Ely Lake Campground provides primitive camping options near Holland, Michigan with a focus on equestrian use. The campground sits within the Allegan Forest area where temperatures typically range from 25-85°F throughout the camping season. Sites accommodate various camping styles including tent and RV camping with limited amenities in a rustic setting.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Fort Custer Recreation Area, visitors can fish in multiple lakes. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," notes Bob B., who spent childhood summers at the park.
Swimming at nearby beaches: Lake Michigan beaches are accessible from several campgrounds. "The beaches of Lake Michigan are within 15 minutes or so," mentions Rodney D. from Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday.
Trail exploration: Hiking networks connect throughout most horse campgrounds near Holland, Michigan. James K. describes Ely Lake: "There is about a 1 mile trail that you can walk around the exterior of the Lake, however it is ill defined in some places so just keep your eyes peeled for yellow markers on the trees."
Horseback riding: Horse trails wind through the region's state forests. "They have horse campsites and trails," reports Suzi K., who has been camping at Ely Lake for over 40 years.
Non-motorized boating: Several lakes offer quiet paddling experiences. "The Lake is for non-motorized recreational use so it is mostly used for kayaking and canoeing and fishing," explains James K. from Ely Lake Campground.
What campers like
Natural setting: Primitive camping in forested areas provides a genuine outdoor experience. "It is a beautiful rustic campground," shares James K. about Ely Lake Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Family campgrounds offer organized events for children. "There are a lot of lodging options, tons of kids activities, both free and for a small fee, great pool, cafe and store!" says Melissa B. about South Haven KOA.
Multi-generational appeal: Some campgrounds maintain their charm across decades. "Been coming here since 1969 when I was 4 yrs. old. Nothing changed, just good ole wilderness camping!" remarks James C. about Ely Lake.
Lake views: Waterfront sites create peaceful camping experiences. "The cabins are clean and nice, the view of the lake is beautiful. My 6 children had a great time here," notes Nora M. about Scalley Lake Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: The forested setting supports diverse animal sightings. "Seen lots of wildlife. Very relaxing time in our pop up not too far from Grand Rapids," says Joanie C. about Double RR Ranch.
What you should know
Rustic facilities: Many horse campgrounds feature minimal amenities. "Keyword: RUSTIC... no electric, no running water, no sewer/septic, no dump, no fill... Can run your generator(inverter type is best). Solar is a negative due to tree cover," explains TheSydliks about Fort Custer.
Water concerns: Some campgrounds have water quality issues. "I would recommend bringing your own drinking water because the water from the hand pump is very discolored," advises James K. about Ely Lake.
Noise levels: Weekend activity can disturb quiet seekers. "It is a wonderful experience until about 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday night. This place attracts a rowdy crowd and in the evenings," warns James K. from Ely Lake Campground.
Reservation systems: Some equestrian campsites work on first-come, first-served basis. "Pay for site by money drop in tube so bring your check book," advises Ellen S. about Ely Lake Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies throughout camping season. "Sites need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent," cautions Cathy Y. about Fort Custer State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Trail activities for kids: Family-friendly hiking routes suit various ages. "We went back there recently and loved it just like when I was a kid!" shares Skip C. about his return to Ely Lake after 25 years.
Quiet water recreation: Non-motorized lakes provide safe environments for children. "Lake is great for kayaking. Miles of trails to wander and discover," suggests Ellen S. about Ely Lake.
Family accommodations: Some locations offer cabin options for non-tent campers. "My family who are not necessarily 'outdoorsy' love that they can sleep in an air conditioned cabin with cable!" explains Lisa P. about Covert/South Haven KOA.
Playground access: Play areas supplement natural recreation. "It has a pool and play areas, but the real attraction are the blueberry patches!" notes Cindy B. about Covert/South Haven KOA.
Animal interactions: Horse campgrounds near Holland provide unique experiences. "If you have kids that love horses, you may see some on the weekends," mentions James K. about Ely Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV parking varies by campground. "Sites range from small tent sites to fairly large, but the 'roads' inside the campground are tight so think twice before bringing the longer 5th wheels," advises TheSydliks about Duke Creek Campground.
Power availability: Electrical hookups differ between locations. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," reports VB S. about Fort Custer State Park.
Shade coverage: Tree density affects summer comfort. "We found a campsite that was large with vegetation separating us from neighbors," describes Art S. about his Fort Custer experience.
Dump station access: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long," warns Bob B. about Fort Custer.
River access for RVs: Some sites provide waterfront RV camping. "There is a river to explore and we always get a riverfront site. Rivers are just fun for fishing, throwing stones, canoeing," recommends Joanie C. about Double RR Ranch.
