Look, roasting marshmallows and singing songs by the fire is great and all, but cabin camping is a much easier way to enjoy the sights of Michigan. Finding a place to cabin camp in Michigan is easier than ever. Search nearby cabins or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Wilderness State Park, located just 11 miles west of Mackinaw City, is home to 26 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, 20-plus miles of trails, a designated swimming and pet-friendly beach and unique camping opportunities. The park is also a designated dark sky preserve offering stellar views of the sky and is just 9 miles from Headlands Dark Sky Park (an Emmet County park).
In the southwestern-most corner of Michigan, about 100 miles from Grand Rapids, Warren Dunes State Park is home to 3 miles of sandy beaches and windswept dunes on the shore of Lake Michigan. There are 6 miles of short trails for exploring the area, but the main draws to Warren Dunes camping is soaking up rays on the beach and climbing the dunes. The tallest dune, Tower Hill, rises 260 feet above the lakeshore and offers a panoramic view over the surrounding area. Park guides offer a variety of seasonal nature programs that highlight the area’s flora, fauna and natural features. Alcohol is not permitted on the beach at Warren Dunes, and dogs must remain leashed, and are restricted to certain areas only.
The campground at Warren Dunes is located away from the beach, in a wooded area near the highway. On the upside, there’s plenty of shady trees to take cover under on the warmer, sunnier days; on the downside, there’s plenty of highway noise to distract from the peacefulness. The two camp areas—Modern and Semi-Modern—offer a total of 220 tent and RV sites that vary in size and seclusion. The larger Modern area has restrooms with showers, drinking water and playgrounds for the kids; limited hookup sites are available. This area also has three rustic mini-cabins for rent. The Semi-Modern area is more spartan, with just water and vault toilets. A dump station is located between the two areas. Campsite rates range from $25–$45/night; cabins are $52/night.
The Lower Falls Modern Campground features two campground loops, Hemlock and Portage. All sites have 30-amp service, and some 50-amp sites are available. A sanitation station is available seasonally, and recycling is available.
The Hemlock campground loop is located about a mile from the Lower Falls and is open year-round. The campground is generally more shaded than the Portage campground loop, with access to the park’s hiking trail system. The campground is the best place in the Lower Falls for cellphone service. In winter, portions are reservable for semi-modern camping.
The Portage campground loop is located near the river, about a quarter-mile from the Lower Falls. This campground loop features an ADA-accessible modern toilet and shower building and some accessible campsites. A few sites have river views, and the campground loop is generally sunnier and more open than the Hemlock campground Loop. There is North Country Trail access from the campground. In winter, the campground loop is open for hike-in camping.
$28 - $32 / night
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Hoffmaster State Park is 1,200 acres of wooded sand dunes and 3 miles of sandy beach. The park is named for P.J. Hoffmaster, considered to be the founder of Michigan’s state parks system. Located just a few miles south of Muskegon, and 40 miles west of Grand Rapids, this park offers an outdoor reprieve where you can swing in your hammock under shady pine and hardwood forest, and enjoy pleasant lakeside strolls while peeping for migrating sparrows and hawks. One of the park’s must-do activities is climbing the winding wooden stairway to the Dunes Overlook for great views over the lake, and the fascinating dunes that have developed along the lakeshore.
Open from April to October, the campground at Hoffmaster State Park offers nearly 300 wooded tent and RV campsites on either side of Little Black Creek. Sites are equipped with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits; restrooms and water faucets are located throughout the campground area. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 50 feet; a dump station is available near the campground entrance. A kids’ playground is located near the creek, between the two camp areas, and there are two trailheads for accessing the beach. There are also several picnic areas and a concession stand inside the park. Dogs are permitted in the campground area and on the trails, but must remain leashed; they are not permitted on the swim beaches. Campsite rates range from $25–$37/night.
If you need a break from sunning and swimming on the beaches at Hoffmaster, you can visit the Gillette Visitor Center. You can learn about the park’s sand dune ecosystem, see exhibits about the park’s flora and fauna, or attend a nature program about native birds, bugs or beasts. The center also offers guided, interpretive bird walks, dune hikes and night prowls. If you’re ready to strike out on your own, pick up a trail map and start roaming the park’s 5 miles of hiking trails. On the 1-mile Dune Overlook Trail you can climb 100 stairs into the park’s “quiet area” for a panoramic view over the dunes and Lake Michigan. Bring your birding guide with you, as the park is known for a wide variety of residential and migrant songbirds and raptors.
$38 - $42 / night
The Rivermouth Modern Campground is wooded and features two loops with a variety of sites, including some accessible, paved and pull-though sites. Campers enjoy walking along the river among blueberries and wildflowers underneath massive red pines. Bicycling is a popular way to travel around the campground, to the playground and to the accessible fishing platform in the adjacent Rivermouth Pines Campground. There is a 30-amp service available on each site, with some 50-amp sites available. There is a nearby boat launch, and kayaks are available to rent, first come, first served, from the Rivermouth Campground office. A sanitation station and recycling are available.
