Campers exploring the Allegan, Michigan area have access to several lakes within a 15-mile radius. The region features a mix of rolling woodland terrain and sandy soils typical of west Michigan. Camping near Allegan offers opportunities throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons with most precipitation occurring in April and May when overnight temperatures can still drop into the 40s.
What to do
Mountain biking: Trail systems at Fort Custer Recreation Area offer varied terrain for cyclists. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," notes reviewer Bob B., who adds, "I've never found another campground with such a great mix of secluded sites, but still opportunities to meet and party with fellow camper."
Horseback riding: Equestrian trails and camping facilities are available near Allegan. A reviewer at Ely Lake Campground explains, "They have horse campsites and trails. Walking trails around the lake that offer nature at its purest! I have been coming to this lake to camp for over 40 years."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes support different fish populations. According to a visitor at TriPonds Family Camp Resort, "They had a bass fishing tournament Saturday and the winner won a free ice cream, which my son loved... My son has caught one every time we've been here. Catch and release only."
Winter activities: While most Allegan campgrounds close for winter, some recreation areas maintain trails. A visitor mentioned, "Disappointed that it was not open year round but the trails are still open. There's a beautiful lake to fish and kayak. Tons of hiking trails!!"
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site seclusion varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Hidden Ridge RV Resort, "Spacing was generous between locations. We had a drive-in(forward) location(#10) overlooking the small lake." Meanwhile, at Fort Custer, a camper reported, "We just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!"
Beach quality: Sandy beaches are a major draw for family campers. One visitor at Holland State Park noted, "The wide beach lures sunbathers out in warm weather and is popular for a walk at sunset." However, another camper warned, "Unfortunately, tents have to be on pavement and weighted down because stakes can't be put in. Sites don't have fire pits either."
Quiet weekdays: Many campgrounds see significant visitor fluctuations. "We enjoy Triponds for camping! There is a lot to do to keep kids busy," reports one visitor, while another camper observed at 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."
Site drainage: Several campgrounds have drainage issues during rain. "If it's not rainy it's a super fun campground! We still enjoyed our weekend despite being muddy," noted one Triponds visitor. Another camper at Deep Lake mentioned, "Be careful what campsite you get though because flooding was a problem last time I was there. We got 2-4" of rain overnight."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. At Dumont Lake Campground, a visitor observed it was "very busy on weekends but during the week days not much activity and is much more peaceful."
Drinking water quality: Water sources vary from full hookups to primitive pumps. One Ely Lake visitor warned, "There is a hand pump for water, although I would recommend bringing your own drinking water because the water from the hand pump is very discolored."
Site surface types: Campground surfaces range from paved pads to grass and dirt sites. A Holland State Park camper explained, "This campground is entirely on asphalt. You're not allowed to put anything on the sand- including tents!"
Noise considerations: Traffic, activity centers, and neighboring campsites can create noise issues. A visitor to Brookside Park noted, "The noise level is moderate to high - road noise & construction, and relatively loud water treatment."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for kids: Family-oriented campgrounds offer varied programming. At Hungry Horse Campground, "We had a great time camping. Lots of activities for kids and adults. Enjoyed having a pond, pool, playground, jump pillow and more!" Another visitor added 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."
Beach safety: Swimming areas vary in quality and supervision. "The beach is wide and expansive and is the place to be for awesome sunsets," noted one Holland State Park visitor, though another mentioned, "No dogs or bikes on the beach. Sounds good if it was actually enforced."
Playground options: Family campgrounds often feature play equipment. One visitor to Hungry Horse described it as having "a cute little campground in a small town in Dorr, Michigan. Lots of activities, swimming, wagon rides, jump pad, and more."
Camp store conveniences: On-site stores vary in selection and pricing. A camper at Hungry Horse observed, "They overcharge for EVERYTHING! While there we over heard them planning a craft event (horse pool noodles) they said they paid $3.00 for all supplies combined and planned on charging each child $4.00!"
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: RVers report varying wait times at facilities. At Yankee Springs, one camper warned, "The dump station takes a bit to get through. We were in line for about an hour before we dumped and we pulled off our site at 1."
RV site size considerations: Many campgrounds have limited big rig accessibility. A Hidden Ridge visitor reported, "All sites include a concrete pad, fire ring and full hook-up. 120/150 amp," while a Dumont Lake camper cautioned about "tight spots, with old small playground."
Electrical options: Power capabilities vary by campground. Fort Custer offers "electric only hook up. Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," while Brookside Park has "4 spots with electric, 3 of which are paved... 2 water spigots shared by the 4 electric sites. No sewer."
