Cabin camping near Kalkaska, Michigan offers access to forested terrain in the northern lower peninsula, approximately 25 miles east of Traverse City. The region sits at elevations between 1,050-1,300 feet above sea level, creating cooler summer nights than surrounding lowland areas. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, making cabin rentals particularly valuable for cold-weather outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do
Explore old growth forests: Hartwick Pines State Park Campground provides access to historic logging exhibits and preserved virgin white pine stands. "There are lots of trails for biking and hiking, a day use/mucc logging museum that's kinda throughout this one area of woods. Beautiful new and old growth, a couple of nearby lakes," notes Rachel K.
Visit local wineries: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort serves as a convenient base for exploring the region's wineries. "Only 10 mins from the great wine tasting!" mentions Jason C. The campground's location lets visitors experience both outdoor recreation and culinary tourism within a short drive.
Beach access: North Higgins Lake State Park Campground offers shoreline swimming. "The beach was nice, water is crystal clear," reports Jay T. The park provides day-use picnic areas along with swimming access, making it suitable for families seeking water activities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers well-spaced campsites with natural screening. "The trees keep your site blanketed in shade all day long," notes Michelle S., highlighting the natural separation between camping areas.
Quiet locations: Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground provides secluded camping experiences. "Hopkins is your dream camp site. Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty and secluded serene area," shares Jeri.
Clean facilities: Otsego Lake State Park Campground maintains well-kept shower buildings. "Bathrooms are new on the smaller side of the park," states Andrea B., while another camper notes the park has "a gorgeous new bathroom" in one section, demonstrating the facility upgrades.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: At Leelanau State Park Campground, sites fill quickly during peak season. "We were lucky and found an open site but they filled up by mid afternoon. Reservations might be the best way to go here," advises Art S.
Site terrain variations: Some cabins and campsites require leveling equipment. At Otsego Lake State Park Campground, "Site 52 and sites in immediate area was over 12" out of level from front to back," reports Patrick, indicating the importance of checking site descriptions.
Seasonal operation: Kalkaska RV Park & Campground operates from April to October 30, limiting winter camping options. The park offers cabins with basic amenities during this period, but closes completely during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Traverse City State Park Campground connects to local trail systems. "One of our favorite things is being connected to the bike paths so we can bike to downtown area while staying on bike trails," shares Cassondra P., highlighting the transportation options beyond driving.
Playground access: Several parks feature recreation areas for children. At Leelanau State Park, "The new playground was a hit for the kids, one of the best playgrounds we have experienced at a state park," according to Melissa M.
Wildlife awareness: Food storage precautions vary by location. At Leelanau State Park Campground, "raccoons are insane! They are not afraid of anything. We were very good about putting everything away," warns a camper, indicating the importance of proper food storage even with cabin accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, utility connections may require extensions. "The hookups are rather far away so we needed extensions. Our site required us to pull through in such a way that the hookups were on the opposite side of our coach," advises Hope C.
Generator policies: Rules vary significantly between parks. Some locations restrict generator usage beyond quiet hours. Understanding each park's specific policies regarding power generation helps prevent conflicts with camp hosts or neighboring campers.
Site selection: At Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, choosing the right location enhances the experience. "We had no complaints regarding our weekend here! Staff was all Great. Had a well stocked camp store," notes Cassondra P., emphasizing the importance of communicating with staff about specific needs.