Cabin camping options near Village of Clarkston, Michigan stretch across Oakland County with over 20 miles of trails and seven inland lakes in the surrounding recreation areas. Winter temperatures average 24°F while summer temperatures average 70°F, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences. Most cabin locations require a Michigan Recreation Passport for entry.
What to do
Kayaking on Proud Lake: Proud Lake Recreation Area offers paddling opportunities on the Huron River. "Great lake to kayak on. Trails to hike on! We will go again for sure!" notes camper Debra B. The park includes a boat launch and canoe/kayak livery on site.
Hiking through historic sites: The wooded trails at Highland State Recreation Area lead to remnants of the Ford family's 1930s summer home. "There's Haven Hill deep in the woods on a trail. It was the Ford family summer getaway spot back in the 1930's and was shockingly burned down by a fire! There's still many of the walls and a beautiful fireplace remains!" shares Adrienne C.
Mountain biking for all skill levels: The trail system at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area offers options for both beginners and advanced riders. "This is one of the best areas for hiking and biking and kayaking and swimming," reports Christine A. The park features dedicated mountain bike trails considered world-class by local riders.
What campers like
Secluded cabin sites: Many cabins offer significant privacy despite being in established campgrounds. "The sites aren't super far away from each other but there are trees between sites so from most of the sites you can't really see your neighbors," explains Sarah P. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Clean, modern bathhouses: Recent facility upgrades at many parks provide comfortable amenities. "The bathhouse is new and very nice," notes Stephanie C. about Proud Lake, while Brett B. comments on Highland State Recreation Area: "This rustic campground is obviously well-tended and has an almost magical feel to it."
Year-round cabin availability: Unlike tent camping, cabin options remain available through winter months. McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area maintains operations year-round. "We've state at this campground on and off for roughly 3 weeks staying mostly at the Cedar cabin but we also tent camped as well. The staff is amazing, the campground is well maintained and quiet," shares Stephanie H.
What you should know
Varying cabin locations and privacy: Some cabins sit directly on lakes while others require walks or drives. "The campground and stuff to do, are far apart. Bring a bike or drive. Beach is nice," advises Ethan R. about Holly Recreation Area.
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking through the Michigan DNR reservation system or county websites. Groveland Oaks County Park recommends reservations weeks in advance, especially for summer weekends and holidays.
Seasonal amenities schedule: While cabins operate year-round, amenities like beaches and rental services have limited seasons. "The campground has a large beach, boat rentals, bike paths plus a BMX area and several playgrounds. Most of the activities (IE beach and rentals) open Memorial Day," explains Carol W.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Clear Water Campgrounds offers unique family-friendly features. "A great place for the kids! With a beach, playground and paved roads is nice but the frosting in this cake is the petting zoo. Animals from bunnies, peacocks & cats to horses, goats and of course Milton the burro," shares Doug M.
Water features for kids: Many locations offer swimming beaches with designated child areas. "The park is clean. Beach is a 1.8 mile hike from the East loop in the campground but is well worth the walk. The water is clear and warm (perfect lake for swimming) and there is both sand and grassy areas on the fairly large beach," describes Mary H. about Pontiac Lake Recreation Area.
Seasonal activities: Parks organize special events throughout summer and fall. "It was a Boo Fest weekend. Lots of socially distanced activities for the kids and a scavenger hunt (finding clues on signs in park to solve a mystery)," notes Tim & Nancy C. about their stay at Addison Oaks County Park.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: At some parks, hookups may be distant from pads. "Depending where you set up your rig, you may need an extra long extension cord," advises Neil T.
Site levelness varies: Prepare for sloping sites with proper equipment. "Sites tend to slope towards Sand Lake so have leveling blocks if that's important to you," explains Edward C. about Seven Lakes State Park Campground.
Full hookup availability: Water and electrical service varies between parks and sometimes within the same park. "Nice campground. Paved sites. Some are pretty secluded. Downside is that the campground and stuff to do, are far apart," notes Ethan R. Cabins typically have electrical service but may lack water hookups inside.
