Tent camping near West Olive, Michigan offers visitors access to the Lower Peninsula's temperate climate with average summer highs of 80°F and winter lows around 20°F. The area features a mix of inland lakes, Lake Michigan shoreline, and wooded dunes with elevation changes of 50-100 feet above the lakeshore. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though seasonal closures vary by location.
What to do
Hiking through dune forests: Muskegon State Park features multiple trail systems suitable for day hiking. According to a visitor at South Channel Campground, "Taking the kids out there June of 2022, it seemed very family friendly, and had clean facilities. The Staff was amazing! They all seemed college age, all were smiling and eager to help!"
Boat watching on the channel: Spend time observing watercraft traffic between Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan. A camper noted, "Great boat watching. Can watch boats go through channel from campsite, loved watching the lake express."
Blueberry picking: Visit Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday during summer months for on-site berry harvesting. "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!" wrote one reviewer.
Wildlife observation: The backcountry camping areas around West Olive provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite reported, "We kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for."
What campers like
Private beach access: Several campgrounds feature secluded water access points. A visitor to WaterTrail Ventures commented, "It was beautiful with solar lights at night and a private beach. Great swimming, in a very private area."
Spacious wooded sites: Campers appreciate the well-spaced tent sites at many locations. A reviewer at Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA noted, "Sites are fairly wooded (lots of pine trees) and not too crowded. The owners are super friendly - I love how the campground rules are written humorously."
Clean facilities: Many tent campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. According to a visitor, "The bathrooms and showers were super clean and someone was always in there keeping them that way."
Peaceful environment: Tent campers frequently mention the quiet atmosphere in reviews. One camper stated, "Very retro, quiet and peaceful. Marty is the sweetest lady. Don't look for lots to do, just sit back and relax."
What you should know
Early arrival fees: Some campgrounds charge additional fees for checking in before standard times. A camper at Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA warned, "Make sure you do not arrive before 2:00PM, 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."
Site sizes vary significantly: Tent sites range from spacious to extremely close together. One reviewer observed, "The campsites were VERY close together. It was actually the first thing we noticed as soon as we pulled through the gate."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Pine Point Campground and similar backcountry options provide minimal facilities. A visitor noted, "This is more suitable for tents or maybe small campers. Best access seems to be along 160th avenue south of Arthur road."
Seasonal water access: Water stations may be closed during shoulder seasons. Campers should verify availability when booking early or late season stays.
Tips for camping with families
Child-specific activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's programming. A visitor to Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday shared, "This campground is made for families. It has a pool and lots of activities for kids."
Playground and beach combinations: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. According to one review, "The kids love the activities and the pool and my family who are not necessarily 'outdoorsy' love that they can sleep in an air conditioned cabin with cable!"
Animal encounters: East Lake Camping and other sites provide controlled animal interactions. A camper at Allendale KOA mentioned, "My nephew loves the goats more than anything! Owners are great and we will keep coming back to this campground for sure!"
Activity equipment loans: Some campgrounds provide sports gear without additional fees. A reviewer noted, "Lots of sports equipment to loan as well. Not too big, very clean and well taken care of."
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Most tent camping sites around West Olive have minimal leveling. One camper noted, "The sites are well treed and flat! Lots of the activities within the park, they have a small petting zoo, sky pad, playground."
Reserved seating areas: Campgrounds generally provide picnic tables and fire rings at each site. A review mentioned, "Campsites have a paved parking pad, fire ring, electrical hookup, and picnic table."
Strict compliance enforcement: Some campgrounds actively monitor rule compliance. A visitor reported, "The rules handbook is 79 pages long. There will be no change so be aware of rules before buying a seasonal lot."
