Cabin camping options around Gowen, Michigan span a 30-mile radius with several properties offering full amenities. The area sits within the Lower Peninsula's Flat River watershed at approximately 850 feet elevation. Winter temperatures average 20-30°F while summer highs typically reach 70-85°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Newaygo State Park Campground offers an 18-hole course popular with campers. "There's a decent pool, with a TON of rules. Free putt putt. Nice place for them to ride bikes," notes a visitor at Snow Lake Kampground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing areas exist around Hardy Pond with designated access points. "There is a fish cleaning station and lots of access to lots of water!! Also a nice place for kayaking. Water was calm, beaches were sandy, and firewood was plentiful," according to one camper at Brower Park Campground.
Equestrian trails: Some campgrounds connect to horse paths where riders can explore forested areas. "Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses," suggests a guest who visited Ionia State Recreation Area, which offers trails for both hikers and horseback riders.
River exploration: The Muskegon River provides paddling routes with boat launches available. "We enjoyed a reasonable trailride on horses thru a shallow part of the river. Very easy for inexperienced riders and kids," reports a camper from Double RR Ranch RV Resort.
What campers like
No-wake lakes: Several campgrounds feature motorboat-free lakes ideal for kayaking and swimming. "Private lake with no motors so it is very quiet and peaceful," mentions a reviewer about Scalley Lake Park Campground and Cabins.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous site sizes with natural buffers. "Sites are bigger than the other side and more private with more trees," notes a visitor to Newaygo State Park Campground about the Poplar camping area.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses receive regular maintenance at most properties. "The showers are actually nice and clean! The restrooms were surprisingly clean and modern as well," reports a camper about Brower Park Campground.
Weekend activities: Organized events occur regularly at family-oriented campgrounds. "Every weekend they have a theme. We stayed when they had the country western weekend. They had all kinds of stuff going on for kids. Pony rides, wagon rides, petting zoo, games and activities," explains a visitor to Snow Lake Kampground.
What you should know
Additional fees: County parks typically charge daily or annual vehicle permits. "You do need a county park pass, $6/day until 10pm or $25/year," notes a camper from Brower Park Campground.
No-pet policies: Some properties prohibit all animals, even in enclosed RVs. "No pets allowed-not even a cat that stays inside in your camper!" warns a visitor to School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground.
Rustic options: Several parks offer primitive camping with vault toilets and hand pumps. "No electric and pit toilets which are pretty clean!" explains a camper about the rustic camping experience at Newaygo State Park Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping accommodations in Gowen, Michigan operate from May through October due to weather conditions. "This campground used to be great. I don't know what happened I believe they have so many seasonal that they have become the bread and butter," observes one reviewer about changing dynamics at Snow Lake Kampground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach selection: Choose locations with gradual water entry for younger children. "Swim area is great... You can go 200 ft. out before it gets deep," explains a camper from Ed H. Henning Park.
Activity barns: Several campgrounds offer craft facilities with supervised projects. "There is a trail head with a gorgeous trail along a smaller stream and an art barn with activities for kids to create each day," mentions a visitor to Brower Park Campground.
Bike-friendly roads: Look for paved campground loops for safer cycling. "The drive is paved so we always bring bikes for the kiddos!" notes a camper from Newaygo State Park Campground.
Playground access: Most family-oriented properties include multiple play areas. "There is something for everyone here. Tent, camper, or RV and fun for all ages with everything from 3 playgrounds, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and tennis courts," reports a visitor about Brower Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: Some older campgrounds have awkward site configurations. "You almost need 2 lots if you have a trailer that's larger than 25 ft. Especially if you have slide outs," warns a visitor to School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground.
Seasonal camper dynamics: Long-term residents may impact atmosphere at some properties. "Us common folk are put in the back, which is fine, but the only golf carts allowed are seasonals, so they ride around and it almost feels like you're being gawked at," explains a visitor to Snow Lake Kampground.
Hookup variations: Water and electric connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp. Tent sites also have water and electric," notes a camper about the glamping facilities at Snow Lake Kampground.
Maneuvering space: Limited turning radius exists at some properties. "I wish we had gravel verses dirt though, during the rain it gets a bit muddy," mentions a visitor about the conditions at School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground.
