Cedar Springs, Michigan sits at an elevation of 866 feet in Kent County, surrounded by a mix of hardwoods and pine forests. Several cabin camping options within 20 miles operate primarily from April through October, with most sites requiring reservations at least 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends. Winter temperatures can drop below 15°F, while summer averages 78-82°F during peak cabin camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Campers staying in cabins at Hoffmaster State Park Campground can explore over ten miles of trails across 1,200 acres. "The trails to dunes, beach, and other parks as well as dune preserve: all well-marked and vary in difficulty, weaving through pine and hardwood forests nestled among dunes," notes reviewer Shelly B.
River tubing options: Cabin guests at Salmon Run Campground & Vic's Canoes have direct access to multiple float trip options. "Towed tubes to a few places on the river and enjoyed a long 3 hour float and a shorter hour float," shares Margaret M., mentioning that their group "had four tents on our site with plenty of room, and a fire each night."
Beachfront activities: During summer months, many cabin campers take advantage of the swimming areas at local lakes. At Brower Park Campground, "There is a large swimming area, nice sandy beach along the swimming area, play grounds, everything is clean and well kept," according to Bethany S. The park also features "a trail head with a gorgeous trail along a smaller stream."
What campers like
Cabin variety and amenities: Visitors appreciate that cabin options range from rustic to fully equipped. At Wabasis Lake County Park, cabins face the lake, providing "wonderful early morning sunrises over the lake from the front porch of the cabins," according to ERolf P. The reviewer also notes that the park has "newly renovated showers and toilets."
Peaceful settings: Many cabin campers cite the natural surroundings as a major draw. At Scalley Lake Park Campground, one visitor describes it as an "amazing spot away from the city" where the "private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful."
Organized activities: Campgrounds near Cedar Springs often provide structured recreation beyond standard amenities. Reviewer Becky P. shared that at Duke Creek Campground, "Train rides, Pool, Scavenger hunt, trails, bike rides, there just weren't enough hours in the day!" She added, "The facilities were spotless, there is a store, gated entrance, nice shady lots, friendly staff."
What you should know
Reservation timing: For cabin camping near Cedar Springs, booking well in advance is essential during peak season. At popular locations like Wabasis Lake County Park, weekend reservations should be made 2-3 months ahead.
Off-season advantages: Visiting in September often means easier cabin availability while still enjoying warm weather. "During the school season it is relatively easy to get a spot, September then is a great time to go as it tends to still be warm," suggests Georgia H. about Hoffmaster State Park.
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations may experience road noise. At Cedar Springs RV Resort, one reviewer notes: "The highways a little closer then it looks, so you do get a lot of road noise. Especially when trucks hit the chatter bumps on the side. Not the worse thing in the world, but worth noting."
Seasonal challenges: Lake conditions vary throughout the season. Nicole C. warns about Mecosta Pines Campground: "The campground is overall really quiet during the week. Quite busy on the weekends but they are good about keeping quiet times."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-focused amenities: When booking cabin stays with children, prioritize campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "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," explains Kasey J. about Mecosta Pines Campground.
Consider weekday stays: For quieter family experiences in cabins, weekday reservations offer less crowded facilities. One visitor to Brower Park Campground suggests: "We camped during the week so many of the campground provided activities where not happening but many other outdoor activities to do."
Plan for weather fluctuations: Michigan weather can change rapidly, especially in spring and fall. Pack additional layers even for summer cabin stays. One camper noted about Hoffmaster State Park: "I came mid-May and it was very cold at night."
Tips from RVers
Site preferences: RVers who also use cabins recommend examining site maps carefully before booking. At Ed H. Henning Park, Mark K. notes, "This is a great place to camp. Clean bathrooms, camp sites, and friendly staff. Easy access to the Muskegon River and close to downtown Newago."
Facility access timing: Cabin campers should note that office hours vary significantly between campgrounds. At Wabasis Lake County Park, one visitor mentioned a "big mixup on Friday night that caused us not to be able to check-into our cabins" because "the office unexpectedly closed at 9:00 pm instead of at 10:30 pm."
Parking considerations: Many cabin locations have separate parking areas rather than at-site parking. "You do need a county park pass, $6/day until 10pm or $25/year," advises Amanda L. about Brower Park Campground, highlighting the additional fees beyond basic cabin rates.
