Tent campsites near Grand Haven, Michigan range from primitive dispersed sites along the White River to full-service family campgrounds with private beaches. The region's sandy soil drains quickly, making most sites remain usable even after light rain. Summer nights typically cool to around 60°F, while daytime temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through August.
What to do
Water activities on Muskegon Lake: South Channel Campground provides direct access to both Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan. As one camper noted, "Just a walk from the beach. Miles of trails through the dunes and woods. A few lookout points scattered throughout" with sites offering "scattered trees and a decent amount of shade."
Goat viewing and animal encounters: Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA features a small petting zoo with goats that campers frequently mention. "My nephew loves the goats more than anything!" reports one reviewer, while another notes the campground has "Goats to visit, air-soft shooting range, large play structure, clean bathrooms, well kept and lengthy sites!"
Riverfront camping and paddling: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers paddling access with riverfront sites. A camper shared, "We kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for." Another mentioned it has a "private beach. Great swimming, in a very private area. It also has great trails for walking."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the secluded spots at WaterTrail Ventures, where one reviewer described it as "Private, clean, and relaxing... beautiful with solar lights at night and a private beach." The campground also provides "air mattresses made up with sheets and blankets, all the firewood provided, a grill full of charcoal."
Family-friendly activities: Woods and Water RV Resort receives praise for its recreational options. "Wonderful little swim area with water slide. Wonderful trails for hiking. Lots of activities," reports one camper. Others appreciate that "sites are spacious. Easy to back into. Very quite!"
Primitive camping along the White River: For those seeking more rustic experiences, White River Campsite #1 provides dispersed camping options. "There are dispersed options as well as docked site. It's in a forest, so bring a compass if you plan to do some hiking," advises one camper. Another explains, "This is the White River special area of the Manistee National Forest. While there are numbered campsites, there are no facilities or amenities."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: South Channel Campground fills quickly during summer months. Multiple campers advise to "Reserve early" as the campground gets very busy.
Early check-in fees at some campgrounds: At Allendale KOA, one camper cautions, "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."
Campground size and layout considerations: East Lake Camping has limited waterfront sites available for non-seasonal campers. A recent visitor noted, "Most people here are seasonal, occupying almost all the lakefront sites. We may have seen one lakefront available for renters." The same camper observed "The sites are very small, not much privacy, but well kept."
Tips for camping with families
Prioritize campgrounds with activities: Allendale KOA has numerous family-oriented features. "The pool was clean and we had a lot on the pond. All of those sites were good size for small trailer," one family noted. Another shared, "We found this campground last minute... We have two girls of the age of five so the pool, the hayride, the night hayride, two parks, jump pad, and feeding the goats kept them busy."
Beach access options: For families wanting lake swimming, several campgrounds offer alternatives to crowded public beaches. A camper at Oak Knoll Family Campground reported, "Small playground, a beach for swimming is close but not on the campground," while still rating it as "an awesome camping experience with our four kids."
Pet-friendly amenities: Allendale KOA accommodates family pets with dedicated spaces. According to one reviewer, "Pets are welcome here with two fenced dog runs and trails to keep the owners exercised."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and shade: When selecting RV sites near Grand Haven, shade coverage varies significantly. At South Channel Campground, one RVer warned that sites are "VERY close together. It was actually the first thing we noticed as soon as we pulled through the gate," but noted "Restroom & shower facilities were relatively clean & well maintained."
Hookup options: Woods and Water RV Resort provides full-service sites with positive reviews for ease of access. A camper reported the "sites are spacious. Easy to back into," making it suitable for larger rigs.
Check campground rules carefully: Some campgrounds have strict policies. At Sandy Pines RV Resort, a reviewer cautions "There are SO many rules, however these rules are not consistently enforced leaving you often confused," and noted the campground handbook is "79 pages long."
