Camping areas near Macatawa, Michigan benefit from the region's unique position along Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline. The area features sandy dunes, wooded terrain, and proximity to both Lake Michigan and smaller inland lakes, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Many campsites sit among the region's distinctive forested dunes that formed over thousands of years from glacial deposits.
What to do
Beach access: Lake Macatawa Campground at Holland State Park provides direct access to Lake Michigan beaches. "Very typical of Michigan state parks. Tight sites with a nice fire ring. Great location with a walking path to Lake Michigan. Close to downtown Holland," notes Lindsey R.
Biking: Kal-Haven Outpost connects directly to the Kal-Haven Trail. A visitor shares, "This was a nice campground right on the Kal Haven Trail - about 4 miles from South Haven. The RV camping is in a circle in the center of the campground near the bathhouse with cabins and tent camping on the perimeter. There were some very nice woods with paths leading to the Kal Haven."
Water activities: WaterTrail Ventures Paddle Respite offers kayaking opportunities on local waterways. "We kayaked there from Allegan and was treated to more wildlife viewing opportunities than we could ask for," reports Jeremy K., adding that it's "definitely off the beaten path."
Winter recreation: Muskegon State Park Campground maintains winter facilities. "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
Quiet locations: Black River Trails Campground provides a peaceful setting near South Haven. One visitor noted, "Campground was quiet with few guests. The RV sites are situated closest to the road."
Sunset views: Muskegon County Pioneer County Park offers prime lakeside viewing spots. "The beach is a beautiful place to watch sunsets or see the moon over the lake. The spots are pretty close together but the ground is soft and flat. Choose a spot around the edge for some privacy," advises Jake N.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good bathroom facilities. At Grand Haven State Park, one camper praised, "The showers and facilities though are of the cleanest and well kept in all of Michigan's state parks."
Family amenities: Hungry Horse Campground features multiple recreational options. "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," shares Jeremy D.
What you should know
Reservation timing: State parks fill quickly during summer months. For Grand Haven State Park, "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."
Site spacing: Many campgrounds have closely spaced sites. At Lake Macatawa Campground, a camper noted it's "Expensive yet hard to get in," while another mentioned, "Typical State Park. Tight sites with a nice fire ring."
Alcohol policies: Some parks prohibit alcohol. At Lake Macatawa Campground, a visitor points out, "This is a nice state campground with 211 sites in Holland. There is no alcohol allowed."
Beach conditions: Water levels affect beaches. At Covert Park Beach & Campground, a camper observed, "Beach is washing away, black sand for most of it, maybe due to storm. Still plenty when we went 7/2020 for kids to play."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Grand Haven State Park, a camper mentioned, "The camp spots are flat, back to a playground (Amazing For kids) 3 min walk to the beach and pier."
Kid-friendly glamping options: For alternative glamping near Macatawa, Michigan, look beyond traditional tents. At Muskegon State Park, a reviewer shared, "Stayed in Mini Cabin #16 over New Years. Cabin sleeps 4 in 2 bunk beds. Mini frig, microwave and table with chairs. Electricity and heat. Great choice for winter camping."
Swimming options: Several parks offer water recreation beyond Lake Michigan. At Hungry Horse Campground, one family noted, "Nice smaller sized family friendly campground. Enjoyed having activities to do, the jump pillow and pool!"
Scheduled activities: Some campgrounds organize family events. According to a Hungry Horse visitor, "They also typically offer planned activities throughout the week such as wagon rides, meet and greets, and ice cream socials."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have specific areas best suited for RVs. At Kal-Haven Outpost, "The RV camping is in a circle in the center of the campground near the bathhouse with cabins and tent camping on the perimeter."
Utility hookup positioning: Check the layout before selecting sites. At Covert Park, a camper warned, "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."
Maneuverability concerns: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. A visitor to Covert Park noted, "There are two loops and both are tight, which made it difficult to maneuver."
Leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly between sites. At Pioneer County Park, a camper pointed out, "The sites are close together, dirt, grass and semi-level."
