Camping cabins near Harrisville, Michigan provide access to Lake Huron's sandy shorelines and the region's mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during the day and cool to 55-60°F at night, while fall brings vibrant colors and temperatures between 45-65°F. The sandy soil throughout the area means most camping areas drain well after rain, though waterfront sites can sometimes be muddy during wet periods.
What to do
Beach combing and rock hunting: At Tawas Point State Park Campground, visitors can search for unique rocks along the shoreline. "Nice open area big enough to put our 8 person tent. Picnic table and power! The Lake Huron is a stones throw to the East. Great place, we will be back soon!!" reports Arron P.
Canoeing and kayaking: The AuSable River offers excellent paddling opportunities near cabin rentals. Ann K. at Alcona Park notes, "This is a great place to camp. I love that all the sites are in view of the ausable River."
Biking into town: Cabins at several parks allow easy access to nearby communities. Nikki M. from Harrisville State Park shares, "A lot to do nearby and it's just so fun there. Biking into town and there's a store with ice cream. Had a great time! Hit the Ausable river, and went to the damn store!"
Birdwatching: The region serves as a migratory path for many species. "This campground is an important stopping point for the migratory pattern of warblers in the spring, and has a very nice nature walk," explains Mark H. from Tawas Point State Park.
What campers like
Cabin locations: Some cabins offer spectacular waterfront views. At Port Crescent State Park Campground, Lee D. notes, "We were in site 56 and enjoyed listening to the waves lapping up against the shore."
Cabin options for every budget: From rustic to deluxe, the area has various accommodation styles. Cameron M. at Alcona Park shares, "Great campground if you're going to tent or camp in the cabin. I had cabin #3, very beautiful on the lake."
Clean facilities: Most parks maintain well-kept shower and bathroom facilities. Lauren V. from Tawas Point State Park describes it as a "Beautiful campground right on the shore of Lake Huron. Nice and clean bathrooms and showers."
Accessible activities: Family-friendly recreation options abound. A visitor to Old Orchard Park Campground shares, "Beautiful wooded sights. Fishing, boat ramp, beach, wagon rides, hearts, cabins great place."
What you should know
Cabin rental timing: Summer cabins fill quickly, especially waterfront units. "Probably one of the most popular state parks in Michigan, and for good reason. Most of the park is located on the water and the views are pretty gorgeous," notes Kate K. about Port Crescent State Park, adding, "Book early."
Bathhouse conditions vary: Facilities range from modern to rustic. At Oscoda-Tawas KOA, Cynthia K. reports, "Bathrooms & showers were great. Very clean."
Train noise: Some properties have nearby railroad tracks. Mari T. from Oscoda-Tawas KOA warns, "The only complaint I have of this is that there is an active train track that goes through the front of the campground at the entrance. It came through at about 1:30am when I stayed."
Cell service gaps: Many cabins lack reliable connectivity. A camper at Old Orchard Park mentions, "No Verizon cell service" in their review.
Weather considerations: Be prepared for quick changes in weather patterns. Timothy P. notes at Port Crescent State Park, "When storms come it, make sure you have everything put away and your tent staked down reeeeeal good, cause I've definitely seen 60mph+ winds."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several parks offer dedicated children's areas. Rachel S. from Old Orchard Park says, "I have been coming to this campground for many years. I bring my whole family! Very family and pet friendly. It has a playground and a small beach."
Kid-friendly beaches: Look for gradual water entry points. One camper at Sleeper State Park Campground notes, "Beach was a crazy close walk and really impressive. Even a pet friendly beach too. Camp host had fun activities for the kids (my kids claim this was the best time of the trip)."
Bicycle paths: Many parks feature paved paths for safe riding. Mark H. from Tawas Point describes "a paved pathway through the grounds to Rollerblade/bike on."
Ice cream proximity: Cabin stays often include trips for treats. Nikki M. mentions biking into town for ice cream near Harrisville State Park, while another camper notes, "Delicious hard ice cream served from the store" at Old Orchard Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: For cabin camping in RV areas, consider location carefully. Rachael D. from Harrisville State Park advises, "I originally booked 82 and it was extremely tiny for a tent site more suited for a RV. Be mindful when picking your site. Majority on the water side are tiny and are more suited for RV not a tent. I mean tiny!"
Utility hook-up placement: At some parks, services may require extensions. Tracey R. notes at Old Orchard Park, "Water and electric are poorly located. Need extra hose/cords."
Road access considerations: Some cabin areas have tight turns. About Port Crescent State Park, Lee D. cautions, "The access roads on the loop are narrow, so you may need to take some care of if you have a large vehicle."
Seasonal differences: Cabin availability and conditions change throughout the year. Tyler H. shares about Sleeper State Park, "Went later September on a Saturday and it was perfect. Good mix of tents and rv's. Everyone was respectful and the whole campground was pretty quiet despite being essentially full."
