Best Campgrounds near Mattawan, MI

Camping near Mattawan, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From sandy beaches to wooded trails, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

• Hiking and Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Warren Dunes State Park Campground, provide great hiking paths and access to Lake Michigan. One camper mentioned, “Overall, great walking paths, hiking and the beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!”
• Fishing and Kayaking: At Potato Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A visitor shared, “Fishing, kayaking on the lake,” highlighting the peaceful nature of the park.
• Family Activities: Campgrounds like Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday offer fun for kids with splash pads and playgrounds. One review noted, “It has a splash pad, a jump park, and the pool,” making it a hit for families.

What campers like:

• Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the scenic views and wooded areas. A review for Fort Custer Recreation Area stated, “We loved how wooded and beautiful the campground was.”
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Pokagon State Park Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor remarked, “Bathrooms and showers were clean,” which is always a plus when camping.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At Covert Park Beach & Campground, one camper said, “The camp is under new management and they are friendly and welcoming.”

What you should know:

• Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Lake Michigan Campground noted, “This is a very popular beach campground,” which can lead to tight spaces.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Weko Beach Campground has basic facilities, and one visitor mentioned, “Bathrooms were port o potties only and half of them didn’t even have toilet paper.”
• Noise Levels: Some campers have reported noise from nearby roads or other campers. A review for Van Buren State Park Campground stated, “Nearby highway noise which I dislike,” so be prepared for some background sounds.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday that offer activities for kids. One review highlighted, “Perfect for kids activities.”
• Plan for Beach Days: If you’re near the coast, make sure to pack beach gear. A camper at Warren Dunes State Park Campground enjoyed the beach, saying, “The beach was a great bonus.”
• Bring Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the camp store. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “The camp store had a little bit of everything,” but it’s always good to have your favorites ready.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A review for Pokagon State Park Campground advised, “Some sites are level, some aren't,” which is crucial for RV parking.
• Plan for Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with convenient dump stations. A camper at Fort Custer Recreation Area appreciated the “dump stations located in loops,” making it easier for RVers.
• Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials like water and firewood. A visitor at Covert Park Beach & Campground noted, “Firewood at a good price,” which can be helpful for campfires.

Camping near Mattawan, Michigan, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!