Cabin camping options surround Gulliver, Michigan within a 30-mile radius, scattered throughout the Upper Peninsula's diverse terrain. The area features mixed hardwood forests with undulating elevation ranging between 600-750 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75°F with cooler nights around 50°F, while winter brings significant snowfall that impacts cabin access routes from December through March.
What to do
Beach access at Indian Lake: Located at Indian Lake State Park South Campground, visitors can enjoy shallow swimming areas ideal for families. "The beach was very nice with shallow, warm water. That was the highlight of this Campground," notes Emily M. The beach house provides additional amenities including "many picnic tables and seating. It seemed like a great place, not only for lunch, but for crafts or even a nap."
Kayaking the Manistique River: The river provides calm waters suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. At Northland Outfitters, guests can rent equipment on-site. "We canoed and our son kayaked the Manistique River. Shuttled up and paddled back to campground. About 3 1/2 hour trip. It was serene on the river," reports Janet V. who stayed at site #8 with a river view.
Explore Fayette Historic Ghost Town: Visitors at Fayette State Park Campground can walk through a preserved 19th-century iron smelting town. "When you camp here you can visit the townsite at night. I'm a photographer and I love the challenge of taking night pictures! I love the history here," shares Brianne M. The self-guided walking tours take approximately two hours to complete.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers consistently mention appreciating waterside camping spots. At Indian Lake State Park, Frances V. recommends to "Book a site that butts up to the lake for a great view. Make sure you bring bug spray however as the mosquitos were brutal in mid August." Sites along the water provide direct access for swimming and water activities.
Trail connections: Hikers enjoy direct access to nature paths from many campgrounds. Twelvemile Beach Campground provides immediate trail access to Pictured Rocks. "We love exploring the beach and hiking down the trails right from the campground. We enjoy the ranger programs that are offered, and the camp hosts are so friendly!!" says Mandi B. The North Country Trail runs directly through the campground.
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds often feature organized recreation. "The staff is friendly. They even do weekly events such as 'Traveling Trivia' for kids," reports Evan P. about Indian Lake State Park. Families appreciate when campgrounds offer structured activities alongside natural attractions.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: Most cabin rentals and campgrounds operate from May to October with limited winter options. The Jack Pine Lodge and Campground remains accessible year-round due to its location on snowmobile trails. According to Richie C., "I have traveled almost every corner of The Yoop. I have not found a campground (of the modern and resort nature) that nearly compares to this place."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, Hunter W. reports, "Quiet spot especially in early May, cell service with Verizon was shockingly good." However, at Jack Pine Lodge, visitors note "spotty phone service" despite having WiFi throughout the property.
Lake Superior weather impacts: Coastal campsites experience stronger winds and temperature fluctuations. Sammy S. warns about Twelvemile Beach Campground: "We were not prepared for Lake Superior gusts of winds. Literally had to put our kayaks on both sides of the tent. For people that can't laugh that off, as we did, do not stay right on the water."
Tips for camping with families
Consider shower accessibility: When camping with children, clean shower facilities become essential. At Indian Lake State Park, "The bathrooms were clean and the showers were free (and even had warm water)," reports Emily M. This becomes particularly important after swimming or hiking activities.
Look for playgrounds and recreation: Newberry Campground provides facilities specifically for children. "They have a playground, playroom and a pool. None of this was open during our visit but I imagine in the summer it is all going strong and the kids have a blast," notes a camper who visited late in the season.
Choose tent sites wisely: When tent camping with children, site selection matters. Carolyn K. recommends Indian Lake: "While this is a full amenities campground, one end was mostly reserved for tent camping with well spaced sites which were backed up by the woods. We felt right at home in our tent, and the campground was exceptionally well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site limitations: Many local campgrounds offer limited pull-through options. At Newberry Campground, Chris M. observed, "A lot of pull through sites, and a lot of different style of sites wooded and grassy. WiFi is a little spotty at the end of the campground but our jet pack works wonders out here."
Full-hookup options: For RVers requiring complete services, options exist but book early. According to Sean N., Log Cabin Resort and Campground provides "Big rig access (46' 5th wheel). Nice concrete pads, full hook up and cable. The staff is great and helpful. Secluded and quiet."
Generator-free areas available: Some campgrounds designate quiet zones. At Twelvemile Beach Campground, Roger W. notes, "Generators are allowed, but there is a generator free zone." This information helps RVers choose sites based on noise preferences and power needs.
