McGinnis Lake Modern Campground at Holly Recreation Area offers three small rustic cabins that provide woodland seclusion. The Cedar cabin accommodates families comfortably while the Aspen loop features more basic cabin options. Many cabin rentals near Lapeer include separate camping areas for different experiences, with some cabins positioned in wooded settings that create privacy between units. Water access varies between locations, with most offering lakes or beaches within driving distance rather than walking distance from cabin sites.
What to do
Water activities at lakes: Holly Recreation Area features multiple water recreation options including swimming beaches and paddling opportunities. "This is a giant recreation area that features a campground, 3 lakes, tons of trails, and even a splash zone for kids," notes Kate K. The park combines cabin accommodations with water recreation in one location.
Hiking on maintained trails: Woodland trails connect many cabin areas to recreational facilities. "We love the trails and the wildlife and the kids loved the parks," says Stephanie H. about her three-week stay at Holly Recreation Area. Most cabin locations offer marked paths through forested areas suitable for all skill levels.
Winter recreation options: Several cabin locations remain open year-round for cold weather activities. Outdoor Adventures Lake Shore Resort provides "great opportunities for winter sports" according to Despina S., with over 70 cabins available throughout winter months. Many cabin areas maintain plowed access roads during snowy conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between cabin sites: Many cabins offer secluded settings with natural screening. "Sites were spacious, we loved the national forest," reports David S. about Holly Recreation Area cabins. Woodland settings provide separation that makes cabin camping feel more remote even at developed facilities.
Cabin variety and size options: Addison Oaks County Park offers multiple cabin configurations to accommodate different group sizes. The park receives consistent praise for cabin quality, with Jennifer O. noting, "The only real negative I have is that for each group site there is a single fire pit. This made cooking, sitting around the fire, and many other things quite difficult."
Natural wildlife viewing: Cabins positioned in wooded settings allow for animal observation. "We saw deer and rabbit," Karen C. mentions about her Addison Oaks County Park experience. Many cabins include covered porches or outdoor seating areas for wildlife watching during morning and evening hours.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, with deposits and minimum stays during peak seasons. At Groveland Oaks County Park, availability can be limited, especially for pet owners. Andrea K. notes, "I don't believe the cabins are pet friendly though. It's probably the only reason we haven't been back."
Variable amenities between locations: Cabin facilities range from primitive to modern. Tim & Nancy C. describe Addison Oaks cabins as "spacious" while mentioning the park provides "26 miles of bike trails and hiking. Many in park are paved."
Seasonal availability changes: While some cabins operate year-round, others close during winter months. Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area maintains cabin access during colder months but Cheryl K. warns summer visits can feel "claustrophobic" with "full campground and sites close together and crowded."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Pontiac Lake Recreation Area cabins provide access to multiple outdoor recreation options. Mary H. recommends: "If you are hoping to hook up to electrical, bring extension cords; some hook ups are exceptionally far away from the designated RV parking pad. Extensive mountain biking trails and the lake is open to boating, kayaking, and other water sports."
Playground access: Many cabin locations include dedicated play areas for children. "The campground has it all, electric, cabins, playgrounds, basketball courts, etc..." reports Kate K. about Holly Recreation Area. Most family-oriented cabin facilities maintain play equipment within walking distance of cabin units.
Bug protection essentials: Wooded cabin locations can have significant insect activity during warm months. Kristina J. advises Pontiac Lake visitors: "There are tons of mosquitoes and ticks, so make sure you bring bug spray. Also make sure that all food and garbage is secure at night, the raccoons have no fear."
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives during RV maintenance: Covenant Hills Camp offers cabins that provide temporary accommodations when RVs need service. The camp maintains cabin options year-round with Jenny A. noting it's "very convenient for me we stay they and I can drive to work. Lots to do, kayaking, fishing, the blob much more. Clean and friendly."
Site access considerations: Cabin locations may have challenging access roads or parking areas. David B. describes Covenant Hills as a "good, quiet campground (unless your on a site around the playground)" with "lots to keep the kids busy." Most cabin facilities include designated parking areas separate from the cabins themselves.
Extended stay options: Some cabin locations accommodate longer-term stays. Stephanie H. shared her extended experience: "We've state at this campground on and off for roughly 3 weeks staying mostly at the Cedar cabin but we also tent camped as well. The staff is amazing, the campground is well maintained and quiet."
