Cabin accommodations near Good Hart, Michigan provide direct access to the forested landscape of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula. Located along the northeastern shores of Lake Michigan, this region sits at elevations between 580-700 feet above sea level, creating cooler summer temperatures than southern Michigan. Winter cabin stays often experience lake effect snow accumulation of 80-100 inches annually, with cabins offering varying levels of winter insulation and heating.
What to do
Star gazing at designated parks: Wilderness State Park offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities, especially for astronomical events. "Best star gazing in the LP," notes visitor Ted B., while another camper recommends, "Sleeping on the beach during meteor shows" for optimal viewing experiences. The park opened a dark sky viewing area specifically for astronomical observation.
Beach exploration for unique stones: The shores near Petoskey State Park provide opportunities to collect distinctive fossilized coral formations. "The beach was so much fun. Crystal clear water, sugar sand, and tons of Petoskey stones if you know where to look," reports Laura B. The beach areas maintain a mix of sandy and rocky sections ideal for stone hunting.
Cycling on paved trails: The Petoskey KOA offers access to regional biking infrastructure. "Cycling dream trails," mentions Geri Lynn P., while another visitor notes, "There is a great paved biking trail located nearby that runs from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs." This trail system connects multiple lakeside communities and cabin rental areas.
Winter cross-country skiing: Trails around several cabin locations transform into cross-country skiing routes during winter months. Locals report Young State Park is "wonderful in the winter and great for cross-country skiing with trails that wind through wooded areas." Several cabin locations maintain plowed access roads during winter operation.
What campers like
Private water access: Campers at Wilderness State Park appreciate the secluded shoreline options. "Lots of sites and really beautiful water sites," notes Carla C. Amy G. adds that the park offers "true rustic sites, where you have to hike into, usually a little over a mile. If you want to get away into your own space, Wilderness has it."
Convenient ferry transportation: Cabins near Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA provide transportation options to nearby destinations. "They offer a free shuttle to mackinaw ferry. That was really helpful," reports Nicole P. Another visitor adds, "The ferry companies have free pick up at the KOA. The shuttle will take you directly to the ferry."
Cabin variety for different needs: The St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA offers multiple accommodation options. "Pet friendly has small dog enclosure at front as well as mini golf and playgrounds. Lots of trees and wooded areas to feel more remote without the driving," notes Krystiana H. Cabin options range from basic shelters to more equipped structures with furnishings.
Proximity to small towns: Cabins situated near Leelanau State Park provide access to local communities. "Close to Northport with cute shops," mentions Jami M. Another visitor adds, "Make sure you visit the small towns and wineries/cideries. There is a lot to do on this peninsula."
What you should know
Variable seasonal prices: Cabin rates fluctuate significantly between peak and off-season periods. At Camp Petosega, one visitor noted price inconsistency: "When we called he said the fees were $35 & $40. After we got set up he said the fee was $50! I asked why and he said because we are only staying one night!" Many locations require minimum stays during summer months.
Limited winter facilities: While some cabins operate year-round, services may be reduced in colder months. Winter cabin visitors should confirm which amenities remain operational. Some locations close shower facilities while maintaining basic cabin infrastructure.
Rustic conditions at some locations: The most remote cabins provide minimal amenities. At Wilderness State Park, Amy G. emphasizes the rustic nature: "They have true rustic sites, where you have to hike into, usually a little over a mile. If you want to get away into your own space, Wilderness has it." Visitors should prepare accordingly with appropriate supplies.
Reservation requirements: Booking windows vary by location. The Michigan DNR reservation system opens booking 6 months in advance for state park cabins, while county and private locations have different timeframes. Wilderness State Park cabins book particularly quickly during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beach access: Young State Park Campground offers excellent water features for children. "Great place for the whole family. Park ranger, crafts, and beach area for the kids," reports Jami M. Another visitor adds, "The park has a large beach area with a camp store/concession stand that has food and items for rent."
Halloween events: Several locations offer special fall programming. "We went during the Halloween party. Had lots of fun," shares Jenafer P. about Wilderness State Park. Another camper reports, "We were here for the halloween weekend. They did a great job with the trick or treating by shutting down all vehicle traffic and by having a site decorating contest."
Playground availability: Multiple cabin locations maintain play structures. At Magnus Park, a visitor notes, "A small children's play area is also adjacent to the bathhouse." Young State Park includes "Park ranger, crafts, and beach area for the kids. Very clean."
Cabin selection for families: Locations differ in family accommodation suitability. The Mackinaw City KOA offers "cozy little cabins of all different sizes," while Petoskey KOA provides larger family units. One visitor advises, "Since we were camping in the fall the pool was closed and there were plenty of back in sites available."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Petoskey RV Resort provides comprehensive RV amenities. "Cement pads at each site. Nice staff. Close to Petoskey," reports Tom M. Another RVer described it as "Country club camping at its best. Motor homes, 5r and Travel Trailers. Beautiful grounds were well maintained."
Site leveling challenges: Some locations require additional equipment for proper positioning. One RVer at Petoskey RV Resort noted, "Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn't level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers." Carrying extra leveling blocks is advised for most cabin and RV locations.
Winter RV options: Several campgrounds maintain winter operations with reduced services. Magnus Park operates seasonally, but nearby Camp Petosega offers year-round access, though with limited winter amenities. RVers should confirm which utilities remain active during cold weather periods.
Shared utilities at some locations: At St. Ignace-Mackinac Island KOA, one RVer noted an unusual arrangement: "The only weird thing about the sites was the water hook ups were shared (which is tough for a pull through) so we needed three hoses to hook up." Carrying extra-length connection equipment is recommended.