Berrien Springs camping sites dot the shorelines of the St. Joseph River at 600-700 feet elevation. The area sees warm summers with temperatures averaging 80-85°F from June through August and cold winters dropping into the 20s. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with limited year-round options available during Michigan's snowy winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing the St. Joseph River: At Shamrock Park, campers have direct access to the river with dedicated fishing facilities. "They have a building specifically for cleaning fish, with scales, cutting boards and sinks," notes Brian O., who appreciated this unique amenity during his stay.
Sand dune exploration: Warren Dunes State Park Campground offers hiking trails leading to massive Lake Michigan dunes. "Mt. Randall is the high dune to climb but not for the faint of heart! And beware, the sand does get HOT midday," warns Heidi S. The park's shaded campsites provide relief after dune hiking.
Train rides and historical exploration: Eden Springs Park Campground features a historical mini-train operating weekends. "You can walk around the campground and check out the restoration on these early buildings, take a train ride with the kids around part of the grounds, and hang out in a large beer garden area and get mesmerized by a fountain," reports Daniel B.
Cave exploration: While glamping near Berrien Springs at Thousand Trails Bear Cave, visitors can tour an actual cave within the campground. Ryan H. shares, "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."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Shamrock Park receives consistent praise for its riverfront location. Ken notes, "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."
Clean facilities: Cleanliness stands out at many campgrounds. At Fuller's Resort, Sarah K. appreciated "showers, laundry, and better restroom facilities a short walk away. Mask wearing was very hit or miss... That being said, you make it what you want. We stayed to ourselves, wore masks when we were near others, and still had a very enjoyable time."
Family activities: Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday offers organized weekend events. "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," shares Cassie B.
Natural swimming areas: Lake options provide alternatives to Lake Michigan. At Fuller's Resort and Campground, Steve G. found "a beautiful beach with crystal clear water. (Clear Lake.... fits). Go during the week if you prefer less crowds."
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Warren Dunes State Park prohibits alcohol. Dave E. warns, "If you think the rangers don't enforce that rule, you're wrong. Our neighbors got busted for it when we were there."
High-demand weekends: Book well ahead during summer months. Dunewood Campground fills quickly from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "The campground was fully booked, but not everyone showed, meaning that it didn't really feel crowded there," notes Katie O.
Insects: Mosquitoes affect some sites more than others. At Eden Springs Park, Wendy T. recommends sites under shade trees, noting that "site 61 under some nice shade trees and the lot was very level. Park staff was very helpful after a storm blew through cleaning up limbs and litter."
Cell service gaps: Some campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Bear Cave RV Campground, Jack notes, "It's a very nice off the grid camping with no cell service but if you want wifi then it's 5.95 per day or if you're here for a week+ then 34.95 for the month up to 4 devices is your best bet."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Potato Creek State Park offers calmer water for young swimmers. Frank M. advises, "With dog friendly beaches, beginner MTB trails and paved bike paths, this checks all our boxes. Natural wetlands abound, so definitely bring the mosquito spray."
Site selection strategy: At Potato Creek, Frank M. recommends "securing a spot in the back sites 230-287 for larger lots and quieter atmosphere. Younger families tend to book up front near the playground and the noise and activities are more robust."
Budget activities: Shamrock Park offers affordable family entertainment. Erik O. reports, "They have big playgrounds that the kids enjoyed. Along with horseshoes, basketball, and volley ball courts."
Swimming alternatives: When Lake Michigan beaches get crowded, consider Clear Lake. Leslie M. recommends East Clear Lake Campground: "Beautiful Beach access to Clear lake!! Mark and Kirstin are awesome owners, tons of activities for kids!!"
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Spaulding Lake Campground offers convenient full hookups. Erwin Y. notes, "Very nice and quiet. 3 fishing ponds that are well stocked. Most lots pull thru and many shaded."
Extended stays: At Eden Springs Park Campground, Bart S. found excellent monthly rates: "We are spending the month of August here and have found the venue quiet, well maintained, friendly and inexpensive ($375 for a month)."
Hookup configurations: Eden Springs has a unique setup that Bart S. describes: "The sites are designed so that no camper or RV faces a sewer connection. All of the hook ups are centrally located between two sites, with each rig having their driver side towards the hookups."
Luxury glamping alternatives: For those seeking upscale glamping near Berrien Springs, Michigan without an RV, Thousand Trails Bear Cave offers glamping tents. Gay G. shares, "This is a nice, family friendly campground...electric & water (including at tent sites). Pool has an ADA lift chair."
