Glamping options near Allegan, Michigan extend beyond the popular resorts to include several family-oriented campgrounds with modern amenities. The region sits along the Kalamazoo River watershed where sandy soil conditions contribute to excellent drainage at most campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September, with occasional thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers multiple no-wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing, plus a swimming beach. "Lots of trails for hiking, horses and mountain bikes. Roads quiet and could easily ride your road bike to nearby bike paths. I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky," notes a visitor.
Biking the Kal-Haven Trail: Kal-Haven Outpost provides direct trail access for cyclists. "A group of us bike from Kalamazoo to South Haven every year using the Kal-Haven trail. We usually tent camp but tried a cabin here this year. It was the perfect option as the campground is right off the trail," explains one reviewer.
Paddling adventures: Explore the Kalamazoo River with access points near WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite. "We kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for. Upon arriving we were greeted with smiles and our hosts were more than helpful," reports a camper.
What campers like
Private beach access: Covert Park Beach & Campground offers direct Lake Michigan access. "Sunset views were beautiful. Bathrooms were very clean and showers nice and hot. The two guys who were running the check-in and campground operations were super cool- they were the perfect mix of attentive and laid back," shares a recent visitor.
Well-maintained facilities: Hidden Ridge RV Resort features concrete pads and full hookups. "Absolutely lovely park! Spacing was generous between locations. We had a drive-in(forward) location(#10) overlooking the small lake. There was some interstate noise but it was more of a steady hum and not an issue at all," reports one reviewer.
Nature immersion: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers secluded camping sites with substantial vegetation between neighbors. "We found a campsite that was large with vegetation separating us from neighbors. I didn't expect to find something this interesting as an alternate to original plans but it worked out nicely," explains a camper.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Several campgrounds near Allegan have spotty cell service. At Kal-Haven Outpost, one camper noted, "Cellular data was poor in the campground and on the beach - we needed a 5-minute drive to get good Verizon coverage."
Site spacing differences: Campground layouts vary significantly in the region. "The sites and the roads in the campground are all dirt so while we were there it was exceptionally dusty. I could imagine that when they have a lot of rain, it is exceptionally muddy," reports a visitor to Kal-Haven Outpost.
Limited services: Hungry Horse Campground receives praise for its amenities but requires planning. "While there we over heard them planning a craft event (horse pool noodles) they said they paid $3.00 for all supplies combined and planned on charging each child $4.00! They could careless if people drive the wrong way on their roads," notes one critical reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Youth activities: Camp Michawana caters specifically to families with children. "This campsite is perfect for children! They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall," shares an enthusiastic parent.
Smaller campgrounds for beginners: Hungry Horse Campground offers a manageable size for families new to camping. "Cute little campground in a small town in Dorr, Michigan. Lots of activities, swimming, wagon rides, jump pad, and more. Facilities were fairly clean and easily accessible," notes one visitor.
Beach access considerations: When glamping with children in Allegan area, consider the walk to water features. At Covert Park Beach & Campground, a parent explained: "They do have two separate paths to the lake, one stair case (several steps) and other was a flat path 100 yards or so then maybe 10 steps down to beach. The flat path had a lot of traffic from daily users."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Fort Custer Recreation Area, "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," cautions one RVer. Plan accordingly for water and sewer needs.
Pull-through availability: Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday offers easier access for larger rigs. "Good spots for RV/pull behind/tents. Clean facilities and only a 20 min drive from South Haven's beautiful beaches!" notes a camper.
Seasonal considerations: RV glamping near Allegan requires advance planning. At Hidden Ridge RV Resort, a visitor observed: "All sites are good size sites with a cement pad and very green grass. It is also very well run and maintained. One downside to this place is there is not much shade. Most of the bigger trees are around the perimeter so most sites are in the sun all day."
