The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals near Dowling, Michigan

Looking to rent a cozy cabin near Dowling, Michigan and enjoy the peacefulness of a river nearby? Hipcamp offers over 110 options tailored to your preferences, ranging from rustic to luxurious. Some of the top campsites include Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews), and Art Farm Fennville (59 reviews). Many campsites come equipped with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water. You can also enjoy popular activities such as historic sites, horseback riding, and biking. The average price per night is $75, with options as low as $25. It's time to pack up your gear and start planning your adventure!

98% (234)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to rent a cozy cabin near Dowling, Michigan and enjoy the peacefulness of a river nearby? Hipcamp offers over 110 options tailored to your preferences, ranging from rustic to luxurious. Some of the top campsites include Lynx Run Wilderness Retreat (236 reviews), Our Lil' Ranch (78 reviews), and Art Farm Fennville (59 reviews). Many campsites come equipped with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water. You can also enjoy popular activities such as historic sites, horseback riding, and biking. The average price per night is $75, with options as low as $25. It's time to pack up your gear and start planning your adventure!

98% (234)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. McCormick Artisans Woods/River

100%

(74)

44mi from Dowling · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jonesville, MI

We bought this property in 2012 and have built several buildings and forged paths throughout the 32 acres. Our road is part of the North Country Trail, a footpath stretching over 4,600 miles from Middlebury in central Vermont to Lake Sakakawea State Park in central North Dakota. While tearing down the existing house, we constructed two bedrooms in the pole barn for a quick living space. Once settled in the pole barn, we a built a small log cabin with already felled timbers from the local woods, except for the box frame which was purchased from the local Amish. Prior to building our permanent log cabin home, this small cabin was our camp site and is now being rented to people that want to relax and enjoy the outdoors. In the middle of the woods, we created a campground to be enjoyed by hikers and on the North side of our property is a tree line between two fields that is a great small camper/tent camping spot.

2. Riverside Retreat at New Richmond

96%

(99)

45mi from Dowling · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Fennville, MI

Welcome to the Historic Village of New Richmond! Once a bustling lumber town established by early settlers, New Richmond now sits idle on the Lower Kalamazoo River. Fast Forward 150 years...... Welcome to WaterTrail Ventures! Where the pavement ends, adventure begins. Come adventure with us!! Our riverbend glamping site awaits your arrival! Located on our private river bank this is on 3 acres of land shared by 2 personal glamping sites and a rustic group campsite. Our sight offers scenic views of sunrise on the riverbend as well as the New Richmond Swing Bridge. Now open to pedestrian traffic only, the small county park next door offers a riverside boardwalk full of natural flora and wildlife for morning strolls or the delight of a fisherman who likes to be 1st on the water! Kayak and Canoe Rentals are also available on sight by appointment or reserve one with your tent. Hiking trails nearby offer a great way to explore the Allegan Forest and reconnect with nature. 7 miles east of Saugatuck and 5 miles north of Fennville, our site makes a perfect escape from the nearby lakeshore district and tourist attractions. Just follow the paved road all the way to the end and enter through our private drive. ....where the pavement ends, adventure begins! See ya at the river!

3. Cabin in the woods.

97%

(37)

36mi from Dowling · 2 sites · Lodging · Belding, MI

I am creating a homestead based on simple but holistic living. The cabin was built built by myself with the help of family and friends. There are a number of trails to walk on the 35 private acreage of rolling hills. This heavily wooded land hosts much wildlife and beautiful scenery. There is a sport court which provides opportunities to play basketball, volleyball, pickleball, or badminton. The property is a work in progress with lots of plans for the future; including a food forest, natural pool, recreation building (being built summer 2022), and more.. The property offers a chance to reconnect with each other, yourself, or the natural world in a simplistic and harmonious way. I hope you come experience it! 35 private acres of forest on rolling hill terrain. Lots of wildlife nestled very close to the flat river; 30-40 minutes away from Grand Rapids. The Fred Meijer trail provides great biking or hiking opportunities. Lazy float tubing or kayaking down the flat river is very popular and only a short walk away. Horse back riding, golf courses, and an amazing local bakery all within a couple miles. And a fun sport court (basketball hoop, volleyball/badminton/pickelball net all right on site!

