Fort Custer Recreation Area offers diverse tent and cabin camping options within a 3,000-acre forested landscape. Located near Mattawan, Michigan, the area features three lakes connected by trails and sits at approximately 850 feet elevation. The recreation area transitions between forest, prairie, and wetland ecosystems with temperatures averaging 28°F in winter and 71°F in summer.
What to do
Fishing and boating opportunities: At Cranberry Lake Campground, visitors can fish directly from the campground. "Great fishing, amenities available. This is one of the first places I felt gave me a bang for my buck," notes one visitor. The lake also offers swimming and a floating pad for kids.
Mountain biking trails: Serious cyclists enjoy the variety of terrain at Fort Custer Recreation Area. "We camped and rode at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before and this has now officially become a favorite," shares one reviewer. The campground connects directly to multiple mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels.
Blueberry picking: The Coloma/St. Joseph KOA offers a unique agricultural experience. "This KOA has blueberry fields everywhere on the property. For a period of time in summer and early fall, you can pick your own blueberries in the morning to have in your breakfast pancakes!" Access to fields is included with your stay during harvest season.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation at many campgrounds near Mattawan. At Melville 7 Lakes, "nice quiet, large sites" are standard, with access to "several lakes including all sports" activities.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water access beyond just Lake Michigan. "Lake for boating and fishing. Has a small swimming area, playground," notes a visitor to Melville 7 Lakes. The variety of swimming options means families can choose between lake beaches and designated swimming areas.
Seasonal quietness: Fall and spring camping offers more seclusion. "Michigan State park with large sites and lots of privacy," mentions a camper about Fort Custer, adding that "roads quiet and could easily ride your road bike to nearby bike paths."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The Mattawan area experiences significant seasonal changes requiring different gear. At Fort Custer, "sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," which means winter camping requires planning for water needs.
Mosquito conditions: Forested areas can have dense insect populations. "Lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent," warns a camper at Fort Custer. Plan to bring extra bug protection during summer months.
Shower facilities: Kal-Haven Outpost offers "the nicest bathrooms and showers I have ever seen at a campground," but at other locations like Melville 7 Lakes, "don't forget quarters for the shower house!! The lady that runs the shower house was nice enough to give me some but it is a dollar for 9 minutes."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds offer structured activities for children. The Covert/South Haven KOA has "lots of kids activities, both free and for a small fee, great pool, cafe and store! Lots of sports equipment to loan as well."
Site selection: For glamping near Mattawan, Michigan with kids, location within the campground matters. "We loved our site as it's close to the trails for riding. The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites," shares a Fort Custer visitor, emphasizing site placement relative to amenities.
Easy access glamping: If traditional tent camping seems challenging, luxury camping options provide more comfort. "We camped here every year with our family since it is perfectly halfway between us, in Michigan, and my family in Chicago. The kids love the activities and the pool and my family who are not necessarily 'outdoorsy' love that they can sleep in an air conditioned cabin with cable!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Warren Dunes, "sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT," but preparation for different ground conditions helps. The sandy soil throughout many campgrounds near Mattawan can impact leveling.
Water hookups: Know your hookup situation before arrival. At Fort Custer, "sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," which means planning for water needs and potential lines at dump stations during busy periods.
Seasonal availability: The Hidden Ridge RV Resort operates "Apr 1 - Oct 30," typical of many area campgrounds. Full-service glamping near Mattawan, Michigan may be limited in deep winter months, while some state facilities remain open year-round with reduced services.
