Camping cabins near South Boardman, Michigan offer convenient access to northern Michigan's forested landscapes at 1,100-1,200 feet elevation. Seasonal temperature variations affect cabin availability, with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most cabins require advance planning due to limited availability between late spring and early fall.
What to do
Hiking at Hopkins Creek: Located in Fife Lake, Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground provides secluded cabin options with trail access. "Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty and secluded serene area, that you won't want to leave," notes Jeri, who visited the area.
Swimming at North Higgins Lake: The state park offers cabin accommodations with beach access about 50 miles from South Boardman. "Beach was really nice! The water is crystal clear," says Laikyn C. One visitor mentions "easy access to the water from everywhere thanks to groomed paths. Nice long but narrow sandy beach great for the kids to swim."
Winter activities: Cabins at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground stay open year-round for cold-weather enthusiasts. A visitor notes, "Open all year, nice park, big rig friendly, has full hookups. We enjoy hiking here. The old logging museum is interesting to walk around & check out."
What campers like
Proximity to Traverse City attractions: Traverse City State Park Campground cabins provide easy access to urban amenities. "You can catch bus for ride into town where there are lots of shops, breweries, etc - very nice town. There is a pedestrian bridge to go over to the park along the bay," reports Colleen S.
Pest management: Kalkaska RV Park & Campground maintains comfortable cabin sites by addressing insect issues. "Sprayed for bugs so the bugs were not much of a nuisance. The camp sites are a nice firm gravel and pretty level. We didn't even have to use leveling blocks," shares Tammey B.
Family-oriented facilities: Manton Trails RV Park, Hotel & Campground offers cabin options with recreational amenities. "Lots of things for the kids, basketball, volly ball, a beach area, pond with fishing. Very clean, very kind and helpful staff!" notes valerie C.
What you should know
Seasonal pricing variations: Cabin rates fluctuate based on demand, with peak season generally running May through October. Most properties require deposits and have cancellation policies ranging from 7-14 days before arrival.
WiFi and connectivity challenges: Cell service varies significantly between cabin locations. At North Higgins Lake State Park, a visitor reports: "Don't expect to make phone calls, the cell service (AT&T) was very spotty." Everflowing Waters Campground has similar challenges, though some cabins offer limited Wi-Fi access.
Noise considerations: Everflowing Waters Campground provides basic cabin accommodations but visitors should know about the setting. "It is basically a large yard turned into a campground, but it is done well and easy in/easy out. Was not crowded when we went around Laborday and easy quick access to getting to Traverse city/winerys/local state forest areas while not spending as much on the camping costs," explains David M.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for holiday weekends: Family-friendly cabin rentals fill quickly, especially at peak times. "We stayed in a travel trailer on site 73 the week before the 4th of July week. The park and bathrooms were always clean, showers were clean and had good water pressure," reports a North Higgins Lake visitor.
Consider noise levels: Some cabin locations offer more peaceful settings than others. A visitor to Traverse City State Park noted: "Super lively campground with lots of people and campsites close to each other. The airport is nearby as is the main road so don't expect much peace and quiet."
Look for organized activities: Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort offers extensive programming for children. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer. There is no shortage of activities here: a small pond/beach, pool, jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids," shares Allison H.
Tips from RVers
Pack extension cords: Hookup locations vary at cabin sites throughout the region. A visitor to Kalkaska RV Park noted: "Our site required us to pull through in such a way that the hookups were on the opposite side of our coach. They only have 15 full hookup sites."
Consider off-season timing: Many cabin properties remain open year-round but with reduced services. "We enjoyed our tent camping 4-day experience at this wonderful, clean, & friendly place," explains a visitor to Kalkaska RV Park about shoulder-season camping.
Check dump station availability: Not all cabin camping locations offer full sewer hookups. One Everflowing Waters visitor noted "No dump station was the only downside," while Hartwick Pines stands out with "some full hookups, unusual for Michigan state parks that I've seen."
