by Sam Greene
THE HOLIDAYS ARE here, and if you’re ready for an affordable and fun holiday escape, look no further than Michigan state park lodges. These modern accommodations provide all the comforts of home, in a variety of beautiful outdoor settings. There are 14 lodges total throughout Michigan, located at the following state parks:
Cheboygan State Park’s modern lodge sleeps 8 with 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, kitchen appliances, utensils, etc. provided. Call 231-627-2811 for reservations.
Furnace Hill Lodge at Fayette Historic State Park sleeps up to 10 people, includes a fuel-efficient furnace, remodeled kitchen, all appliances and bedding included. Call 906-644-2603 for reservations.
Grand Haven State Park’s modern lodge sleeps 8, within walking distance to downtown Grand Haven. Includes TV/DVD player/VCR. Call 616-847-1309 for reservations
Bass Lake Lodge at Highland Recreation Area sleeps 6 and includes a foosball table, TV and DVD player, and gas fireplace. Call 248-889-3750 for reservations.
Sears and Roebuck Modern Lodge at Hoeft State Park features 3 bedrooms which sleep up to 8 people. Sun room, game room, master bedroom with attached bathroom. Call 989-734-2543 for reservations.
Shoreview Cabin at Lime Island State Park sleeps 6 and features a lakefront view. Call 906-643-8620 for reservations.
Dune Grass Villa at Mears State Park sleeps 8 and includes cable TV, a washer and dryer, fire circle and grills.
Kaug Wudjoo Lodge at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park sleeps up to 12 people in a private location overlooking Lake Superior. Call 906-885-5275 for reservations.
River Hawk Lodge at Proud Lake Recreation Area features dormitory-style accommodations with community bathrooms in each wing. Nearby are horseshoe pits and campfire rings, and one of the most scenic rivers in southeast Michigan: Huron River. Call 906-492-3415 for reservations.
Tahquamenon Falls Lodge, located halfway between the upper and lower falls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park, provides easy access to trails for hiking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, and accommodates up to 8 people.
Traverse City State Park Cottage is only two miles from downtown Traverse City, one of the most popular resort towns in Michigan (sleeps 11). Call 231-922-5270 for reservations.
Twin Lakes State Park’s modern lodge sleeps 6 and is not far from local restaurants, a golf course, snowmobile/ORV trail, boat launch and picnic area, making it a convenient overnight stay for those looking to explore the area. Call 906-288-3321 for reservations.
Bay Stone Lodge at Wells State Park sleeps up to 10 people in a cozy, cottage-style house. Call 906-863-9747 for reservations.
Wilson State Park’s modern lodge will be available starting May 15, 2015. Features include TV, DVD player, gas log fireplace, and overnight space for 6. Call 989-386-4067 for reservations.