Cabins near Lake, Michigan provide access to the Muskegon River and multiple fishing ponds throughout the region. The area features a mix of pine forests and open spaces with elevations between 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer brings warm days ideal for water activities at the numerous small lakes scattered throughout Isabella and Clare counties.
What to do
Tubing adventures: River Country Campground and Livery offers equipment rentals with shuttle service. "You're able to rent a tube, kayak or canoe to cruise down the Muskegon River. They were kind enough to shuttle us to the drop off point a couple of miles away," notes Janessa L.
Fishing options: Multiple ponds at Isabella County Herrick Recreation Area provide relaxed fishing opportunities. "Ponds are just that, ponds. Not gonna catch record breaking fish here, but you can kyak around a bit. Electric motors only here," explains Dj W.
Hiking and biking: Walking paths and bike trails available at several locations. "There is the Pier-Marquette Rail trail about 1.5 miles from the campground, great for biking, running etc," states Jennifer H. about Herrick Recreation Area.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds maintain swimming beaches for guests. "We had a river site again this year," says Samantha K. about her riverside spot at River Country Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Countryside Campground & Cabins offers well-maintained grounds with room to spread out. "Sites around #40 are spacious and shaded all day which was awesome. No mats allowed but it was great as the grass is green and lush," shares Tracey L.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is consistently highlighted. "Bathrooms are cleaned 3 x a day. Showers were warm and clean," reports Jennifer H. about Herrick Recreation Area.
Peaceful atmosphere: Bluegill Lake Family Camping Resort provides a quiet environment for families. "This is a family campground and the quietest park I have ever stayed in. Rates and fees are all reasonable. Private lake with some lakeside campsites," writes Al K.
Waterfront options: Several properties offer cabins with direct water access. "We camped at site 5 and had the river as our front yard. Electric is provided at each site, and they do have a dump station," mentions Dj W. about Old Log Resort.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer weekends book quickly, especially at popular locations. "We made a reservation one year in advance only to have it changed without any notice by the camp," cautions one visitor to River Country Campground.
Amenity variations: Electric hookups are standard but water access differs by property. "Rustic feel as all sites are electric but no water hook up. There are spigots in the center as well as a dump station and potable water fill," explains Curtis S. about Herrick Recreation.
Seasonal operations: Most cabin rentals operate from May through October. "We stayed the weekend and fully enjoyed it," writes Dj W. about Old Log Resort and Campground, which provides small cabins with river access.
Road noise considerations: Some properties are located near highways. "The ONLY downside I had, and I knew full well going into this and it didn't bother me, it is on M115, a fairly busy road," notes Dj W. about Old Log Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: School Section Lake Veteran's Park Campground offers children's programs during peak season. "Small lake with clean shallow beach, wooded sites, clean facilities led to fun times with grandkids," shares Russell S.
Bug preparation: Insect repellent is essential during summer months. "Make sure you bring insect repellent!" advises Russell S. about School Section Lake.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment. "Upgraded park for kids," mentions Emily W. about Countryside Campground & Cabins.
Special events: Weekend activities enhance the family experience. "They had a foam party (my 5 year old loved this) and offered hay rides Saturday evening," reports Emily W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Wilson State Park Campground offers various site configurations. "Yes, some spots are smaller than others, so be honest about your rig length when booking. Many sites are rather large, like 97, but severely sloped, also like 97," advises Dj W.
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment for uneven terrain. "Our site was a back in with not a lot of maneuvering room but even though some may feel these sites are small, we had plenty of space," notes Russell S. about School Section Lake.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available at certain properties. "I can't complain about the park itself. Maybe put a bigger playground near the camping sites, so your kids can play and be within eyesight," suggests Dj W. about Herrick Recreation Area.
Supply planning: On-site stores stock limited necessities. "Store has apparel, camping tools, and ice cream. Kids ran there every day and it is affordable and friendly," mentions Tracey L. about the store at Countryside Campground.
