Cabin camping near Ovid, Michigan sits at around 750 feet elevation in the gently rolling central Michigan landscape. The area features several lakes and small rivers with mixed hardwood forests providing both shade and habitat for local wildlife. Winter temperatures can drop to single digits while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s, with most campgrounds maintaining cabin availability year-round regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sleepy Hollow State Park Campground, the 410-acre lake offers excellent angling. "Fishing is good here for some largemouth bass, and huge blueguils," notes camper Michael P. The park's size makes bringing a vehicle helpful for accessing different fishing spots.
Hiking trails: Trails throughout the region provide varied terrain for all skill levels. "Fun backpacking trails best trails close to state capital. Fishing, boating, disc golf, horse and bike trails, Geocaching available," says Jacob B. about Sleepy Hollow State Park. Most trails remain open year-round, though spring conditions can be muddy.
Water recreation: Maple River Campground provides direct river access for kayaking and canoeing. "September 9th 2017 I hosted a Kayak/Canoe trip and we used this location for our landing and camping. It was a great little location that even had some river side cabins you could rent," reports David F.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campsites offer more seclusion than others. At Bishop Lake Campground, "Our campsite had a view of the lake, but no shade. The beach was nice but you have to walk a trail to get to it from the campground or drive. Nice walking trails. Our favorite was the lake for kayaking," mentions Debra B.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse cleanliness varies by location. "Bathrooms are clean, paved roads and grass sites," notes Ricky C. about Sleepy Hollow State Park. Most parks maintain regular cleaning schedules with shower facilities available at modern campgrounds.
Kid-friendly activities: Groveland Oaks County Park stands out for family recreation. "The campground has a lake for swimming, water slide, arcade, boat rentals, mini golf, biking trails and fishing. Lots for kids to do... also skate park and 2 playgrounds," explains Debbie H.
What you should know
Electrical connections: Extension cords may be necessary at some parks. "Be sure to bring at least 100 feet of extension chord if you want electricity, because the power ports are not as accessible from some areas," advises Nathan V. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Cabin availability: Cabins book quickly during peak season. At Myers Lake Camping & Cabins, they're "Adding cabins to their already 8'ish to accommodate additional 'glampers' as some of us enjoy a bit more than a tent and or camper OR don't have a tent/camper," reports Tammy P.
Weather considerations: Michigan seasons affect cabin comfort significantly. "We stayed in very hot weather at the beginning of July 2020. I wanted to visit Potter Park Zoo so we choose to stay at Sleepy Hollow for a few days. Our site backed up to trees and I can't recall seeing our neighbors to the left or right," shares Amy D.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Bruin Lake Campground offers multiple recreation possibilities. "We usually stay at Bruin Lake in Pickney SRA but take day trips to silver lake and Pickney state park! The parks are clean and there is tons to do!" says Samantha C.
Playgrounds and swim areas: Many parks feature kid-specific amenities. "The park is very large, so it is always good to have a vehicle able to drive to the trails and beach," advises Nathan V. about Sleepy Hollow State Park.
Site selection for families: Look for sites with proper spacing. "We took advantage of one of the hike in only areas along the waterloo trail. Trails were not very clearly marked and part of the hike was on the road," notes Heidi S. about Pinckney Recreation Area, suggesting families with young children should stick to drive-in sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't available at all locations. "Full hookup area is away from most of the weekend traffic with a short cut to get to where all the kids stuff is located," mentions Debbie H. about Groveland Oaks County Park.
Site sizing: Large rigs need careful site selection. "We travel in a 42 ft motorhome and suggest if you are traveling in a large rig, drive through the park to find an appropriate site," recommends Carol W. regarding Groveland Oaks County Park.
Seasonal considerations: Shoulder season camping offers advantages. "Our campsite was a little difficult to get into because it was on a curve and there was a seasonal camper with a Class A right across from our site which didn't allow for a lot of space to maneuver our 26 ft travel trailer," warns Debbie H. about Groveland Oaks County Park.
