RV sites near Benton Harbor, Michigan offer convenient access to Lake Michigan beaches and southwestern Michigan's rural landscape. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder temperatures ideal for camping. The camping season generally runs from April through October with most facilities closing for winter due to Michigan's cold lake-effect snow.
What to do
Visit the local beaches: Within 15 minutes of Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday, campers can access Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline. "Very close to Lake Michigan and the beach!" notes Katie S., who found the location convenient for beach day trips.
Explore local fruit farms: The region is known for its abundant fruit crops, particularly blueberries. At Covert/South Haven KOA, visitors can pick their own berries. "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!" shares Cindy B.
Discover historical sites: Eden Springs Park Campground offers unique historical exploration opportunities. "There's a lot of interesting history here. It was a cult at one time, there used to be a vegan restaurant and an ice cream parlor, and there was a hotel here at one point as well," explains one visitor who appreciated the informative signage throughout the grounds.
What campers like
Train rides for children: Several campgrounds offer special train rides that families enjoy. "They have a pool and playground area, nice size lots with fire pits, picnic tables, electric & water (including at tent sites)... a creek that meanders through it," notes Gay G. about Bear Cave RV Campground, adding it has "a real bear cave you can tour in (free)."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the cleanliness of facilities. "The shower house is so so nice and clean! Amazing amenities. Large sites that are level! Our favorite campground," writes Candace H. about Bear Cave RV Campground.
Water recreation options: Fishing opportunities and water access rank high with campers. "Great kayaking and fishing campground! Bathrooms need work but I have my own so it didn't really affect me. Beautiful area and really nice campsites," reports Rhonda B. about her experience at Thousand Trails Bear Cave.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Mobile connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. "No internet, pool needs repaired, no cell service... nice river fishing, nice stream scenery, big rec center," notes Dawn T. about Thousand Trails Bear Cave.
Site availability constraints: Many RV parks have significant numbers of seasonal residents. Jerry S. explains that at Bear Cave, "The only sewer hook-ups are all taken by seasonal campers."
Seasonal operation: Most motorhome facilities in the area operate from spring through fall. Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday runs from April 17 to October 18, offering 166 sites during their operating season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's programming. "This campground is made for families. It has a pool and lots of activities for kids," says Amy J. about Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday, which many families choose for its organized events.
Playgrounds and recreation: Elkhart RV Resort features family-friendly amenities. "The sites are tight, but it didn't feel cramped. Facilities are older but clean and the amenities for kids are great," says Brian H., noting the reliable WiFi for parents who need to work during family camping trips.
Weekend entertainment: Many campgrounds offer scheduled weekend activities. "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," reports Cassie B. about her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For large rigs, Eden Springs Park offers spacious 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," shares Bart S. who appreciated the park's design.
Full hookup availability: Sunny Brook RV Resort provides concrete pads with full hookups. "The is a great place to stay. All concrete, gated, beach in a small lake, basketball court, fishing, pools, and lots of grass for the dogs. Laundry rooms and bathrooms spotless," reports Bill B.
Big rig considerations: Some RV parks have challenges for larger motorhomes. Bear Cave campers note sites can be tight for larger rigs, with some low-hanging branches that may cause issues for taller vehicles.