Cabin rentals near Onekama, Michigan provide direct access to the Manistee River and Lake Michigan shoreline. Most facilities operate seasonally from April through November, with the heaviest demand occurring between Memorial Day and Labor Day. While Orchard Beach State Park offers year-round cabin options, winter availability throughout the region remains limited due to seasonal closures and reduced services.
What to do
Fishing from private docks: Betsie River Campsite offers excellent fishing access with a dedicated cleaning station. "Betsie river runs behind the campground. Wildlife is present in area. Beautiful," notes one camper who enjoyed the riverside location.
Biking to nearby towns: Northern Exposure Campground provides direct trail access with minimal traffic. "Nice hiking trails nearby and a 20 minute drive to a whole lot of entertainment!" reports a visitor who appreciated the convenient location for exploring the surrounding area.
Snowshoeing winter trails: Pines Campground at Ludington State Park maintains year-round cabin access with winter recreation. "Winter camped in Pines Mini Cabin. Bunk beds with one a double- sleeps 5 total. Heat, electricity, mini fridge, microwave, table and 4 chairs. Well built and very clean. Awesome trails for hiking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing," explains a winter visitor who found the cabins well-equipped.
Beach access options: Several cabins offer indirect Lake Michigan access within a short drive. "The cute town of Manistee is nearby with three gorgeous public beaches, tasty restaurants, and ample shopping," mentions one camper about the amenities beyond Orchard Beach State Park Campground.
What campers like
Riverside cabin settings: Matson's Big Manistee River Campground features cabin sites with direct water views. "Tent sites are right on the river, they have a boat launch with rentals for boats, kayaks, and even a little fishing charter type deal if you'd like. Manistee river is very nice to kayak and go fishing," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Family-run operations: Smaller, independently operated cabin rentals often provide personalized service. "This campground feels like campgrounds should! It is a small, family-run place. They have several cute cabins and vintage campers sprinkled among the campsites that are available for rent," explains a Betsie River Campsite guest.
Off-grid experiences: Camp Squid Off The Grid provides more secluded cabin and yurt options. "Kendra and her team have created a unique glamping experience in northern Michigan. They have thoughtfully designed spaces that are comfortable and fun," reports a visitor who appreciated the rustic but comfortable accommodations.
Morning conveniences: Some locations offer unexpected amenities. "We loved the free coffee area in a morning," notes a Camp Squid visitor, while another mentions Betsie River's "nice camp store and little outdoor cafe are great and serve a delicious breakfast."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Cabin proximity differs dramatically between locations. "Spots are a little tight, but nice," notes a Ludington State Park visitor, while others mention properties with more isolation between units.
Winter accessibility limitations: Most cabin rentals close seasonally. Twin Oaks RV Campground operates from April through November, with limited off-season options elsewhere. "Kendra is planning to add further dwellings over the next year to make winter stays more possible," explains a Camp Squid visitor regarding future developments.
Cell service considerations: Coverage gaps exist in certain locations. "Biggest downfall was lack of cell service. Verizon and AT&T were slim to none in the campground. Had to drive into town for work," reports a Ludington State Park visitor.
Varying bathroom facilities: Twin Oaks RV Campground offers full facilities even at rustic sites. "This campground offers rustic sites and electric and water and can be enjoyed by tent campers and large RVs. I love the wooded rustic sites! Unlike State Forest campgrounds you get a rustic site with the benefit of hot showers!"
Tips for camping with families
Pack accordingly for cabin amenities: Most cabins require bringing your own bedding. "Mini cabin is at tip of park with nice view of lake Michigan sunsets. Cabin had mini fridge, coffee pot, ceiling fan, and I think a heater for winter. 2 sets of sturdy bunk beds," explains a visitor at Orchard Beach.
Consider cabins with recreation facilities: Northern Exposure Campground includes family-friendly amenities. "The campground offers clean facilities, general store, rentals for the lake, and camp events like movie night. With sites right on the water remember to bring your kayak!"
Book cabin reservations well ahead: Family-friendly cabins book quickly during summer months. "This is a very popular area/campground for fisherman," notes a Betsie River Campsite visitor, indicating the competition for accommodations during peak seasons.
Look for cabin locations with beach alternatives: When lake access is limited, find properties with alternative water features. "This campground is perfect for campers of most experience and age levels. Easy water access for very little children and non-motorized boats/Kayaks. Nicely equipped playground and evening activities at the Camp Store/Office on special weekends," reports a Northern Exposure guest.
Tips from RVers
Check cabin amenities before arrival: Comfort levels vary widely between properties. "Insta-Launch Campground offers excellent sites with electric and water hookups. They have a big camp shop, excellent ice cream, flush toilets, free showers, and coin laundry!" notes a visitor.
Consider parking logistics: Some cabin sites have limited vehicle space. "It was kinda tight getting camper into our campsite," mentions a visitor to Orchard Beach State Park, highlighting potential challenges for larger vehicles.
Plan for essential supplies: Certain cabin locations have limited shopping options. "Camp store was a very nice commodity and the the camp ground staff were VERY helpful and friendly," reports a visitor to Twin Oaks, noting the convenience of on-site purchasing options when staying in a cabin.
