Cabin accommodations near Interlochen, Michigan range from bare-bones structures to more comfortable units with modest amenities. Located in the northwestern Lower Peninsula, the region sees average winter temperatures of 20°F and summer temperatures around 75°F. Access to many cabins requires advance planning as most facilities experience full occupancy from June through August.
What to do
Beach access: 45 minutes: Traverse City State Park Campground offers direct access to Grand Traverse Bay via a pedestrian bridge. "Super lively campground with lots of people and campsites close to each other. The airport is nearby as is the main road so don't expect much peace and quiet. If noise isn't an issue, this campground is clean, fun, and cozy! Bathrooms are all nearby," notes Aakifah A.
Explore downtown: 4 miles away: Stay connected to Traverse City while based at your cabin. "Frankfort is a few minutes away, which is a cute lakeside town with restaurants, shops, and parks. There is a large and clean beach there, a favorite among locals," shares Allison H. from Betsie River Campsite.
Winter activities: Year-round options: Some cabin facilities remain open through winter months. "The mini cabin had mini fridge, coffee pot, ceiling fan, and I think a heater for winter," observes a visitor to Traverse City State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private forest settings: Rustic Retreat provides secluded cabins for those seeking quiet. "Gorgeous property with a huge canopy of maple trees, lovely campfire spot and a cute cabin. Slept like a log," says Andrea D.
Access to trails: Many cabins connect to regional trail systems. "It's right on a bike path and close to the super cute town of Frankfort and easy access to Sleeping Bear Dunes," mentions Deb M. about Betsie River Campsite.
Evening activities: Northern Exposure Campground incorporates social events for cabin guests. "Nice little camp store and pizza restaurant on site. Great playground, evening activities. Nice mix of electric hook up, R.V. and tent sites," explains Anne G.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Cabin bathroom access ranges from primitive to modern. "Camp Squid provides more primitive cabin experiences with pit toilets and tent showers," while other locations offer more facilities. "Bathrooms are clean and we'll maintained," notes Edward C. about Duck Lake Campground at Interlochen State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin locations feature uneven terrain. "Be prepared to deal with sloping ground," warns Jonathan B. about Duck Lake Campground.
Seasonal availability: Most Interlochen-area cabins require early booking during peak months. "Expect the campground to be full on weekends, especially during the cherry and film festivals," cautions Annie C.
Tips for camping with families
Check swimming conditions: Duck Lake at Interlochen State Park has swimmer-friendly features but potential health concerns. "The beach here is ideal for children, staying very shallow out to the bouy markers for the swimming area," notes Edward C., though another camper mentions: "Beach is beautiful but has swimmers itch."
Consider noise levels: Some cabin areas maintain quiet hours while others cater to family activity. "This campground feels like campgrounds should! It is a small, family-run place. The sites are a little small and close together, and with fewer trees than I prefer," shares Debra O. about Betsie River Campsite.
Look for breakfast options: Some cabin facilities offer morning meal service. "There is a DELICIOUS little café serving up inexpensive, filling breakfasts each morning," mentions Allison H. about Betsie River Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: While cabins have fixed dimensions, RV sites near cabins vary in size. "Sites look level but it's deceiving," warns Sharon H. about Betsie River Campsite.
Electrical service variations: Check power availability when booking cabins or adjacent RV sites. "Some sites only have 20 amp service," notes Kristine E. about accommodations at Betsie River Campsite.
Seasonal amenities: Facilities change seasonally in cabins near Interlochen. "The campground is beginning to look its age. Stayed 4 nights while visiting the Traverse City area. Crowded with families making use of the last couple weeks before schools return. Rained well one night and our grass less site turned nasty," reports Rick G. about Duck Lake Campground.