$20 - $23 / night
Traverse City State Park is a 47-acre state park set in a more urban setting and featuring .25 miles of beautiful beach on the Grand Traverse Bay. The park is located only 3 miles from downtown Traverse City, one of the Michigan's most popular resort towns. The park was established in 1920 on about 16 acres of land after the logging industry began to wane. In 1921 and 1939, parcels were added to increase the park's land area. The original inhabitants of the land were the Ottawa branch of the Algonquin Indians.
Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. The Michigan Recreation Passport does not cover local, county, municipal, or metropolitan parks or recreation areas. Learn more: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp
$25 - $65 / night
Fort Custer Campground at Fort Custer State Recreation Area is a 3,033-acre park located between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. The park features three lakes, the Kalamazoo River, a campground, a swimming beach, boat rentals, more than 25 miles of multi-use trails, paddling and fishing opportunities, second growth forests and remnant areas of prairie. The trail system is popular with mountain bikers, equestrians, hikers and dog sledders. Originally farmland, the area was acquired by the federal government to establish Camp Custer, an induction and military training center for the U.S. Army during WWII. The land was deeded to the State of Michigan under President Nixon's Legacy of Parks in 1971. No alcoholic beverages allowed in park April 1 through Labor Day.
Twelvemile Beach Campground is a beautiful campground along Lake Superior located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, just 15 miles (24 km) west of Grand Marais. There are 36 sites total, including 2 universally accessible sites. Twelvemile Beach has water, pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and an interpretive amphitheater. The campground has access to the North Country Trail and the two mile (3.2 km) long self-guided White Birch Interpretive Trail. The turning radius and some of the parking at sites are limited, so the Park recommends that camper, or vehicle/trailer length should NOT exceed 42 feet (13 m).
There are three sets of stairs to the beach as well as a day-use picnic area and parking. The two-mile (3.2 km) long White Birch Trail begins and ends at the campground. The North Country Trail treks through the campground. The entrance road winds through a picturesque stand of white birch.
Sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline beckon you to visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's coastal features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. Hiking, camping, sightseeing, and four-season outdoor opportunities abound.
Kayak and Other Guided Tours and Pictured Rocks Boat Cruises within the national lakeshore are offered by authorized private companies. Pontoon boat and other rentals for use on Lake Superior are available in nearby communities.
$25 - $35 / night
The Porcupine Mountains Presque Isle Campground offers 50 rustic campsites near the scenic Presque Isle River. There are vault toilets and hand pumps for water. In addition to drive-up sites, there are also 6 walk-in sites. The campground is split into two loops. The east loop is a generator friendly side, while the west loop is generator free. There is access trails to the nearby Presque Isle River and or to the Lake Superior shoreline. Firewood is available for purchase at the campground office. At roughly 60,000 acres, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is Michigan’s largest state park. It is home to 35,000 acre old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, miles of rivers and streams, more than 90 miles of hiking trails, the Lake Superior shoreline and vistas unrivaled anywhere in the Midwest.
$4 - $20 / night
Guide
Stayed a night in a deluxe cabin in the winter. Warm and small, perfect for a night. Great ski hill view — right next door for mountain access. Bonus: hot tub!
Scout
Clean family friendly RV Resort. Pool, hot tub, modern restrooms and showers, playground, laundry and bike rentals. I believe all the sites are full hookup, cable t.v. and wi/fi. Less than a mile to Lake Michigan and close to boat launch and Lake Macatawa.
LegendThis is a beautiful campground in Holland, Michigan. My pictures were taken in December so my picture dont do the campground justice. This campground is beautiful in the summer. The campground is typically open from April to October. This is a family resort and it is drug and alcohol free. It has a beautiful pool and hot tub. There are 1 and two bedroom cabins available. You can reserve everything online, in person, or over the phone.
Traveler
This place is very nice and conveniently located to the dunes and all of the local attractions. We decided to rent a cabin this time since our toy hauler was in the shop. The cabins are very clean and up to date with modern appliances. All of their campsites are on a concrete pad and the lawns are groomed perfectly. The pool and hot tub are a great way to relax after spending a day on the dunes.
ScoutGreat campground with a variety of options to stay. Full hook up, luxury cabins, rustic cabins, electric sites, walk in tent sites. Location is perfect. Only wish would be that they add more bathrooms/shower rooms. Can be long waits in the morning/evenings.
Scout
Each rv/trailer site is full hookup! Has both 50&30 amp. Tent sites also have water and electric. Has a pool, hot tub, mini golf, shuffleboard, and so much more! A quiet, relaxing place to get away from city noise.
