Most Michigan visitors are not aware that the Michigan State Parks have a large number of cabins and lodges available for rent.  They range from 2 bed rustic cabins in the back country of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park to a fully furnished cottage in Traverse City that sleeps up to 11.  The cabins are located in some of the most scenic places in the State and offer a reasonably priced lodging option for Michigan visitors.  

The popular State Park Mini and Camper Cabins are typically located on a campsite in the park's campgrounds.  The cabins offer visitors the camping experience without having to buy camping gear or an RV.  This is a great way for families that are new to camping to try and see if they like it before investing in their own equipment. 

The mini cabins and camper cabins are equipped with electric heaters and can make a great base camp for outdoor winter activities.  This time of the year you usually will have the entire park to yourself in the evenings and the rental rates are discounted in the off season. For more information on see below.

Michigan State Park Camper Cabins: The newest addition to the Michigan State Park lodging options are the Camper Cabins. Most of these cabins were built in 2008 by a partnership between the DNR and the Department of Corrections' Prison Build Program. The Camper Cabins are 400 square feet and offer a little more privacy than the popular Mini Cabins with the addition of 3 separate rooms. The Camper Cabins sleep up to 6 with 2 bedrooms and futon in the main living area. Another nice feature is the covered front porch that makes a great place to sit and relax after enjoying another day in the Michigan outdoors. Renters have access to the campground restroom and shower buildings in season.  During the off season pit toilets are available near the cabins.

Camper Cabins are currently available at: Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, Holland, Interlochen, Lakeport, Metamora-Hadley, Mitchell, Onaway, Orchard Beach, Pinckney, Port Crescent State Park, Proud Lake, Tahquamenon Falls, Tawas Point, Van Riper and Waterloo State Parks.

The Camper Cabins are also available year round and can be reserved up to 1 year in advance. Prices range from $60 to $80 per night depending on the season. There is also an $8 advanced reservation fee that applies.

Michigan State Park Rustic Cabins: If you are looking for a more secluded getaway the Department of Natural Resources also maintains a large number of Rustic Cabins located in more isolated sections of the parks. Many of these cabin are unique in design and size and can sleep anywhere from 2 to 24 people. The cabins have single beds with mattresses, table, chairs and propane or wood heat. Most cabins can be reached by vehicles with the exception of the backpacker cabins in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and a few others.

More Information:

MI State Park Rustic Cabin Page

For more information on the backpacker cabins in the Porkies pick up a copy of:
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park by Jim DuFresne

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