South Haven camping areas feature sandy terrains within Michigan's fruit belt, with average summer temperatures around 80°F and cooler evening temperatures in the 60s. The western shore of Michigan offers distinctive camping environments with proximity to Lake Michigan beaches, blueberry fields, and the 33-mile Kal-Haven Trail connecting South Haven to Kalamazoo.
What to do
Beach access and swimming opportunities: Van Buren State Park Campground provides convenient lake access with clean facilities. "Our site was on a corner lot and couldn't have been more perfect for our stay. Large fire pit and picnic table available at every site. There is a small path that leads to the beach," notes Heather Q. about the park's amenities.
Trail hiking and biking: Kal-Haven Outpost offers direct trail connection for outdoor activities. "This is a newish campground and my kids had a great time! My kids LOVED the HOT showers that were impeccably clean and they walked the Kal-Haven trail and said it was beautiful," reports Karen S. The trail allows easy exploration of the surrounding area.
Blueberry picking: Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday features on-site blueberry fields. Cindy B. explains, "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!" This unique activity is perfect for summer campers.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campers consistently mention the quality of restrooms at multiple sites. "The bathhouse was clean. This is a very family friendly campground with a playground and swings. The beach is a short walk from the campground," notes Michelle M. about Van Buren State Park.
Spacious tent sites: Dune Lake Campground provides ample space for tent camping. "Loss of spacious sites! We went on Memorial Day weekend and it was packed but we never felt crowded. Plenty of trees too!" according to Alyssa B. This gives campers room to spread out even during busy periods.
Dog-friendly environments with dedicated areas: Many campgrounds near South Haven accommodate pets with specific areas for dogs. "Lots of spacious sites! We went on Memorial Day weekend and it was packed but we never felt crowded," reports a camper about the pet-friendly grounds at Dune Lake Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Although this campground has great amenities, a pool, clean showers, and good sites/cabins, it is hard to book. If you know you are going to come to this area and camp, you need to book it a while in advance," advises Olivia S. about Jellystone Park.
Noise levels vary by campground: Some locations experience more evening activity than others. James K. notes about Ely Lake: "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... There is loud music, people yelling, fireworks going off."
Water conditions: Beach Campground — Holland State Park offers beach access but has specific rules. "Beautiful beach. Dogs aren't allowed on the beach. Crazy. The campground is entirely on asphalt. You're not allowed to put anything on the sand- including tents!" reports Cynthia K. about the beach restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park caters specifically to families with children. "Nice location, kids loved all the activities they had to offer. Just a down the road from a hiking trail. Close enough to downtown South Haven," explains Joe N. about the family-friendly environment.
Swimming options for different ages: Multiple South Haven dog-friendly campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for children. "Nice swimming lake with a shallow area that's great for kids. Quiet, family oriented and well maintained," describes Dan W. about Dune Lake Campground's swimming options.
Weather preparation: Michigan evenings can be cool even in summer. "Just remember if you're visiting MI it's freaking cold! Even in the summer. We visited beginning aug and it was mid 70s and nights get super cold," warns Faye M. about temperature variations when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Sunny Brook RV Resort offers concrete pads with full hookups. "The is a great place to stay. All concrete, gated, beach in a small lake, basketball court, fishing, pools, and lots of grass for the dogs. Laundry rooms and bathrooms spotless," notes Bill B. about the dedicated RV facilities.
Maneuvering challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "Although the location was ideal the sites were small and close to each other that would not be very comfortable. There are two loops and both are tight, which made it difficult to maneuver," cautions Jennifer S. about Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Hookup placement: Check the location of utilities when selecting sites. "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," advises Melissa M. about potential connection challenges.
