Tent sites at Covert Park Beach & Campground offer varying levels of seclusion with surprising space between them, though rules are strictly enforced regarding site occupancy limits. The campground sits in a small valley between Lake Michigan dunes and inland hills, creating a unique microclimate that can affect camping conditions. Cell service is limited throughout the area, with patchy coverage at most campgrounds near Covert.
What to do
Beach access during high water levels: The beach at Covert Park Beach & Campground has been affected by rising Lake Michigan water levels, but remains accessible via two paths. "There are two separate paths to the lake, one stair case (several steps) and other was a flat path 100 yards or so then maybe 10 steps down to beach. The flat path had a lot of traffic from daily users," reports Melissa M.
Explore historical sites: Visit Eden Springs Park Campground to discover restored buildings from the late 1800s. "What I liked about it was you could walk around the campgrounds and learn about it from the signage," explains Daniel B. The grounds incorporate history of the House of David religious community with interesting architecture and buildings under restoration.
River fishing: The St. Joseph River offers excellent fishing opportunities with specialized facilities. At Shamrock Park, "What impressed me most was that they have a building specifically for cleaning fish, with scales, cutting boards and sinks," shares Brian O.
U-pick blueberries: Seasonal berry picking is available within walking distance of several campgrounds. A camper at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA noted, "We rode 47 miles round trip from Bloomingdale to Bell's Brewery in Kalamazoo."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Kal-Haven Outpost receives consistent praise for its maintenance standards. According to upperhunt8@gmail.com, "The nicest bathrooms and showers I have ever seen at a campground." Another camper mentioned, "Our site was horrid- a full hook up with a fire pit in the mud pond."
Outdoor washing stations: Several campgrounds offer specialized washing areas. At Shamrock Park, "Another nice feature is the outdoor sink at the shower & restroom building for campers to wash dishes. As tent campers I wish more places had a set up like that," notes Brian O.
Direct trail access: Cyclists appreciate campgrounds connected to regional trails. "A group of us bike from Kalamazoo to South Haven every year using the Kal-Haven trail. We usually tent camp but tried a cabin here this year. It was the perfect option as the campground is right off the trail," shares R.B.
Yurt camping options: Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday has recently added yurts to their accommodation options. "They had a hot tub and heated pool. Mini golf and bikes you could rent," notes Katie S. Yurt camping near Covert, Michigan provides a comfortable alternative to traditional tent camping.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Covert Park Beach & Campground, "Cellular data was poor in the campground and on the beach - we needed a 5-minute drive to get good Verizon coverage," reports Chris M.
Strict alcohol policies: Warren Dunes State Park enforces a no-alcohol policy. "If you think the rangers don't enforce that rule, you're wrong. Our neighbors got busted for it when we were there," warns Dave E.
RV hookup placement challenges: Some sites have awkward utility layouts. "The map was not true to date and most sites the electrical box and water hook up is on the wrong side of the site. Bring extra line... we have 50ft hose so we were fine there (line goes through the middle of the site) and 25ft electrical and had to re-adjust the camper a few times so it would reach," advises Melissa M.
Day-use visitor impact: Beach access points can become crowded with non-campers. "The campground allows anyone to buy daily passes for the beach so the beach can get crowded. Lots of traffic in and out," mentions Melissa M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Black River Trails Campground offers family-friendly activities with solid basic amenities. One camper said, "Bathrooms and showers were rustic, needed more cleaning. Overall a good stay."
Shower privacy considerations: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, and some have communal layouts. "Cinderblock walls, and ineffective fans make for a pretty swampy experience, but it IS a camp bathroom," reports Jennifer O.
Weekend activity scheduling: Many campgrounds offer organized events primarily on weekends. At Bear Cave RV Campground, visitors can "take a tour of" the actual cave on the property, and one camper mentioned "a variety of things to do from fishing to the game room. Great family getaway."
Swimming options beyond beaches: When Lake Michigan is too rough or cold, look for campgrounds with pools. "They have a pool and playground area, but the real attraction are the blueberry patches!" shares a camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain issues that affect RVs. At Warren Dunes State Park Campground, "The bigger loop (30-64) have some crazy un-level sites mixed in, but most were fine. Make sure to call and check on specific sites," advises Chris M.
Dust and mud management: Weather conditions can significantly impact campground roads. One camper observed, "The sites and the roads in the campground are all dirt so while we were there it was exceptionally dusty. I could imagine that when they have a lot of rain, it is exceptionally muddy."
Pull-through site availability: Kal-Haven Outpost offers convenient site layouts for easier access. "All spots are pull through. And all spots are close to the bathrooms," notes Kit S. For those interested in yurt camping near Covert, Michigan, several campgrounds now offer these structures as alternatives to RVs.
Seasonal site considerations: Long-term campers often occupy the most desirable sites. At Bear Cave, "The only sewer hook-ups are all taken by seasonal campers," points out Jerry S.