Scout
This is a great family campground. There are Sites right on the river, kayak rentals, pool and hot tub, and a separate swimming hole with sandy beach and inflatable toys! It has a great playground for kids, volleyball court, basketball court and camp store! The people that work there were absolutely a pleasure to interact with and extremely accommodating! I would HIGHLY recommend!
Guide
Membership campground, membership fees are WAY overpriced, check FB Marketplace for folks selling their membership.
Campground is huge, with more than 700 sites. Most sites are very cramped and right up against you're neighbors, but there are some nicer spots scattered throughout the campground. Tons of activities, several outdoor pools, indoor pool with hot tub, game room, splash park, lazy river, kayak and paddleboats rentals.
Traveler
We have been going to Camp Dearborn for five years now, and our friend's family has been going for nearly sixty! They have activities for both children and adults, two beautiful beaches, a pool, tennis courts, and now a zip line. Options for camping range from tent sites to luxury cabins. We usually get a platform tent, which sleeps six people and comes with a kitchen cabana.
Scout
Wonderful view of the lake beautiful log cabin very comfy sleeps 10 6 single beds with 2 queen beds wood stove was awesome
Guide
This is another great scout ing campground with cabins, rustic camping, tent sites, lakes, horses to ride, this is one HUGE camp ground for scouts to enjoy and learn..
ScoutStayed here for a weekend away and to visit family. Was pleasantly surprised on how friendly and helpful registration desk personnel were, and how well laid out the campground was. We stayed in a basic cabin - and were astounded at how clean they were and how good they smelled - like fresh cut wood! The bathrooms were the same, and the button lock entry to cabin, bathroom and shower room is an excellent touch. The view from the main office building is great, with a wonderful view of the river off of the back deck. The camp store has a nice selection of wine and the usual necessary items campers need. They also have a hot tub and pool, and altho we didn't get to use it on this trip we certainly will on the next visit!
RangerLarge sites overall. Very clean bathroom. Nice pool/hot tub and a small bar (wine/beer) at the front reception area, with public fire pit.
ScoutFantastic. Large spots. Full hookups. Amazing hiking and mountain biking and easy access to all Marquette has to offer. Cool river access. Pool is good enough, nice hot tub, putt putt, excellent bar, camp store.
Scout
Awesome park. Playground which they are expanding. Large sites as it is a big rig park. Very clean bathrooms. They are adding a large game area and they have a swimming pool and hot tub.
Scout
Nice pool, hot tub, movie for kids, train ride for kids. Small sites, lots of people. Camp hosts were fantastic as were camp store employees. Nice store and pizza shop. Just too crowded for our tastes.
Traveler
The first time I visited, over 10 years ago, I was blown away. And every visit since has been equally amazing. They have a large indoor pool, hot tub, and even a game room! I always look forward to my next visit.
ScoutThis was our first outing with our camper. Coloma wasn’t far for us, and it was worth it. Everyone was super helpful when we had questions. They had a hot tub and heated pool. Mini golf and bikes you could rent. The store was nice and lots to offer and the prices were very reasonable. Showers close by. All in all we had a great first experience and would recommend this campground. Very close to Lake Michigan and the beach!
GuideOur dd was excited that she could see the McDonald’s golden arches from our site! The campground is clean & well maintained. It was easy for us to park our 35 ft trailer because the sites are large & level, but also because there weren’t any trees along the campground roads. Our kids loved that there is a pool, hot tub & bouncy pillow! This is our 2nd time staying & both were because of its convenience to ‘civilization’ not to get away from it. This time we took the opportunity to enjoy the afternoon shopping in Marquette before heading to the eastern UP the next day for a week’s stay there. It is located in town, near a Camping World & just behind some restaurants, shops, a brewpub & a hotel, but the other sides of the campground are surrounded by trees/forest because it is the UP. A great campground if you want to explore the area’s history or natural beauty, shop in Marquette or if you are checking out Northern Michigan University’s campus (about 20 minutes away). Most sites are full hookup, they also have rustic cabins & a dog play area. I’m sure we will stay here again, as it’s a short trip for us, the kids love the amenities & I’d like to explore the area for more than our usual day trips.
TravelerVery nice - we were in site 31. Plenty of space and we did not feel like we were too close to others. They had lots of hiking trails near and a bar and pizza place. Nice store, nice staff, pool/ hot tub, and right on the river. You are also able to take a nearby ski lift up the mountain for some great views!
Scout
It was a nice campground. Nestled in nature, quiet, clean, WiFi only at the clubhouse. Private beach with a steep paved walkway accessible across the street. Absolutely the best sunsets over Lake Michigan! Friendly staff, Pool was clean, refreshing, and hot tub as well. Game room for the kids. Various outdoor games-usual horseshoes, shuffleboard, basketball, small playground. Many, many, many speed bumps throughout. Firewood was wet. Other campers we talked to said it’s always wet, that they don’t buy it there. Spent $70 for weekend rate, I think it was $60? For weekday? Just for electric, water, no WiFi, 4 days. With all the campgrounds MI has to offer, this was a very nice campground, and would recommend it, but we personally look forward to exploring other options.
