What better state in which to go camping than Pure Michigan? You’ve heard Tim Allen describe the beauty of the Great Lakes state in the commercials. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss!
If tent camping in Michigan isn’t for you, book a cabin! To purely enjoy the state’s sights and features up close, it’s important that your camping trip is comfortable yet commendable.
Keep reading to learn about our 13 picks for the best Michigan cabin camping!
Waterfront Cabin Camping in Michigan
1. Pure Michigan Cabin, Brimley, MI
First on our list is this Pure Michigan Cabin. Inside this two-bedroom, ¾-bath cabin, linens are already provided on queen-sized beds, and the kitchen has the basic necessary appliances. In the living room is a view of the lake and wildlife.
The hosts are very accommodating, as they accept rentals within a week. They also monitor the cabin for critters and spiders and implement pest control measures if necessary. Anybody cabin camping in Michigan who hates pests will rest easy here!
As you fish at Waiska Bay, you’ll have undisturbed views of the sunset and freighters passing by on Lake Superior. If you brought your dog along, take it for a walk or run up and down the golden beaches!
2. Lake Michigan Log Cabin, Arcadia, MI
Up north is the two-bedroom, one-bath Lake Michigan Log Cabin, which was recently updated with a new kitchen and bathroom. Guests are equipped with new cooking amenities, linens and towels, a Smart TV, and a Bose stereo.
The lofted bungalow has a lake view and a queen-sized bed, while the lower level has a full-sized bed and futon. There’s also a wood-burning fireplace with firewood provided for cold nights. If you’re outside watching the sunset, make dinner with the gas grill or build a bonfire.
Guests can swim, paddleboard, kayak, or take 3-mile walks on the beachfront at the lake. Also, surfers who are cabin camping in Michigan can surf in a section of the lake! Nearby activities include the Sleeping Bear Dunes or Elberta’s Cabbage Shed per the host’s recommendation.
3. Lakefront Traunik Log Cabin, Traunik, MI
The one-bedroom-and-bath Lakefront Traunik Cabin is the perfect getaway for any group: couples, families, and friends—dogs, too! Out the front door is Hiawatha National Forest, and the wooded and lakefront setting makes your cabin camping in Michigan picturesque.
The cabin is fully furnished and has running water; there’s electricity despite the lack of Wi-Fi. Other amenities include towels, basic kitchen utensils and appliances, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table. All the more reasons to spend time in the forest while Michigan cabin camping!
You’re provided kayaks and fishing rods for Aleck Lake. Be sure to take advantage of the many trails on foot, an ATV, or a bike, and watch some birds. And Munising and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are 20 minutes away for more adventures!
4. Birch Lodge Cabin #2, Mackinaw City, MI
Cabin #2 is one of five two-story cabins at Birch Lodge near Lake Huron with two bedrooms and 1½ bathrooms. Linens aren’t provided, but towels are, and basic kitchen appliances and laundry amenities are available.
The second floor’s covered balcony makes for a relaxing place to sit. And though there’s no air-conditioning, reviewers love how beautiful and well-kept the cabin is. Also, if you have a larger group cabin camping in Michigan with you, you rent a second Birch Lodge cabin.
Across the road is the Mackinaw Trail for hiking and biking, so bring your bike along! If you love history, check out Fort Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City.
Secluded Cabin Camping in Michigan
5. Port Sanilac Log Cabin, Port Sanilac, MI
On Michigan’s thumb is the two-bedroom, one-bath Port Sanilac Cabin. It’s surrounded by pine trees in a grassy side yard with Lake Huron three minutes away. This more-than-a-century-old cabin is a great choice for eight guests going rustic on their Michigan cabin camping trip.
Cable TV, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi (depending on the provider), and central heating don’t exist in this cabin (except for a gas log fireplace). Families and friends can entertain themselves with games, puzzles, and other non-electronic activities.
The kitchen is fully stocked with supplies and appliances, and the living room has a couch and sleeper sofa. Other sleeping arrangements include a queen and bunk beds. And on the back porch is an outdoor shower.
6. Northern Bliss Cabin, Levering, MI
Cabin camping in Michigan sometimes involves camping in the middle of nowhere. You’ll experience that at the two-bedroom, one-bath Northern Bliss Cabin. You’re on a 10-acre lot that’s 15 miles away from Mackinaw City with beautiful wildlife—a true getaway, especially for birdwatchers!
It’s quite a bliss since there are thousands of acres to explore via hiking trails and the Lake Michigan shoreline. A mile away is O’Neal Lake for kayaking and canoeing and the Headlands International Dark Sky Park for the best star-gazing.
You’re provided linens and towels at check-in, but the host recommends bringing your own beach towels and blanket. Modern amenities include a recently-installed cedar sauna on the back deck, TV streaming, a fully-equipped kitchen, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
7. Private Bellaire Log Cabin, Bellaire, MI
Furnished with native rustic decor is this three-bedroom, one-bath Private Bellaire Cabin. Guests and pets are welcome to this wooded and secluded cabin that’s professionally cleaned and sanitized for their arrival.
The cabin’s kitchen has the necessary basic appliances, and laundry needs are taken care of with the washer and dryer. Central heating, air-conditioning, towels, a DVD player, and a fireplace are also among the few amenities.
Whether you’re cabin camping in Michigan during summer or winter, you’ll see this place has many activities. You name it: hiking, hunting, golfing, snowmobiling, skiing, and boating! For more activities, visit Shanty Creek Resort, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Mackinac Island.
