Cabin options around North Branch, Michigan range from rustic single-room structures to larger rental units with modern amenities. Temperatures in this region typically range from 20°F in winter to 80°F in summer, making cabin camping practical year-round with proper preparation. The area sits at approximately 800 feet above sea level in Michigan's Thumb region, characterized by rolling countryside and small lakes.
What to do
Swimming at lake beaches: Otter Lake Park Campground features a nice sandy beach area for swimming. "The beach area is nice and sandy, lots of places to fish," notes reviewer Nona A., highlighting the dual recreational opportunities.
Kayak and paddleboat rentals: Outdoor Adventures Lake Shore Resort offers paddle boats, paddleboards, and kayaks for guest use. As one visitor mentions, "Beach volleyball, putt putt, shuffleboard, kids playground areas, basketball and more... paddle boats, paddle boards."
Miniature golf courses: Berwagana Campground maintains putt-putt facilities suitable for all ages. According to a camper, "They have putt putt, basket ball, jr basket ball, running track, baseball field, horseshoes, playground and a pond."
Winter sports options: Some cabins remain open during colder months. "Great opportunities for winter sports. Pools, lakes, mini golf. Designed for young families," reports a visitor about Lake Shore Resort.
Fishing opportunities: Most cabin properties offer lake or pond access for fishing. A camper at Otter Lake notes, "Lots of places to fish," while Covenant Hills visitors report "fishing alot of pike."
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground has well-maintained restrooms. "Bathrooms are clean and it has hot showers and a place to do your dishes as well," shares reviewer Stephanie H.
Wooded cabin sites: McGinnis Lake Modern Campground — Holly Recreation Area provides tree-covered sites for a more natural setting. As one camper states, "Actually feels like camping with all the trees, not lined up in a farmer's field. Lots of trails and great beach with a dog friendly area."
Swimming options beyond lakes: Multiple campgrounds provide pools for swimming alternatives. A visitor at Krystal Lake Campground shared, "There is a pool and a beach, a small store, putt putt, Kayaks. Not my favorite type of camping, but great for a family."
Campground stores for basics: Many cabin locations maintain on-site shops. One camper notes about Berwagana, "They have a lot to offer, and not to be critical, but a little sprucing up could go a long way."
Religious orientation at some sites: Faith-based campgrounds provide structured environments. A Covenant Hills visitor mentioned, "Definitely recommend to families w kids that are on the conservative side and would like to keep their faith religiously on sundays with service."
What you should know
Site sizes vary significantly: Many campgrounds pack units closely together. At Krystal Lake, one visitor recommends, "Overall, very nice place IF you request a quiet/private site... once arriving at the campground, I saw the site they were assigned to and it was tight and overly populated!"
Weekend noise levels: Evening activities may create disruptions. A camper at KOA Campground Emmett notes, "Nice, quiet campground (unless your on a site around the playground)."
Seasonal sites dominate some areas: Many cabin locations prioritize long-term renters. One review warns, "If you are looking to stay here, all of the decent waterfront sites have seasonal campers in them."
Booking windows vary seasonally: Summer reservations often require planning months ahead, while shoulder seasons offer more flexibility. A family group at Covenant Hills reported, "We had a large group of families with varying ages and abilities. We used multiple different styles of cabins and a few RV sites, as well as various buildings for activities."
Pet policies differ by cabin type: Many locations restrict pets in certain accommodation types. Check individual cabin policies before bringing animals, as some welcome pets while others maintain strict prohibitions.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Crystal Creek Christian Campground offers structured recreation for kids. A reviewer shares, "Amenities including but not limited to horse shoes, swimming (man dug pond) hiking, basketball, volleyball and etc. No alcohol allowed as this is a Christian campground but for all the amenities it is extremely affordable!"
Playground access: Most cabin locations maintain play equipment. At Covenant Hills, a visitor notes, "Good, quiet campground (unless your on a site around the playground)lots to keep the kids busy, bonus ice cream store."
Water recreation options: Multiple cabin properties feature swimming areas. An Emmett KOA visitor states, "Beach is big and clean," while another adds "I've been camping for a while now. All my grandkids are with me. They will have fun all day long in and out of water."
Budget-friendly lodging: Crystal Creek offers economical options. "As low as $20 for 15 amp full hook up or as low as $15 a night for rustic tent camping! Great place to take the family even several times a season on a budget!"
Off-peak visit benefits: Weekdays provide less crowded experiences at most cabin locations. A visitor to Emmett KOA shared, "My daughter and I had a great time here. We went during the week so it was not packed."
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup variations: Covenant Hills Camp provides full services at many sites. One RVer notes, "Large sites, all full hookup. Plenty of onsight activities on the weekend."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. A camper observes about Covenant Hills, "I wouldn't say rustic but the sites can be a bit hard to get into. They don't level out very well."
Access roads and navigation: Larger units may struggle at certain properties. "They guide you into your site which is extremely annoying and freak out if you go the wrong way on the one ways," reports one RVer.
Extended-stay options: Multiple campgrounds accommodate longer visits. A KOA camper explained, "The smallest KOA we have been to but it was a nice change. The new owner helped us back into our site - he was very nice and enthusiastic."
Cabin alternatives for RVers: Several locations offer rental units when RVs need maintenance. Cabins provide backup lodging options during repairs or when traveling with extended family who don't have their own rigs.