RangerStayed here while visiting Marquette!
Honestly, the campground is not the best. Most sites too open.
We did enjoy the pool and hot tub... plus the walk up bar with pizza. They also have a deck and patio to hang out at. There is an area down by the creek with chairs.
A walking trails meanders by the creek.
The best part was the 3/4 mile ish trail that goes up to the Marquette Mountain. We walked up at night (bring flashlights!!!) and the view was breathtaking! We overlooked all of Marquette and the stars were incredible!!
night
TravelerLocated just off the highway but out of earshot of the major noise, this campground is awesome!
The sites are well maintained and we required no additional leveling. Sturdy and maintained picnic table at each site. Electric at our site -39- was error free. Water pressure is excellent. Wonderful shade trees.
The staff is amazing! After all they love German Shepherds…. Very professional, courteous and helpful.
Bathroom and showers are super clean. Plenty of hot water.
Laundry is available but we did not use.
Heated pool and hot tub are available and spotless.
A retired military service discount was offered as well!
6/04/21
GuideThis campground is only a few years old and therefore not a lot of shady RV spots. But it is very well equipped. Wifi is great, cell service strong, nice bathhouses with laundry, an amazing store with pizza and bar/alcohol, a pool and hot tub (not exactly warm), and easy in/out. Outdoor seating by a stream and fire. There are a few sites that don’t look super level but ours is perfect for our fifth wheel. Trash dumpsters at front of site and there’s even a dump clean out there. The only negative is the septic drain slightly higher than normal. You may need something rigid to allow proper fall. It’s a great campsite!
Scout
Hidden Ridge is a modern RV resort within 8 minutes of Gun Lake and sandwiched between Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. There is no tent camping available at this location.
All sites include a concrete pad, fire ring and full hook-up. 120/150 amp
Lots of activities for the whole family. There is a pool, hot tub, bounce pillow, splash pad. Children’s activities are planned throughout the week and adult activities, as well.
Gun Lake is crystal clear meaning you can see the sand/pebble bottom. There is fun to be had on this nice-sized Lake.
Not far from Hidden Ridge is a race track that is busy each weekend with all manner of race cars.
Traveler
We rented their pet-friendly cabin. It consists of a single room, two bunk beds, a table mounted to the wall, two chairs, a mini fridge, a microwave, coffee pot, a wall heater and a wall-mounted fan. Nothing fancy, but serviceable. There's a site with a picnic table, grill, and fire pit, connected to the cabin, as well as a decent sized front porch. Also nearby the dumping station, but this isn't as bad as it could be, at least during our midweek stays ((We've done two weekday stays.) There's a patch of grass across the drive, where puppy potty bags are dispensed, for easy bathroom breaks with the dogs, and it is also close to the campground host site and firewood vending machine. The firewood is really decent quality, and the machine accepts cards, which is nice, compared to other parks. The bathrooms/showers are a short walk away, and are really a lot nicer than most state park facilities. Several accessible/family restrooms are available, offering shower seats, benches, a dual height showerhead, sink, and toilet with grab bars, all in one lockable room. Several campsites are one the waterfront. As other's have mentioned, the beach is seeing some significant changes, due to historically high lake levels, which has forced several campsites to close, and the designated dog beach to be inaccessible. They have alleviated this by shifting the pet-friendly beach area to the site of the closed campsites. It is still an amazingly beautiful place to just sit in awe of the beauty of Lake Huron. There is a two mile nature trail that winds through the outer part of the park, and it supplied a great hike with our dogs. The park itself is within a reasonable walk to the local grocery store, utilizing a paved path that leads from the campground to the town. We just love it there. The only thing holding back from a five star is the beach area's struggles. But that doesn't even feel fair, because there's little that humans can do at this point, to change that.
Ranger
If you have a big Class A RV and need a full hook up and a pool, this place will work. We paid $165 a night and were surprised that it was just a gated community for RVs with a pool. Lots of the amenities were broken or not available (hot tub jets broken, no hot water for showers, movie room broken). Some of these may be due to covid or just like of upkeep. Our site had a nice paved pad, but it wasn’t level and the concrete was painted so we were slipping off the levelers. The coach house had very limited hot water. Gas fireplace and grill was provided. The vibe of this place was gated community and not camping- wry little trees in property. A fine location to access the Petosky are. Overall we found it overpriced and boring. We thought it would be luxury for the price, and it was “meh.”
Cabin camping in Michigan offers a unique blend of nature and comfort, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing the amenities of home.
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