Cabins near Marysville, Michigan range from rustic to modern accommodations across several county and state parks in Michigan's eastern "Thumb" region. The area sits along the western shore of Lake Huron at approximately 600 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Rocky shorelines characterize many of the waterfront camping options, particularly at lake-adjacent properties where rock collecting has become a popular activity.
What to Do
Lake swimming at Lakeport State Park: The park offers direct Lake Huron access with a sandy beach that gradually transitions to a rocky shoreline. "The beach is right on beautiful Lake Huron with sandy beaches and clean clear water. They have tons of campsites with electronic hook ups and fresh water spouts throughout the park," notes Andrea W., who adds that the park has "miles of hiking trails and on the weekend activities every couple hours for the kids."
Rock collecting along Lake Huron: Lakeport State Park is known for exceptional rock hunting opportunities. "This beach is mostly rocks and I have to say that I have found the most Petoskey stones (State of Michigan Stone) and pudding stones (a conglomerate of rocks with jasper sticking onto the rock)," says Stephanie C., who recommends bringing a chair and binoculars to watch freighters while searching for special stones.
Mountain biking and disc golf: Oakland County Addison Oaks features extensive trail systems for both hiking and mountain biking. "Addison Oaks is a campground that features hiking and mountain biking trails, campground, cabins, disc golf course, and a lake for boating," reports Kate K. The campground maintains both paved hiking paths and dirt mountain biking trails throughout its extensive grounds.
What Campers Like
Multiple pool options at Jellystone: The water amenities at Jellystone Park North Port Huron keep families entertained throughout their stay. According to Kelly L., "This campground has SO much to do that you will never hear your kids say those dreaded words.. I am bored! There are round the clock activities, pool with kid area, water slides, obstacle course, GaGa pit, playground, jumped and so much more!"
Peaceful wooded sites at Addison Oaks: The south section of the park offers a quieter camping experience away from crowds. "Area D with lots of trees and sites for tents or back-in trailers. The grounds are huge with bike/hike trails, a lake and a disc golf course," explains Richard T. about his experience at Oakland County Addison Oaks.
Cabin options for different group sizes: Bald Mountain Recreation Area maintains rustic cabins popular with larger groups. "There are two rustic cabins that are available for rental year round. They are popular with hunters and scout troops. The cabins sleep about 10-15 people if I remember correctly. They are rustic, so they don't have electricity or heat but there is a large wood burning stove," explains Kate K.
What You Should Know
Campground sections vary significantly: The north and south sections of Lakeport State Park offer very different camping experiences. "The northern section seems to be the louder section and the southern section seems to be the more laid back quiet section... The south section has more of a woodsy outdoor feel while the north section has more of an open space, smaller lots, crowded feel," advises Stephanie C.
Utility layouts can be challenging: At Forester Park Campground, the utility hookup placement requires extra planning. "The sewer and water spigot were on opposite ends of our site. I had to race to Raymond's hardware in town for a 50 foot fresh water hose before they closed... The sewer access was slightly uphill from our site, so that caused some issues as well," warns Branden B.
Rocky beaches require proper footwear: Many Lake Huron beaches have rocky shorelines that require protection. "The beach is awesome, the one drawback is the rocks that extend about 20 yards from the waters edge, but if you have water shoes its not so bad," recommends Noel S. about Lakeport State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Book activities in advance: At busy family campgrounds like Port Huron KOA, popular rentals sell out quickly. "When we tried to rent a golf cart we were told there were no more... the staff told us that we should have booked it when we booked our site since that's what most people do," advises jon G., who otherwise enjoyed the pools and splash pad.
Choose your campground section wisely: Family dynamics affect which camping area is best. "The north section has TONS of children. If you have kids or do not mind kids running around everywhere, this is the side for you! If you want peace and quiet, stay in the south section!" recommends Stephanie C. about Lakeport State Park's distinct camping areas.
Look for weekday stays during summer: Forester Park and other popular campgrounds become extremely crowded on summer weekends. "We went on memorial weekend, it was packed as expected," notes Jacquie A., who still enjoyed her stay but suggests booking early for holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Tight spaces can make RV parking challenging at some campgrounds. "We also don't have a slide out, but our trailer was brushed against a tall tree/bush. If we weren't against the tree, our awning may have been against the opposite neighbors' trailer," notes Branden B. about his experience at Forester Park Campground.
Consider electrical load requirements: Some campgrounds have limitations on their electrical systems. "They have to upgrade the electrical system this fall on the southern side and they have closed some campsites in the south in order to help with the electricity issue. Apparently, some sites were losing power because there wasn't enough energy to support all of the lots," explains Stephanie C. about infrastructure issues affecting availability.
Look for paved pads in wet conditions: Concrete camping pads make a significant difference during rainy periods. "The sites are very spacious in size and a few provide full hookups... We enjoy the peace and quiet of the wooded area and a nice campfire, so this is a nice place for us," says Keith K. about Lakeport State Park's camping options.
