Cabin camping near Evart, Michigan offers access to the Muskegon River, which stretches 216 miles through central Michigan's sandy terrain. The region experiences warm summers with temperatures typically reaching 80°F and cool fall nights that drop into the 40s. Most cabin accommodations in the area are situated within family-oriented campgrounds that balance rustic settings with varying levels of modern conveniences.
What to do
Kayak the Muskegon River: Both Paris Park and Old Log Resort and Campground offer kayak rentals with transportation service. "The park offers tubes and transportation as well. The river is great for kayaking, canoeing and tubing" according to Jamie D. At Old Log Resort, their system is especially convenient as "they also do kyak rentals, with drop off and you boat back to their own landing," notes Dj W.
Explore biking trails: The area connects to extensive trail systems perfect for family cycling. "The park sits on both the Muskegon River and a Rails to Trails system. The trail stretches from Grand Rapids to Reed City and continues beyond that unpaved. It also links to a long East to west trail in Reed City," mentions Jamie D. from Paris Park.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing opportunities, especially at Brower Park Campground. "Perfect place to do some fishing since they have a fish cleaning station and lots of access to lots of water! Also a nice place for kayaking," writes Amanda L., though she notes "it would be nice" to have a fish cleaning station closer to the river.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Countryside Campground & Cabins consistently receives praise for cleanliness. "This is the CLEANEST campground I have ever been to. Seriously not 1 cigarette but or candy wrapper on my site when I arrived. Picnic tables are freshly washed," reports Tracey L. Another camper adds, "Bathrooms are clean & well maintained."
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate the organized activities at several campgrounds. Countryside Campground offers "activities for the kids, a playground, heated pool, hiking/bike trail, and even a baseball field," according to Megan W. At CranHill, "Kids loved the pony rides and we enjoyed trail rides. Boat rentals are available. Kids loved crafts they had available," says Cassondra P.
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments that campers value. Bluegill Lake Family Camping Resort stands out in this regard: "This is a family campground and the quietest park I have ever stayed in," notes Al K., adding that "Most sites shaded. Dirt and/or grass. Clean restrooms."
What you should know
Varying pet policies: Some campgrounds strictly prohibit pets. School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground enforces a "No pets allowed-not even a cat that stays inside in your camper!" according to Bobbi Jo K.
Additional fees: Budget for extra charges beyond base camping rates. School Section Lake has "a $7 a day fee for out of the county. Even when you arrive late at night," reports Bobbi Jo K. At Brower Park, "You will need to pay either a $7 daily or $30 annual fee for your boat but kayaks and canoes are free," according to Joshua E.
Site limitations: Many campgrounds have small or challenging sites. School Section Lake has "small lots" where "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs," warns Jordyn W. Similarly, Countryside Campground notes "the sites are a little cramped, but part of the fun of camping in a campground like this one is meeting the neighbors."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Brower Park Campground offers excellent swimming areas. "Swim area is great... You can go 200 ft. out before it gets deep," notes Dave B. Another camper adds, "There is a fairly large swimming area. The showers are actually nice and clean!"
Entertainment options: Many campgrounds provide planned activities for children. Countryside Campground "Offered hay rides Saturday evening" and "Had a foam party (my 5 year old loved this)," according to Emily W. Brower Park offers "Hayrides and movies on the weekend," says Dave B.
Play spaces: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreational facilities. Brower Park features "3 playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and tennis courts, to a boat launch, fishing pier, and fish cleaning station," says Amanda L., adding that "Kids are riding their bikes all over, fishing, playing at playgrounds, the beach, everywhere."
Tips from RVers
Site selection help: At Cadillac Woods Campground, "While you can book online, I would call the office and talk to the owners because not all sites are easy to maneuver a camper into and may not be a good choice for your size camper," advises Erika W.
Terrain considerations: Be prepared for potential mud issues at some campgrounds. At School Section Lake, one camper mentions "We had plenty of space, very good water, and full hook up. I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy."
Campground layout: At Cadillac Woods Campground, "There are a lot of trees but the new owners have worked hard to make sure the sites are cleared enough to park in," notes Curtis S., adding that "The pull through sites were great for the two 28' fifth wheels and 30 ft bumper pull in our group."
