin options remain available at select locations where temperatures can drop below 20°F, making wood stoves particularly valuable for off-season stays.
What to do
Hiking trails and lake access: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers extensive multi-use trails circling several no-wake lakes. "We hiked on a multi-use trail that the ranger suggested. The blue trail goes around a couple lakes and was wonderful... there are plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the time," notes a visitor who recommends exploring this 3,000-acre park.
Mountain biking: Fort Custer Recreation Area maintains dedicated mountain bike trails separate from hiking paths. A repeat visitor mentions, "We camped and rode (again) at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before (once in a cabin and once in tents) and this has now officially become a favorite."
Fishing opportunities: Cold Brook County Park provides access to productive fishing waters with a dedicated pier. According to reviews, the park offers "fishing pier and boating, playground area, and beach" making it suitable for various water activities. Multiple lakes in the region support bass and panfish populations.
Disc golf course: Several parks in the area maintain disc golf courses for visitors. Cold Brook County Park features "disc golf, fishing, playground for kids" according to a camper who rated the facility highly. The course layout accommodates various skill levels with both wooded and open fairways.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Michawana Campground offers secluded camping areas with natural buffers. A visitor mentioned, "We got site 36. We put our tent up on the hill tucked back up in the woods. Shade from the start!" The campground's layout preserves natural vegetation between sites.
Family-friendly amenities: Camp Michawana provides numerous recreational options. "This campsite is perfect for children! They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall," reports a visitor who appreciated the diverse activities.
Clean facilities: Welcome Woods Family Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms and common areas. A visitor noted, "Clean bathrooms by the store, pit toilets throughout the campground." Regular maintenance schedules keep shower buildings and vault toilets sanitary even during peak season.
Lake access for boating: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. A Michawana visitor mentioned, "Beautiful large sites on a lake," while another camper at Welcome Woods appreciated that "They offer both rustic and water and electric sites...They also have a dock you can rent space and keep your boat in the lake."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. At Tyler Creek, a visitor advised making reservations well ahead of time, noting "Had a reservation for 6 months" for their planned stay.
Variable electrical hookups: Power connections differ significantly between sites. At Sleepy Hollow State Park, "Most electrical posts are designed to accommodate at least 2 adjoining lots, and as many as 4. This in itself is not a concern until you realize the posts are way too far away to reach without an extension."
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities range from recently renovated to needing maintenance. A Tyler Creek visitor noted, "Bathrooms were newly redone. Looking allot better then previous years," while another said at a different park, "Bathrooms are in terrible shape. They need major repairs."
Seasonal operation: Most parks close between late October and mid-April. Welcome Woods Family Campground operates "May 1 - Oct 15" according to their official season, while Camp Michawana runs from "April 21 to October 16." Plan accordingly if seeking off-season accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused activities: Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground offers family programming throughout summer. "Every year they put together an awesome Halloween trick or treat weekend, but be sure to book the day of six months before because otherwise you will not get a site," advises a regular visitor.
Beach and playground access: Multiple parks feature dedicated swimming areas and play equipment. A Welcome Woods visitor noted, "They offer both rustic and water and electric sites...close to home but feels 'up north'. This is a family campground and my kids loved the playground!"
Rental equipment: Several locations provide boats and sports equipment. Camp Michawana offers "kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake" according to a visitor, while others mentioned free fishing rods available for use at certain parks.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic in wooded areas, particularly in early summer. A Fort Custer visitor warned, "lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent." Mosquito activity increases near wooded water edges throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Bring extra-long power cords for electrical connections. A Sleepy Hollow camper noted, "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring blocks or levelers. A visitor to Tyler Creek mentioned, "Lots of lot improvement so it's not so bumpy and off level," indicating ongoing work to address this common issue at older campgrounds.
Dump station timing: Plan for potential wait times at shared facilities. A Fort Custer visitor cautioned, "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long." Morning checkout times typically create the longest lines at dump stations.
