Van Riper State Park offers two distinct cabin options for visitors seeking shelter in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The modern campground features two mini-cabins with electricity, while more secluded cabin rentals can be found at nearby Craig Lake State Park Campground. Located near Lake Michigamme, these cabin accommodations provide varying levels of amenities, from basic shelter to more comfortable setups with power.
What to do
Swimming and beach activities: Van Riper State Park offers swimming options at Lake Michigamme with enhanced facilities. "Great waterfront improvement with a store, kayak and SUP rentals, and inflatable water feature to use for a fee," notes Rebecca B. about the beach area.
Hiking trails for all levels: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the Champion area, with many accessible directly from campsites. "Overlook hiking trail was awesome, minus the bugs!" mentions Jenny G. from Van Riper State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes around Champion provide excellent fishing conditions for multiple species. "Lake Michigamme offers lot's of activities for those visiting," writes Nona A., while another camper at Perkins Park & Campground mentions "Quite a few full hook up sites or camp with just electric. Lots of shade, a nice swimming beach, and great fishing."
Remote cabin experiences: For truly secluded cabin stays, Craig Lake State Park Campground provides rustic accommodations away from crowds. "The park has 2 rustic cabins and 2 yurts for rent that are a fantastic getaway and a great place to take your spouse," reports Jeff P.
What campers like
Family-friendly atmosphere: The cabin camping areas around Champion cater well to families with children. "My kids made some of their best memories ever camping here. Lots of families, positive environment. Clean campground and park, helpful staff. Swam and paddled on Lake Michigamme for hours," shares Jenny G. about her stay.
Recreational water features: Beyond natural swimming areas, some campgrounds offer additional water attractions. At Michigamme Shores Campground, visitors appreciate the "cool trampoline type thing in the water that kids loved playing on," according to Ashley W.
Spacious campground layouts: Many cabin and tent sites provide adequate space between neighbors. "Sites are large and clean! Even a park for the kids! We love it and its dog friendly to boot!!" notes Ashley S. about Van Riper State Park.
Winter accessibility: Some cabins remain available year-round, unlike seasonal tent camping. "The park features both a Modern and Rustic campgrounds along, with hiking, biking and ATV trails," explains Nona A., noting the park's four-season appeal.
What you should know
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds require visitors to bring their own drinking water. "Rumors are that they have had trouble with 'kids' taking things from camps during this night so they warn folks to put things away at night, and noise issues, but we did not have any problems at all. There are restrictions on their drinking water so you need to haul in your own drinking water," advises Andrea B. about her stay.
Reservation requirements: Cabin rentals fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Rippling Rivers RV Resort, "Large sites overall. Very clean bathroom. Nice pool/hot tub and a small bar (wine/beer) at the front reception area, with public fire pit," reports Lisa D.
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have spotty connectivity. "Beautiful, peaceful, place," Rebecca W. notes about Craig Lake State Park, highlighting its remote nature.
Wildlife encounters: Cabins in the Champion area offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. "The wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others," writes Jeff P. about Craig Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach amenities for kids: Look for campgrounds with child-friendly water features. "They have a cool water toy park," notes Steve S. about Country Village RV Park, which offers "a pool, hot tub & bouncy pillow" according to Jessica P.
Playground access: Several cabin locations offer playground facilities. "Huge playground. Overlook hiking trail was awesome, minus the bugs!" mentions Jenny G. about the recreation options.
Family celebration spaces: Some campgrounds accommodate family gatherings. "Had my son's 6th birthday party here. We were able to grill our food at our camp site then brought it over closer to the beach where we set up in the grassy area," shares Ashley L. about her experience at Van Riper State Park.
Bug preparation: Pack appropriate insect repellent, especially for evening activities. "It is the UP plan on cooler weather," reminds Andrea B., noting the sometimes challenging conditions.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Not all cabin campgrounds offer complete RV services. "The full hookup sites were nice and long and well spaced, but they were dirt so could be muddy in the rain. There were a lot of mosquitoes, but we kept them at bay with tiki torches and bug spray," notes Greg S. about Perkins Park & Campground.
Site positioning considerations: When booking, inquire about site levelness and location. "Our site did have a nice shade tree on the patio which was welcomed because of the hot weather," observes Nancy W., emphasizing the importance of shade.
Supply planning: Stock up on essentials before arriving. "A short drive to Marquette which is worth a visit," suggests Nancy W. from Country Village RV Park, referring to the nearest substantial shopping area.
Road conditions: Access roads to some cabin areas may be challenging. Rebecca W. warns about Craig Lake State Park: "Do not recommend coming or going from the access road on the west... it's a VERY bumpy road, and my cockiness convinced myself I could do it in my truck, but didn't get very far."