4. Have A Lake Of Your Own!

92%

(138)

46mi from Dowling · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lawrence, MI

The property was originally owned by a family name Nichols (thus the name of the lake). It was handed down to the sons who each owned half the property. The driveway down the middle of property that leads to the lake was originally a fence line that divided the two pieces of property. The brothers did not get along and their are several stories of their warring on how to maintain the property.My parents bought this piece of property in 1964 and created a camp called "Lakeside Farm Camp", a small all boys camp. The camp has gone through several changes since then but has always been owned by the Edwards family. In 1984 the name was changed to "Cedar Lodge" a coed camp that specializes in English horseback riding and offering high level general camp activities. Enjoy the peace and quiet of our totally private fresh water lake. Take your boat out for a day of fishing or just chill next to the fire. Sites are approximately 50 feet from each other. If you want privacy we suggest you book both.

5. 20 Acre Woods

100%

(4)

48mi from Dowling · 1 site · Lodging · Lawrence, MI

Welcome to a secluded cedar wood built cabin (circa 1970) situated in southwest Michigan’s beautiful forest landscape. If you love being surrounded by nature this is the place for you. This is a place of reflection, enjoying the river , strolls through the property, bonfires, solace on the screened in porch. Learn more about this land: Traditional cedar wood cabin with some modern updates, nestled in 20 acres of native woods (maple, sycamore, beach, ash, walnut, paw paw), right on the Paw Paw river. Situated 2 hours from Chicago, 20 Acre Woods is the perfect place to retreat, reconnect with your humans and explore Van Buren County. Think camping/not camping . . . this is an original 1970's cabin with some modern updates - newly modeled kitchen, contemporary lighting, underfloor heating, filtered water system. You are situated on private land - secluded with easy access to local towns. You’ll find a map of the property parameters in the cabin. Local towns - Bangor (farm shop for fresh produce in season), Paw Paw (bakery boutique, kayaking), Watervilet & Coloma (kayak rental, outdoor movies in the summer, artes and craft store) Hiking, biking, cross country skiing on the Van Buren and Kal-Haven Trail. Other things to note when the weather allows, swimming in the river is lovely, just be prepared for the natural edge (clay/mud - river bottom is sand)

6. Baggins Inn

100%

(3)

13mi from Dowling · 1 site · Lodging · Bellevue, MI

Rustic 1800s Traditional Cabin on 90 Acres with Pond and Wildlife. ••NO ELECTRICITY•• 🍁Propane heater provided🔅 Experience the charm of the 1800s in our authentic hand-built cabin with a communal loft, set on a serene 90-acre property. ☀️Wake up to the sights and sounds of nature, with deer, foxes, and more frequenting the area. ☕Sip your morning coffee on the porch as the mist rises over the woodlands. What You’ll Love: • Historic Cabin: Lovingly preserved with original details and rustic touches. • Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, foxes, and other wildlife right from your doorstep. • Private Pond: Relax and soak in the peaceful views. Amenities: • Sleeping arrangements for up to 8 guests • Guests provide their own cooking stove, bedding, and padding • Fire pit for evening gatherings • Neaby outhouse Perfect For: • Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts • Couples seeking a romantic escape • Creatives: Artists, Writers, and Musicians Immerse yourself in this rustic space surrounded by nature’s beauty. As night falls, enjoy starry skies and the tranquility of the forest. Book your stay to escape into this peaceful sanctuary!

Stories from the community

S

Steve

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Baggins Inn

Very cool historic cabin surrounded by a marsh. My dog had a great time exploring the area. The owners put in a great propane heater and I had a nice warm evening in the cabin. Would definitely return!

Cindy

October 2025

2 nights at McCormick Artisans Woods/River

The log cabin was ideal for the two of us, comfortable and cozy for reading, sleeping, tending the fire, enjoying birdsong and stargazing. We also appreciated proximity to the beautiful Lost Nations trails.