Year-Round Cabin Camping in Michigan
8. Camp Garno Cabin, Manton, MI
If you have no set season to go cabin camping in Michigan, the four-season Camp Garno Cabin will accommodate you! This pet-friendly one-bedroom-and-bath structure is newly built and set in the woods of northern Michigan. It’s also a hunting camp for when deer is in season.
Cabin amenities include a fully-stocked kitchen, an outdoor patio and grill, and a washer and dryer. Air-conditioning and a TV with a satellite are among the recent amenities. Reviewers compliment the hosts’ hospitality and how clean and private the cabin is where it sits.
A few miles away is Manistee River for canoeing, rafting, and fishing. You can also hike, bike, snowmobile, and ride ATVs and ORVs on the nearby trails. Attractions away from Camp Garno include the Emerald Vale and Missaukee Golf Courses and bubble springs.
9. Black River Retreat Cabin, Bessemer, MI
The dog-friendly Black River Retreat Cabin is best for year-round rustic cabin camping in Michigan. Though its modern conveniences ranging from cable TV to MP3s, the cabin’s books, games, and cards are available for rustic guests.
The two-bedroom, one-bath cabin’s living room has a sleeper sofa that holds two people. Both the kitchen and bathroom are fully stocked. And each bedroom has assorted beds and a flatscreen TV, with the guest bedroom sleeping up to four people.
Outside the cabin is a stone-paved patio with a gas grill and fire pit. There’s also a paved parking area for 4–6 vehicles and a heated garage.
10. Cozy Cabin Rental, Copper Harbor, MI
The Cozy Cabin Rental is a home away from home for your Michigan cabin camping trip. You can rent this private one-bedroom-and-bath cabin for two nights or more any season of the year. Reviewers can’t get enough of its cleanliness and location.
You’ve got a fully-equipped kitchen and dining room and a private backyard with a grill and fire pit. For sleeping arrangements of up to four guests, there are two twin beds and a full-size sleeper sofa. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi and Internet access.
Within walking distance is Copper Harbor, where you can visit a public park and multiple shops and restaurants. You can easily access snowmobile, ATV, and mountain bike trails and may fish off Lake Superior’s public dock.
Luxury Cabin Camping in Michigan
11. Kingfisher Cove Pinetree Cabin, Saugatuck, MI
The two-story Kingfisher Cove Pinetree Cabin contains the luxurious comforts of modern-day life. When you’re not cabin camping in Michigan, you could be on a romantic getaway or having family and friendly reunions. Unfortunately, pets aren’t welcome at those places.
Set in a nature reserve, this cabin sports a hot tub, a large screened-in porch, a patio, and a gas grill. All bedrooms have assorted beds, sleeper sofas, large closets, bed linens, and comforters. And the kitchen is fully equipped with counter space seating eight people.
Besides the 42-inch screen TV in the loft, other pieces of entertainment include an iPod dock and many board games. Nearby is Lake Goshorn for boating and fishing. Also, if you cabin camp here during winter, the host will reduce the rental rates!
12. Luxury Custom-Built Log Cabin, Champion, MI
You’re in the lap of luxury if you’re camping in this family-friendly custom-built cabin with resort-like features and amenities. Guests who prefer luxury cabin camping in Michigan will thrive here. It even welcomes you with its hourglass-shaped entryways and curved staircase to the loft!
The cabin has an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna, along with a custom Tiki Hut. Its master bedroom suite has a custom-designed shower, a large heated tub, and a balcony. The gourmet kitchen is fully equipped, and the living area has a large fireplace with two DVD players and a TV.
Outside, you’re treated to sunset views on the overhang-covered front porch and a fire pit and charcoal grill. For swimming, boating, or fishing, there’s Michigan’s largest inland lake, Michigamme.
13. Wooded Traverse Cabin, Traverse City, MI
Don’t let its appearance fool you; this adults-only, one-bedroom, one-bath Wooded Traverse Cabin is what reviewers call a wooded luxury. Perhaps it’s because the hosts offer complimentary wine and sparkling drinking glasses or exceptional hospitality.
This patriotic-decked cabin is set in the woods, in which reviewers find it to be very tranquil for Michigan cabin camping. It has a fully-equipped kitchen and a screened-in porch from the living room. You can watch the wildlife from either there or on the patio’s bistro set.
A bike path is ½-mile away for you to explore the area. And if you’d like to have more wine, the local winery is only two minutes away.
Camp in Pure Michigan’s Cabins!
You don’t have to settle for a completely rustic camping experience to get away and explore this picturesque state. Cabin camping in Michigan is proof of that, so come and go satisfied and mystified by Pure Michigan!
Can’t get enough of Michigan scenery while camping? Take a look at Michigan’s best hiking trails or beautiful natural springs to make your trip more interesting!
- About the Author
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Sarah Keck is a long-time resident of the Midwest and loves its warm and cool atmosphere. She takes any walking or hiking opportunity with open arms and likes to learn and write about the best trails.
Sarah’s first camping experience was her church’s teens’ and twenties’ summer conference years ago. Her favorite activities were exploring the campground and sitting by the fire, listening to the wildlife.
As time went on, Sarah looked forward to camping and other vacation opportunities. Writing for Beyond the Tent has opened her eyes and mind to the country’s many beautiful destinations.