Bear Cave operates as a Thousand Trails property on the St. Joseph River, with sites assigned first-come, first-served despite accepting reservations. The campground runs from May through October and features rough access roads that can challenge larger RVs, particularly in areas with low-hanging branches and tight maneuvering spaces.
Most full-hookup sites stay occupied by seasonal campers, leaving transient visitors with electric and water connections. The property spreads across different loops, with river-facing sites offering the most desirable locations. Jerry S. notes "The sites are a bit on the smaller side. The only sewer hook-ups are all taken by seasonal campers." Cell service remains limited to one bar for Verizon users, though paid WiFi provides internet access for $8 per day.
The campground sits directly on the St. Joseph River with a boat launch, docks, and swimming access. A waterfall drops 12 to 16 feet near the property's namesake cave, though cave tours have been suspended indefinitely as of 2025. Facilities include a heated pool with ADA lift, playground, clubhouse with games, and clean bathhouses. A dump station services RVs without sewer connections for $10 per use.
Wildlife sightings occur regularly throughout the wooded property, while the river provides fishing and boating opportunities. The location puts campers within 20-25 minutes of Warren Dunes State Park and Lake Michigan beaches. Andrew M. found it "close to the Redbud Moto Cross track, Fernwood Botanical Gardens, in the heart of West Michigan's Wine Country."
For additional camping choices, explore campsites around Buchanan or consider Shamrock Park for a different experience.
Description
Bear Cave RV Resort is a wonderful place to experience the great outdoors, meet new people, relax, and be a part of history. We have the only naturally formed cave in Michigan. This cave has a lot of history, through its connection as a stop on the Underground Railroad and the silent film "The Great Train Robbery". Bear Cave RV Resort is a peaceful and fun park, focused on family fun in a friendly environment. Enjoy our many weekend scheduled activities or make new friends and create one of your own using our many onsite amenities. Stand near a Native American Conference Tree or watch wildlife trek through our campground. From this Southern Michigan RV campground you can fish in the St Joseph River or rent a row boat or kayak. The Bear Cave RV Resort staff is here to make your stay a pleasant and memorable experience! Southern Michigan RV campground is rich in history, adventure and natural beauty Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Bear Cave RV Campground. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
RV ParkThousand Trails Bear Cave is located in Michigan
Directions
From jct US 31 (exit 72) & US 12: Go 2 mi W on US 12, then 5-1/2 mi N on Red Bud Trail.
Address
4085 Bear Cave Rd
Buchanan, MI 49107
Coordinates
41.88256088 N
86.35784728 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/2/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/2/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 17 min from Niles, MI
- 25 min from South Bend, IN
- 38 min from Elkhart, IN
- 38 min from Michigan City, IN




























