Tent campsites near Alto, Michigan offer overnight options within western Michigan's mix of farmland and forested areas. The campgrounds operate primarily from May through October, with most closing after the first frost. Overnight temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer, making proper sleeping gear essential for comfort.
What to do
Swimming beaches: East Lake Camping features a small swimming beach and playground that campers find "lovely for day use." The campground sits amid rolling farmland within 40 minutes of Holland and Saugatuck, making it convenient for beach day trips without highway driving.
Wildlife viewing: Kayakers at WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite report exceptional nature experiences. One visitor noted they "kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for." The campground includes a private beach area set back from the river.
Horseback riding: While camping is no longer permitted at Allegan County Pine Point Campground & Equestrian Park, visitors can "day ride our horses from there" according to local riders. The park maintains trails suitable for both riding and hiking, with one visitor noting it has "nice trails good hunting" for those interested in seasonal hunting opportunities.
What campers like
Private camping setups: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers just three tent sites that provide exceptional privacy. A camper described it as "private, clean, and relaxing" with "solar lights at night and a private beach." The small size limits crowds and noise.
Clean facilities: Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA receives consistent praise for cleanliness. One visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers were super clean and someone was always in there keeping them that way." Another noted that "sites are well treed and flat!" providing good site conditions.
Unexpected comforts: Tent campers at Camp Clear Sky appreciate the unexpected amenities available. One camper mentioned the "outdoor kitchen with running water and flush toilet were unexpected amenities" that improved their tent camping experience. The site even features "chickens keeping us company" according to a recent visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Alto area campgrounds fill quickly in summer months. Woods and Water RV Resort gets booked well in advance but offers "spacious sites" that are "easy to back into" according to visitors. The resort includes a "wonderful little swim area with water slide" and hiking trails.
Seasonal differences: Most Alto area campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited winter options. The Allendale KOA remains open year-round but with reduced services during colder months. According to one visitor, the "sites are fairly wooded (lots of pine trees) and not too crowded."
Early arrival fees: Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA charges an early check-in fee for arrivals before 2:00 PM. One visitor warned: "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00 PM, as they require a $10 early registration fee. If you decide not to pay, you'll be directed to overflow parking where you can loiter until 2:00."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA offers numerous activities for children. A family noted they have "two parks, jump pad, and feeding the goats" that kept their young children busy. Another mentioned "the hayride, the night hayride, two parks" as highlights.
Swimming options: East Lake Camping provides a beach area particularly suitable for children. While a visitor noted they "took away some of the water toys they used to have like water slide and float," the swimming area remains popular for families with young children.
Protected camping sites: The sites at Woods and Water RV Resort provide good separation and privacy for families. A camper described it as "very quiet" with "lots of activities" and mentioned it has "wonderful trails for hiking" that families can enjoy together.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At East Lake Camping, RVers recommend requesting upper loop sites when possible. One camper noted: "There are more spacious sites available on the upper grassy loop" compared to the tighter lakefront areas which are primarily occupied by seasonal campers.
Arrival planning: When visiting Alto area campgrounds with an RV, plan travel timing carefully. Poor weather can make dirt access roads challenging. Several campgrounds including Camp Clear Sky and WaterTrail Ventures have limited spaces for larger rigs, so advance reservations are essential.
Amenities: RVers appreciate the full hookup sites available at Allendale KOA. A visitor mentioned they have a "well-stocked camp store" providing "everything we needed without having to leave the campground" and "massive bundles of wood available for just six bucks."
