Tent camping options near Kentwood, Michigan offer multiple settings within a 45-minute drive radius. The area sits at an elevation of 760 feet with flat to gently rolling terrain and receives about 37 inches of rainfall annually. Most campgrounds remain open from May through October, with July temperatures averaging 82°F during the day and 61°F at night.
What to do
Water activities on inland lakes: East Lake Camping provides access to a small lake with a swimming beach that's perfect for cooling off during summer months. A camper noted that "kids loved the beach and play area," though they mentioned that "they took away some of the water toys they used to have like water slide and float which was disappointing for the older kids."
Hiking nearby trails: The South Channel Campground offers "miles of trails through the dunes and woods" with "a few lookout points scattered throughout," making it ideal for day hikes directly from your campsite.
Boat watching opportunities: Campsites at South Channel Campground provide unique boat-watching opportunities as "you can watch boats go through channel from campsite," with one camper specifically enjoying "watching the lake express" as vessels pass through.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: The Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA features "sites that are well treed and flat" according to campers, with one reviewer noting the campground is "very nice compared to some others we've been to. Sites are fairly wooded (lots of pine trees) and not too crowded."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance standards at campgrounds near Kentwood. A visitor to Allendale KOA mentioned "the showers are clean and spacious" while another praised "the clean restrooms and full-service showers" as highlights of their stay.
Family-friendly amenities: Camp Clear Sky offers unexpected amenities that elevate the tent camping experience, with one camper appreciating the "outdoor kitchen with running water and flush toilet" as "unexpected amenities" along with "chickens keeping us company!"
What you should know
Early arrival policies: Some campgrounds have strict check-in policies. At Allendale KOA, one camper warned to "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 spacing varies greatly: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers a more secluded experience with only three designated tent sites, described by a visitor as "private, clean, and relaxing" and "beautiful with solar lights at night and a private beach."
Seasonal operation: Most tent camping options near Kentwood operate seasonally. East Lake Camping is typically open "May 1 to Oct 1" while Drews Country Camping runs from "Apr 1 to Oct 31," making advance planning essential.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: The Allendale-West Grand Rapids KOA received praise from families, with one camper sharing "we love this little KOA and camp here often with family who stay in the cabins... the activities are super fun and the pool is a nice size for the kids. My nephew loves the goats more than anything!"
Wildlife viewing: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers unique wildlife encounters, with one camper who "kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for," making it perfect for nature-loving families.
Budget management: Bringing your own entertainment can help manage costs. Some campgrounds charge for activities, with one East Lake camper noting that prices were "going up hill as their prices go up" and suggesting to bring your own water toys.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Drews Country Camping, RVers should know it's "a sweet little family-owned park just outside Holland with about 30 grassy sites that feel more like someone's big backyard than an actual campground." This helps set expectations for the camping experience.
Spacing considerations: The South Channel Campground can feel crowded for larger rigs, with one RVer noting sites were "VERY close together. It was actually the first thing we noticed as soon as we pulled through the gate." Consider this when seeking the best tent camping near Kentwood, Michigan if you value privacy.
Seasonal sites: Many campgrounds near Kentwood have a high percentage of seasonal campers. At Sandy Pines RV Resort, one visitor noted that "if you have a large camper, you can only get a spot in phase 3, which is really far away from all of the fun activities" because "they pack the seasonal lots in so tight."
