Michigan's west coast offers unique glamping opportunities within a short drive of Holland. The area sits at a modest elevation of 600-700 feet above sea level with Lake Michigan's shoreline featuring sandy beaches and forested dunes. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while winters bring significant lake-effect snow. Spring and fall provide comfortable camping conditions with fewer crowds at many locations.
What to do
Lake access activities: Grand Haven State Park Campground provides direct beach access for swimming and water activities. "This is a cool campground to come hang out at one of the most beautiful beaches in Michigan, and provides the unique experience of actually camping ON the beach, which is something you don't get to do with 95% of the campgrounds on Michigan's coast," notes Ryan L.
Trail exploration: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers multiple trail options for hikers and kayakers. "We kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for," explains Jeremy K. The property includes walking trails through natural areas with minimal development.
Cycling adventures: Kal-Haven Outpost connects directly to the Kal-Haven Trail for bikers. "This was a nice campground right on the Kal Haven Trail - about 4 miles from South Haven. There were some very nice woods with paths leading to the Kal Haven and around the campground," explains Cindy B.
Winter activities: Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park offers year-round glamping with winter sports options. "Across the road is the Winter complex, sledding, skating, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and luge course. Our kids had a blast here, they have tons of bonfire pits as well," reports Melissa M.
What campers like
Private beach access: Covert Park Beach & Campground offers a less crowded beach experience. "This was amazing place to stay. The people were very friendly. Everything was clean. And it was quiet and peaceful and the beach was absolutely beautiful," shares Rylie R., highlighting the more secluded experience compared to busier state parks.
Clean facilities: Black River Trails Campground maintains well-kept shower and bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms and showers were some of the cleanest I've seen while camping. Loved having lots of neighbors but appreciated the quiet when everyone left before our second night," notes Caitlynn H.
Seasonal activities: Hidden Ridge RV Resort provides organized events throughout the camping season. "They have themed weekends filled with activities for both adults and children and have a pool, pizza and ice cream, jumping pillow, clubhouse, fishing, playground, dog park, and so much more," explains Cheyanne P.
Family-friendly amenities: Hungry Horse Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "We have two young girls and they had plenty to do all week during our stay. Multiple playgrounds, toddler pool and regular pool, jump pad, and lots of room to run around," says Jeremy D.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Lake Macatawa Campground at Holland State Park features different site configurations. "Bigish shaded sites around site 98. Near relatively new bathhouse. 98 is near the road but it's not too noticeable except when the same loud obnoxious vehicles goes by every early evening," notes Renee G.
Reservation requirements: Grand Haven State Park Campground requires advance planning. "This campground is EXTREMELY hard to get into on the weekends. If you are planning a trip to Grand Haven State Park, be sure to log onto the State Reservation site six months to the date that you want to camp," advises Stephanie C.
Alcohol restrictions: Several state parks near Holland prohibit alcohol consumption. "This is a nice state campground with 211 sites in Holland. There is no alcohol allowed. It is hard to get into this campground so make your reservations early," explains Lydia T.
Parking and access: Campgrounds close to Lake Michigan often have specific parking configurations. "It's clean. It's well laid out. It's well staffed. It's near Holland, MI and Lake Michigan beaches. It has electricity only - no water or sewer in campsites," shares Georgeann D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Hungry Horse Campground offers structured activities for children. "Cute little campground in a small town in Dorr, Michigan. Lots of activities, swimming, wagon rides, jump pad, and more. Facilities were fairly clean and easily accessible," reports Vivianne M.
Beach safety considerations: Covert Park Beach provides both step access and flat paths to the water. "They do have 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," notes Melissa M.
Special events: Grand Haven offers additional attractions beyond camping. "Grand Haven is a tourist destination. Known for its beautiful beaches, great restaurant's, and small town shops. The State Park is not at all roughing it but makes up for that in views of sunset and beach front camp sites," describes Ryan B.
Weather preparation: Lake Michigan Campground allows for winter camping with proper planning. "We went in March so the weather was cold but doable. 20 degrees at night but with electricity hookups we put a space heater in our tent. Campsites are nice no running water at that time of year & only primitive outhouses," advises Les S.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Sites often have specific utility configurations. "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," recommends Melissa M.
Level sites: Hidden Ridge RV Resort provides consistent site quality. "All sites are good size sites with a cement pad and very green grass. It is also very well run and maintained," shares Clint. The resort focuses on creating uniform camping experiences.
Weekend planning: Multiple campgrounds near Holland require early reservations for weekends. "We were traveling back from the UP and always wanted to stay in this campground. The camp spots are flat, back to a playground (Amazing For kids) 3 min walk to the beach and pier," notes Tanner G.
