Cabin camping near Dowling, Michigan offers access to a mix of forested areas and lake settings within Kalamazoo and Barry counties. The region sits at elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level, creating rolling terrain that's popular for hiking and mountain biking. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights dropping to the 50s even in July.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Fort Custer Recreation Area features extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels around multiple lakes. "We hiked on a multi-use trail that the ranger suggested. The blue trail goes around a couple lakes and was wonderful. We did miss a sign or two and ended up turning our 4 mile trip into a 6.5 mile one but there are plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the time," notes a camper at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Lake activities: Many cabin sites offer direct water access for fishing, swimming and boating. "They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake," reports a visitor at Michawana Campground. The campground provides free boat use when lifeguards are present.
Disc golf courses: Several parks maintain disc golf courses for visitors. Cold Brook County Park offers a course adjacent to its camping area. According to a camper, "Small county park. Lots of lake for small boating, kayaking. Fishing pier to fish off. Playground for the kids. Swimming beach with sand. Nice country setting yet close enough to towns if you need anything."
What campers like
Secluded cabin sites: While many campgrounds have relatively close quarters, some offer more isolated options. "We've stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!" reports a visitor at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Cabin amenities: Accommodations range from basic to well-equipped. At Welcome Woods Family Campground, visitors appreciate the cabin locations. "We have really enjoyed our late July stay. The amenities are really nice. The place was kept clean, and the clientele was friendly. There is a pond for catch and release fishing, and a great slip and slide for the kids on a hot day."
Night sky viewing: The limited light pollution provides stargazing opportunities from cabin sites. One Fort Custer visitor noted, "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky." This makes evening campfires more memorable, especially during meteor shower events.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals in the area have limited availability from spring through fall. According to visitors at Hidden Ridge RV Resort, "We camped at Hidden Ridge early in the season all the campers were very friendly. Lots of kids and dogs. You can rent golf carts by the day to play with in the campground."
Varying bathroom quality: Facilities differ significantly between parks. One camper at Michawana Campground stated, "I only dock one star because the bathrooms and showers are HORRID. At least the men's bathrooms are, smells so strongly of urine and they do not clean it regularly. Mildew is also all over the ceiling and the benches in the showers."
Insect preparation: Depending on season and rainfall, mosquitoes can be problematic. "Lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent," advises a Fort Custer camper. Early summer tends to have higher insect populations, particularly after rainy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Several campgrounds offer specialized children's programs. At TriPonds Family Camp Resort, "We stayed on their Halloween weekend and it was packed full of activities for the kids. Many people in the campground decorated their sites Halloween themed. Very cool."
Swimming options: Look for cabins near dedicated swimming areas with supervision. One visitor notes, "We've been camping here for 13 years. We love how kid and adult friendly it is and it's super clean! The lots are well spaced and we have never had a bad time here! Even when it rains!"
Playground accessibility: Consider cabin proximity to play areas. "What a great place to camp with friends and family. We've been going annually for 7 years. The owners/hosts are wonderful. They keep the place clean and looking beautiful. The atmosphere is so comfortable with very few mosquitos."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Most cabin areas share facilities with RV sections, so electrical capacity varies. A visitor at Tyler Creek notes, "Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT. Don't miss out on the great finishing and hiking. A great plus is still seeing kids rise actual bikes!"
Water and dump stations: Plan for potential lines at shared facilities during peak times. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long," mentions a Fort Custer visitor. Many cabins do not have individual water hookups, requiring trips to shared spigots.
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer both sunny and shaded options. "The sites are large, lots of old growth trees so you don't feel like you're in a parking lot," notes a Fort Custer camper. When booking, specify shade preferences as summer temperatures can reach the mid-80s.
