Within Allegan State Game Area, Ely Lake Campground operates as a rustic destination managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division. This primitive campground sits along a non-motorized lake surrounded by forested terrain, offering 73 sites that range from small tent spots to larger areas suitable for RVs, though the narrow internal roads limit access for longer rigs.
The campground maintains basic facilities including vault toilets, hand-pump water stations, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Campers pay $17 per night through a drop-box system, bringing cash or checks since no on-site staff operates the facility. Sites 49-73 occupy the more secluded side of the lake with larger, more private spacing between camping areas. The lake itself restricts motorized watercraft, creating conditions suited for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
A roughly one-mile trail circles the lake perimeter, marked with yellow blazes on trees, though some sections become less defined. The campground accommodates equestrian camping with designated horse sites and riding trails throughout the surrounding state game area. TheSydliks notes this location works well for campers wanting to "run your generator" since no electrical hookups exist, though "solar is a negative due to tree cover."
Weekend noise levels can vary significantly, with some campers reporting late-night disturbances during peak season. The facility operates year-round, though maintenance remains minimal and dumpster service occurs only during busier periods. This setup appeals to campers comfortable with basic amenities who prioritize lake access and equestrian activities over modern conveniences.
Description
Ely Lake Campground is a primitive campground located on Ely Lake that offers a quality camping experience that is close to town but has a definite backcountry feel. There are 73 campsites, all of which can be used by both equestrians and non-equestrians, and connects to 30 miles of horseback riding trails located in the Allegan State Game Area. Amenities include walking trails, a swimming beach, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The most beautiful and unique thing about Ely Lake is that the entire park is primarily wooded, providing for plenty of shade in the hot summer months and some spectacular foliage color in the fall. In keeping with the primitive setting, there are no modern restrooms or running water, but there are hand pumps and vault toilets. Ely Lake Campground is open year round and has some spectacular fall and winter camping available.
RESERVATIONS must be made five (5) business days or more prior to your camp date. All UNRESERVED sites are available on a first come/first served basis at the campground. Camping is allowed at numbered sites only.
CAMPSITES are $17 per night and limited to:
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Either one camper plus one tent, or two tents
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One immediate family or four (4) unrelated adults
EQUESTRIAN NOTES:
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Trail riding without a season pass is $5 per horse per day; pay using fee tubes at park
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Equestrians are allowed to have one horse trailer and one camper (can occupy only one unit for sleeping)
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Picket posts are on sites 58 - 73 only however equestrians are allowed on any site
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Portable corrals are allowed away from trees
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Tying of horses to trees and/or cribbing of trees is not permitted
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Fireworks are prohibited
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Alcohol allowed within a designated campsite with a paid camping permit
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Dogs must be kept on a 6-foot leash and cannot be left unattended
For more information about the campground and the complete campground and park rules and regulations please visit our website
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Private CampgroundEly Lake Campground is located in Michigan
Directions
Click [here](http://cms.allegancounty.org/sites/Office/Parks/ParksPages/Directions%20to%20Ely%20Lake%20Campground%20and%20Equestrian%20Park.aspx) for driving directions.
Address
Physical Address: 5020 116th ave
Fennvile, MI 49408
Coordinates
42.534619016918484 N
86.03500752181135 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/10/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/10/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 45 min from Kalamazoo, MI
- 48 min from Grand Rapids, MI
- 1 hr 3 min from Battle Creek, MI
- 1 hr 3 min from Niles, MI
