Camping sites near Benton Harbor, Michigan spread across a region of rolling dunes and forested areas with elevations ranging from 580 to 780 feet above sea level. The local microclimate created by Lake Michigan moderates temperatures, typically keeping summer highs between 75-85°F while creating lake effect snow in winter. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though water systems at most facilities shut down from November through March.
What to do
Kayaking on St. Joseph River: Launch directly from Shamrock Park in Berrien Springs where the riverfront provides excellent fishing access. "The campground is right on the water-perfect for kayaking or fishing. There's also all sorts of activities for kids-ping pong, basketball, cornhole and more," notes Ken.
Train rides at historic grounds: Eden Springs Park features weekend miniature train rides circling the historic grounds. "Our kids ride around the circle on their bikes, they love the train rides, its always fun to walk around the grounds and learn about the history," says David about the unique attraction.
Explore caves and waterfalls: Thousand Trails Bear Cave offers an unusual camping experience with its namesake natural cave and adjacent waterfall. "They have a naturally formed cave that you can go down into for a small fee. A variety of things to do from fishing to the game room," explains Ryan H.
Blueberry picking: Several campgrounds incorporate working blueberry fields. "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!" reports Cindy B. about the Covert/South Haven KOA.
What campers like
Beach access without crowds: While Warren Dunes gets busy, Weko Beach Campground offers a less congested Lake Michigan experience. "The entire campground is wooded with huge trees, which we loved. The best part, though, was having the beach 2 min from our doorstep," says Cathleen.
Clean, modern bathhouses: Multiple campgrounds have invested in bathroom facilities. "The bathroom was a very short walk and very clean. Fishing the river was fun and easy to access," mentions Erik O. about his Shamrock Park experience.
Dog-friendly options: Several parks welcome pets with dedicated amenities. "If you travel with dogs, it's a great campground! There are water pumps and outhouse restrooms on the rustic sites," Amy G. notes about Warren Dunes State Park.
Lake swimming alternatives: Dune Lake Campground provides water recreation without Lake Michigan crowds. "Nice swimming lake with a shallow area that's great for kids. Quiet, family oriented and well maintained," explains Dan W.
What you should know
Strict alcohol policies: Several state parks prohibit alcohol entirely. "One setback was that you can't bring alcohol into the park. I wasn't planning on getting tanked or anything, but it would've been nice to drink a beer around the fire. And if you think the rangers don't enforce that rule, you're wrong," warns Dave E. about Warren Dunes.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies dramatically across the region. "No internet, no cell service. If you do not get a full hook up, you have to pay $15 to get pumped out," Dawn T. mentions about Bear Cave Campground.
Beach conditions change annually: Lake Michigan water levels fluctuate significantly. "The beach is washing away, black sand for most of it, maybe due to storm. Still plenty when we went 7/2020 for kids to play," reports Melissa M. about Covert Park Beach.
Sand management challenges: Covert Park Beach & Campground sites can be challenging for tent campers. "The site is situated in a little valley between the dunes and the hills of town. The sites are surprisingly large, but the rules are insanely strict - this is definitely a site catering to RV campers not tent campers," observes Jennifer O.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: KOA locations specialize in family entertainment. "Very clean and well-kept park. Lots of fun activities on the weekends for the kids and FREE! They have movie nights, we met Disney characters, did crafts, and enjoyed the barrel train & ice cream sundaes," says Cassie B. about Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday.
Beach hiking with children: Van Buren State Park connects camping to dunes exploration. "Our family enjoyed this quiet, secluded campground in South Haven. Our site was on a corner lot and couldn't have been more perfect for our stay. Large fire pit and picnic table available at every site. There is a small path that leads to the beach," mentions Heather Q.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be dramatic, especially in spring and fall. "There is a path to the beach for walking but it is a long walk. We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. A kind family drove us half the distance. Plan on driving your stuff to the beach or taking bicycles," recommends Heidi S.
Off-beach alternatives: When weather turns poor, local attractions provide backup options. "We spent 5 days here in June. The campground is clean, the wi-fi is great. The pool and playground area is nicely laid out. We ordered food from the store and they brought it right to our site," notes Rodney D.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Sandy terrain creates unique setup situations. "This campground is not paved since it is in and amongst the dunes. Therefore, the soil is sandy and often soft. We got our airstream stuck using our 2 wheel drive truck and needed the help of a 4x4 to get us out. Some sites are flat while others are on a hill," warns Kelsey G. from Van Buren State Park Campground.
RV site selection: Eden Springs Park offers specifically designed pull-through sites. "The sites are large, level and spaced far apart from each other. We pulled in with a 42' rig, pulling a 28' hybrid trailer (total 70') and easily pulled into our site without having to unhook," reports Bart S.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies significantly between campgrounds. "When I got here I realized that there is a single electric post shared by 4 campsites and the water spigot was across the road and I couldn't access it. Only the sites towards the front half of the campground have dedicated water and electricity," notes Landon C.
Seasonal site competition: Many lakefront campgrounds have limited full-hookup availability. "The only sewer hook-ups are all taken by seasonal campers," Jerry S. points out about Bear Cave, reflecting a common situation at waterfront campgrounds throughout the region.
