Camping cabins near Big Rapids, Michigan provide lakeside and riverside accommodations across Mecosta and Newaygo counties. Located in central Michigan where the Muskegon River winds through rolling woodlands, this region experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 80°F and cooler fall camping seasons with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s by October. Water recreation dominates the camping landscape with most cabin sites situated near fishing waters.
What to do
River activities on the Muskegon: Multiple campgrounds rent kayaks, canoes and tubes for river trips. River Country Campground and Livery provides shuttle service to drop-off points. "You're able to rent a tube, kayak or canoe to cruise down the Muskegon River. They were kind enough to shuttle us to the drop off point a couple of miles away," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: The Dragon Trail runs 47 miles around Hardy Pond with access from several campgrounds. At Brower Park Campground, "There is a trail head with a gorgeous trail along a smaller stream." Another camper adds, "The park is right next to the Dragon Trail, a hiking and mountain biking trail that runs 47 miles round Hardy Pond. There is a short loop called the Brower Park Loop that has some amazing views."
Fishing spots: Multiple locations offer fishing piers, boat launches, and fish cleaning stations. "Perfect place to do some fishing since they have a fish cleaning station and lots of access to lots of water," reports a Brower Park visitor.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Many cabin campers appreciate modern bathroom amenities. At Sandy Beach County Park, "Bathrooms are kept up well, individual shower rooms are nice. They do have a washer and dry for longer stays but only one unit so you may have to wait awhile."
Swimming areas: Several parks maintain designated swimming beaches. "This campground is on the beautiful muskegon river, it has a large swimming area, nice sandy beach along the swimming area," shares a Brower Park visitor. Another camper at School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground notes, "Very nice camp with an awesome lake and great swimming area! Kids love this park!"
Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular family events. At Brower Park, "Hayrides and movies on the weekend" provide entertainment options. Mecosta Pines offers "Amenities are amazing" according to one reviewer.
What you should know
Site size varies: Cabin sites range from spacious to compact. At School Section Lake, "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs." Another camper noted, "Was a decent place to camp- lots are very close though!"
Fee structure: County parks charge daily or annual entrance fees beyond cabin rental costs. "You do need a county park pass, $6/day until 10pm or $25/year" at Brower Park. At School Section Lake, "there is a $7 a day fee for out of the county."
Pet policies: Rules vary significantly between parks. Mecosta Pines Campground allows pets, with one visitor noting "Pets are allowed." In contrast, School Section Lake prohibits all pets: "No pets allowed-not even a cat that stays inside in your camper!"
Seasonal availability: Most cabins close by late October. "Our site was a back in with not a lot of maneuvering room but even though some may feel these sites are small, we had plenty of space, very good water, and full hook up. I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy," shares a School Section Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites near play areas for convenience. At Mecosta Pines, "We initially booked a site by the river, but once we saw the sites next to the playground, we knew we had to switch for our sanity and so our toddler could play."
Kid-friendly activities: Many parks offer organized children's programs. Paris Park has unique attractions: "The park is connected to a fish hatchery where kid can feed fish, ducks and geese. It is full of history and boasts a minuture Eiffel tower."
Swimming safety: Water depths vary between parks. At Brower Park, "Swim area is great... You can go 200 ft. out before it gets deep..." This makes it suitable for younger children learning to swim.
Insect protection: Wooded cabin sites often have more mosquitoes. A School Section Lake visitor advises, "Make sure you bring insect repellent!"
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Most cabin sites include electric hookups, but configurations vary. At CranHill, "Sites are mostly dirt with pine needles but some are grassy."
Laundry access: Limited facilities exist for longer stays. Sandy Beach County Park has "a washer and dry for longer stays but only one unit so you may have to wait awhile."
Midweek vs. weekend stays: Quieter experiences often come during weekdays. "The campground is overall really quiet during the week. Quite busy on the weekends but they are good about keeping quiet times," notes a Mecosta Pines visitor.
Seasonal weather considerations: Fall camping requires preparation for mud. "I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy," reports a School Section Lake camper about their site conditions.
