Cabin camping near Jonesville, Michigan provides access to the Irish Hills region, with over 20 lakes within a 10-mile radius and elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet. Water recreation dominates the area, with multiple campgrounds offering direct lake access. Most cabins remain open from April through October, though some state park facilities maintain year-round availability.
What to do
Toboggan runs in winter: Pokagon State Park Campground maintains a popular winter attraction just 45 minutes from Jonesville. "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc. Tons of picnic areas and pavilions; would be a great spot for a family reunion," notes Amy K.
Kayaking on no-wake lakes: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers peaceful paddling opportunities on several no-wake lakes. "Michigan State park with large sites and lots of privacy. $25 per night with electric. Several no wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. One lake with swimming beach. Lots of trails for hiking, horses and mountain bikes," reports Janet N.
Dark sky stargazing: Lake Hudson Recreation Area is designated as a dark sky preserve, perfect for stargazing during cabin stays. "The best part of this campground is the stars at night! This is a dark sky preserve campground and the stars are the show. We stayed here at the end of the perseid meteor showers and saw several falling meteors," says Michelle M.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Lake Hudson Recreation Area cabins offer significant privacy compared to other options. "Almost all sites are separated by thick trees. 11 are on the lake side with trails thru woods to lake. Swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, sand beaches & more on a good size lake with tons of inlets & curvy shorelines," explains Cheryl M.
Kid-friendly amenities: Gateway Park Campground provides numerous activities specifically designed for children. "They have a lot for the kids here: Pool 3ft-5ft, Air pillow, Large playground (very clean), Half basketball court, Sand Volleyball net, Rec room (small amount of games), Crafts on weekends, Corn hole boards -2 sets by pillow, Horse shoe pits - 2 sets by pillow," details Melissa M.
Lakefront cabin options: W.J. Hayes State Park Campground offers water access and multiple lakes within the property. "I've always loved going to this campground growing up. It has access to Wamplers Lake and there are several other lakes near by. The area is quiet and clean," shares Annie G.
What you should know
Cabin amenities vary significantly: Electricity is standard at most cabins, but water and bathroom facilities differ greatly. At Lake Hudson Recreation Area, "There are no water or sewer hook ups here. You do have access to drinking water, and there is non-flushing toilet (like a port-o-potty). There are also 30 amp electrical boxes if you want to plug something in," explains Meghan R.
Reservation timing matters: Peak season cabins book quickly, especially waterfront options. "It's a drive but well worth no shower rustic Campground only," notes Erika N. about Lake Hudson Recreation Area, where weekends fill months in advance.
Bring your own water: Some rustic cabins require self-sufficiency. "You must bring your water unless you want to hand pump it from the only central pump," advises Bob J. about Lake Hudson Recreation Area cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment for rainy days: Weather can be unpredictable in the region. At Harrison Lake State Park, "We stopped here for a night on our cross-country trip, wish we had 2 nights because we had lots of thunderstorms. We camped in our teardrop on the primitive tent loop. Sites were nice and secluded where we were, but you could hear a few late night partiers nearby. Tons of things to do (playgrounds, lake, beach, hiking, horseback and pony rides etc)," shares Anand.
Choose sites strategically: Site selection impacts your experience, especially with children. "Hayes State Park is a great little spot in the Irish Hills. Our site was the perfect spot for two tents and a hammock, and I loved the fire pit and table being next to the driveway. There's electric at every site, and a paved driveway for RVs. One thing is that the sites in the east loop, while a little more spaced out than the west loop, are still real close together," advises Emma W.
Confirm water safety: Swimming areas vary in cleanliness. "The beach and water is full of litter. Boat launch was big with plenty of parking. We launched kayaks and paddled over to the swim area. Dogs and cigarette butts all over the beach," notes Beth H. about W.J. Hayes State Park Campground during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Check dump station access: Not all campgrounds with cabins provide convenient dump facilities for RVs. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long. Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT," explains Bob B. about Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Verify site dimensions: Many cabins share areas with RV sites, but size limitations exist. "If your longer than 40ft be aware most sites will not work for you here, they do have some but the wood line, privacy and nature is great," warns Mano P. about W.J. Hayes State Park Campground.
Consider electrical capacity: Most cabin areas offer limited electrical service. "Only electric hookups, but good for a short weekend. Best bike orbs, horseback riding, and quiet," notes Kristen S. about Pokagon State Park Campground.
