Cabin camping options abound within a 40-mile radius of Portage, Michigan, where the region's inland lakes and wooded areas create natural buffers between campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall bring milder conditions with colorful foliage changes. The terrain consists primarily of rolling hills interspersed with small lakes, creating numerous secluded spots for cabin rentals.
What to do
Biking and hiking trails: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems for all skill levels. The park maintains dedicated mountain biking paths separate from hiking trails to prevent conflicts. According to Bob B., "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat. If you're in the area, this is highly recommended."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes provide fishing options at several campgrounds near Portage. TriPonds Family Camp Resort features well-stocked ponds with catch-and-release bass fishing. A visitor noted, "Very nice family campground with a lot of things for kids to do. Fishing pond has a lot of bass. My son has caught one every time we've been here."
Water activities: Many cabins offer access to swimming areas, canoe rentals, and water features. Camp Michawana provides free water equipment for campers. As Bailey C. mentions, "They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site layout and natural barriers enhance the camping experience at Fort Custer Recreation Area. According to Hannah, "We've stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!"
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds prioritize cleanliness in their bathhouses and common areas. At Cold Brook County Park, debe K. reports, "Staff was great! Showers and bathrooms cleaned multiple times a day. Pet friendly. Would stay here again!"
On-site amenities: Cabin facilities often include extras beyond basic accommodations. Hidden Ridge RV Resort visitor Cheyanne P. explains, "I grew up coming here and they had expanded a lot on it in the last few years. You will never be bored and it is a true resort feeling, you will forget your camping! They have themed weekends filled with activities."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals near Portage operate on limited schedules. Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday runs from mid-April to mid-October, with peak season falling between Memorial Day and Labor Day. A visitor notes, "We enjoy the heated pool and lots of activities for kids. Camp with blueberries right outside your door!"
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential for cabin accommodations, especially at popular locations like Hidden Ridge RV Resort. Sites with premium amenities typically require deposits and early reservations, particularly for weekend stays and holiday periods.
Varying hook-up options: Electric service varies by location and site. As VB S. explains about Fort Custer, "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," while other locations offer full-service connections or primitive options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds typically feature dedicated play areas for children. Michawana Campground offers extensive facilities according to Bailey C.: "This campsite is perfect for children! The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite."
Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds coordinate events for different age groups. TriPonds Family Camp Resort visitor Liz reports, "What a great place to camp with friends and family. We've been going annually for 7 years. The owners/hosts are wonderful. They keep the place clean and looking beautiful."
Beach proximity: Lakefront cabins near Portage provide swimming opportunities. Covert Park Beach & Campground offers quick beach access as Jessica D. describes: "Lake Michigan is right there! We walked down to sunset and it was a 5 min walk max. I'll stay at any campground to have Lake Michigan in walking distance."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations carefully based on your equipment needs. Chris M. advises about Covert Park Beach & Campground: "The small loop (sites 1-19) are flat and great for larger parties, the bigger loop (30-64) have some crazy un-level sites mixed in, but most were fine. Make sure to call and check on specific sites."
Connection limitations: Wi-Fi and cell service can be spotty at more remote cabin locations. According to a Covert Park visitor, "Cellular data was poor in the campground and on the beach - we needed a 5-minute drive to get good Verizon coverage."
Utility placement: Check utility layout before selecting a cabin or RV site. One camper noted about Covert Park, "Most sites the electrical box and water hook up is on the wrong side of the site. Bring extra line... we have 50ft hose so we were fine there (line goes through the middle of the site) and 25ft electrical and had to re-adjust the camper a few times."
