The Allegan State Game Area surrounds much of the camping regions near Allegan, Michigan, with over 50,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest and wetlands. The area sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Many campgrounds in this region are built around small inland lakes and ponds with sandy, level terrain that's ideal for RV camping.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Crooked Lake Campground and RV Park offers direct lake access for anglers. "I had a great spot overlooking the lake and next to the boat launch. Campsites are spacious, there are two vault toilets and a water pump," notes a visitor. The interconnected waterways allow paddlers to "start at Crooked Lake and follow a little water trail to Pickerel to swim at a small beach."
Family water activities: The Hidden Ridge RV Resort includes multiple water recreation options. A camper reports, "Some of the things they have to do are swimming pool, playground, basketball courts, fishing, kayaking, jump pad, and lots of paved roads for bike riding." Kids particularly enjoy the on-site pond, as another camper mentions, "There is a pond for cat and release fishing, and a great slip and slide for the kids on a hot day."
Biking trails: The Kalamazoo area provides excellent cycling opportunities near camping bases. According to one Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday visitor, "The campground is only about 14 miles from South Haven where you can shop in a charming downtown, go to a spacious beach or catch the Kal-Haven bike trail to Kalamazoo. We rode 47 miles round trip from Bloomingdale to Bell's Brewery in Kalamazoo."
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many RV parks in the Allegan area feature concrete pads and full hookups. A camper at Eastpointe RV Resort shares, "They pick up your trash right from the front of your sight and deliver fire wood right to the fire pit. The pool and hot tub are always very clean. They have a lovely view here of the river."
Blueberry picking: Unique agricultural experiences surround several campgrounds. As one visitor to Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday notes, "This KOA has blueberry fields everywhere on the property. For a period of time in summer and early fall, you can pick your own blueberries in the morning to have in your breakfast pancakes!"
Clean facilities: Campground upkeep receives consistent praise from visitors. "All facilities were very clean. Nice place to walk around and get some exercise," remarks a Hidden Ridge RV Resort visitor. Similarly, a Covert/South Haven KOA reviewer states, "Bathrooms/showers are NICE! And it's only 10-15 minutes from the beach in South Haven-beautiful!"
What you should know
Off-season availability: While most campgrounds close between October and April, a few remain open. "We have really enjoyed our late July stay at Hidden Ridge. The amenities are really nice," mentions one visitor, though most parks in the area operate seasonally. An exception is Camp Turkeyville RV Resort, which operates year-round with full hookups.
Distance to services: Some campgrounds are relatively isolated. A Hidden Ridge visitor cautions, "There isn't much close to the campground at all. Like the closest gas station is 15 miles. Not really any fast food restaurants either. Obviously not a deal breaker, but just something to be prepared for."
Site spacing varies: Density between sites differs significantly between properties. While some reviewers praise the spacing at certain campgrounds, others note tighter arrangements: "Sites are small and it's tight maneuvering around but that's standard," notes one visitor to Woodchip Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated kids' activities: Woodchip Campground offers organized programs that families appreciate. "We came here for a fall camping weekend. Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride. Root beer floats Saturday night were great!" reports one visitor.
Playground proximity: Some campgrounds arrange sites strategically for families. A Woodchip Campground visitor notes, "There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play. The bathrooms are clean, the pool is great, and they always have fun activities for the kids!"
Rental options: For families needing transportation around larger properties, golf carts are popular. A Hidden Ridge visitor explains, "Because of the size of this campground most people get around by golf cart. We rented a golf cart from them, which our kids had a blast just going for rides around the campground."
Tips from RVers
Resort-style amenities: RVers seeking full-service facilities have several options near Allegan. One Eastpointe RV Resort visitor states, "Definitely glamping. Brand new facilities. Close to downtown. Sites available right on the river. Only downside is the sites are close together."
Shade considerations: Tree coverage varies significantly between properties. A Hidden Ridge RV visitor notes, "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. Overall we had a great time though and would definitely go back."
Sunday departure timing: While not mentioned in campground listings, Sunday mornings can be congested at dump stations. Plan accordingly, especially during peak season when facilities may be at maximum capacity and checkout times create bottlenecks at service points.
