Glamping sites close to Fennville, Michigan provide rustic accommodations within minutes of Lake Michigan's eastern shore. The area sits amid Michigan's fruit belt, with elevations between 600-700 feet above sea level in gently rolling terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with high humidity common from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking on local waterways: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers river access and camping opportunities along the Kalamazoo River system. "We kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for," notes Jeremy K. The campsite is "close to the river but set back far enough so that during a downpour you won't be worrying."
Fishing at Hidden Ridge: The resort maintains a stocked catch-and-release pond for campers. "There is a pond for cat and release fishing, and a great slip and slide for the kids on a hot day," writes Greg N. The facilities are well-maintained for family fishing activities without leaving the campground.
Beach time at Covert Park: Located directly on Lake Michigan, Covert Park Beach & Campground provides immediate shoreline access. "Sunset views were beautiful. Bathrooms were very clean and showers nice and hot," says Jessica D. The beach access involves either a staircase with multiple steps or a flat path with approximately 10 steps at the end.
Biking the Kal-Haven Trail: Black River Trails Campground offers proximity to regional biking routes. "This was a great little campground near South Haven, MI," reports Phil M., noting its convenient location as "a perfect location to camp at night then drive to South Haven Beach (maybe 10 min drive if that)."
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Kal-Haven Outpost receives consistent praise for their bathhouse. "The nicest bathrooms and showers I have ever seen at a campground," writes upperhunt8@gmail.com. Another camper describes them as "super clean and updated bathrooms" with convenient access from all sites.
Spacious tent sites: Many campers appreciate the generous sizing of tent camping areas. "The tent camping (where we stayed) had the largest campsite I've ever camped on for tents," notes a Kal-Haven Outpost reviewer. Options range from "no shade, some shade, or deep woods" depending on preference.
Proximity to Lake Michigan: Covert Park Beach & Campground provides direct lake access. "Lake Michigan is right there! We walked down to sunset and it was a 5 min walk max," explains Melissa M. The beach access includes two separate paths—one with stairs and another with a flatter approach.
Prepared camping amenities: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers convenience for those seeking a glamping-style experience. "It had air mattresses made up with sheets and blankets, all the firewood provided, a grill full of charcoal. A great way to enjoy the outdoors!!!" reports Karlina L.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds around Fennville have spotty connectivity. A camper at Covert Park noted: "Be prepared for zero cell service unless you go up the road!" This affects most carriers throughout the rural areas between South Haven and Fennville.
Bathroom conditions vary: At Hidden Ridge RV Resort, "All facilities were very clean," according to Julie T. However, other campgrounds receive mixed reviews, with Black River Trails getting feedback that "Bathrooms and showers were rustic, needed more cleaning."
Reservation timing: Peak season fills quickly at most glamping sites. For Covert/South Haven KOA, reservations often book 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends. Their operational season runs "Apr 17 to Oct 18" according to their listing.
Trash disposal policies: Hidden Ridge has centralized trash collection rather than site pickup. "I found it odd the there isn't trash pickup at the site. And the only trash bin we could find was at the entrance of the grounds," notes Beth H., mentioning this as unusual for resorts of this caliber.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday features multiple water-based amenities. "Heated pool and lots of activities for kids," reports Amy J. The KOA also offers seasonal programming specifically designed for children of different age groups.
Recreational variety: Hidden Ridge RV Resort provides numerous options for families. A camper describes: "Pool, splash pad, arcade, bounce pad, playground, outdoor sports area, hayrides, crafts, store, pond for fishing, golf cart rental." These activities run throughout the camping season.
Quieter midweek stays: For families seeking less crowded experiences, timing matters. Jessica D. observed at Covert Park: "We stayed Sunday to Saturday, so we got to see it at its bustling weekend peak and the quiet, cozy weekday vibe." Weekdays typically see 30-40% fewer campers across most sites near Fennville.
Blueberry picking opportunities: The South Haven KOA offers unique agricultural experiences. "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!" writes Cindy B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Lake Macatawa Campground, site location impacts camping experience. "Bigish shaded sites around site 98. Near relatively new bathhouse," notes Renee G., while another camper advises that "sites on the east end are larger and more comfortable" than those on the west end.
Hookup variations: Electrical service differs across campgrounds. Lake Macatawa provides "electricity only - no water or sewer in campsites," according to Georgeann D. Most sites offer 30-amp service, with select locations providing 50-amp connections at premium rates.
Campground roads: Surface conditions impact RV navigation. Cindy B. observed at Kal-Haven Outpost: "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."
Maneuverability challenges: Some campgrounds present navigation difficulties. Jennifer S. noted about Covert Park: "There are two loops and both are tight, which made it difficult to maneuver." Larger rigs over 30 feet should confirm site accessibility when booking.