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Hannah

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Baggins Inn

An amazing place to stay if you are looking for a private rustic getaway! My boyfriend and I picked this site to take our 9mo old puppy camping for the first time and it was an incredible experience. We did a lot of hiking, cooking, and relaxing. We saw deer, possums, and turkeys! Just remember to do tick checks!

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Have A Lake Of Your Own!

Great spot. We were the only cabin, so lots of privacy and the bathroom to ourselves. We rented a canoe and purchased firewood, they were ready and waiting upon our arrival. Lake was great to canoe around. Trail loop was short and sweet, but a nice walk through the woods. Seeing the horse get let out in the afternoon was really nice.

Pamela

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Baggins Inn

My husband and I travel all over the country and we have stayed at unique locations over the years. This was a unanimous vote for our very favorite. The setting is something straight out of the cinema. You have 360 views of nature and serenity. The cabin is an art installation. It’s phenomenal. The attention to detail is incredible. The smell of it is something I’d wear like perfume. There is no power and low reception and that’s just what we were looking for. The bathroom is a short walk from the cabin. We brought cute little camping lights that made our stay all the more magical. The sounds of the forest around you and the way the sun and moon both shine down in the woodland is magnificent. We weren’t even checked out before deciding we need to plan a trip back. 10/10.

A

Anna

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Have A Lake Of Your Own!

We love this spot! Second time we have stayed and will be back!

A

Anna

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Have A Lake Of Your Own!

What a gem! We enjoyed our stay at Cedar Lodge so much—can’t wait to come back!

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Viki

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Have A Lake Of Your Own!

We stayed in Penguin Palace. The cabin and campsite were clean and as expected. We enjoyed canoeing on the lake, relaxing by the fire pit, and peach picking nearby. I would recommend this place for a nice outdoor weekend!

D

Dorea

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Riverside Retreat at New Richmond

The cabin at Riverside was absolutely adorable! All the ambience of a true fishing cabin from long ago. Julie and Bill were fantastic hosts. The communication was spectacular and they responded to us immediately when a little hiccup occurred. The cabin is situated right on the river and there are boats and kayakers waving as they pass. There is a train directly across the street hidden by some trees, so you will hear the train noises, but that didn’t bother us any. It’s not a secluded site, but you still have privacy. You really only need to bring your clothes because everything else has been provided for you. Fennville is a cute little town with a surprisingly well appointed grocery store and some great dining spots. It’s a short distance to Saugatuck, Holland, and a little farther to South Haven. We had a great day and would love to come back again to do some kayaking! Thank you, Bill and Julie!

J

Jake

June 2025

With pets

5 nights at Have A Lake Of Your Own!

The cabin was easy to get to but felt far away from the real world. We enjoyed having a fire in the pit every night and cooking our dinner and s'mores over it. The owner was always prompt and accessible for any questions we had. Would recommend if you're looking for a primitive cabin site.

T

Timothy

April 2025

Weekend Trip to McCormick Artisans Woods/River

This place was awesome. I can’t even say enough good things about it. The hosts are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. They make sure you’re comfortable and keep you informed on anything going on around there. Made sure the fires were going when we got there and everything was really clean. Not one complaint. It is my ideal outdoors spot and I will be keeping this information for the future and to share with others. They set the bar high I don’t see any others being like this. 10/10

Lauren

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Have A Lake Of Your Own!

Beautiful view from the hill, we loved being able to see the horses.

Tom

January 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to McCormick Artisans Woods/River

You better believe this wood stove cabin is COZY! We enjoyed a weekend here while negative degree real feels iced over the outdoors. Very friendly and thoughtful hosts ensure you'll have a nice stay here. Quick zip to downtown Jonesville's charm and don't forget the amazing hiking in this NCT town! If you don't know, the cabin's reading materials will get you up to speed.

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Stacey

January 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to McCormick Artisans Woods/River

We loved our stay at Mac and Ann's place! Our goal was to hike some of the NCT but Mother Nature iced us in so we ended up staying at the cabin drinking beer and putting a puzzle together. We have a fantastic stay and the woodstove kept us very cozy. We would definitely stay there again no matter what the weather.