Fort Custer Recreation Area offers glamping close to Nazareth, Michigan with a variety of accommodation options for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. The park encompasses 3,033 acres in Augusta, Michigan with terrain that includes both hardwood forests and lake shorelines at an elevation of approximately 850 feet. Weather conditions range from humid summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F to winter lows reaching below freezing, making seasonal planning essential.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Fort Custer Recreation Area maintains extensive trail systems for biking enthusiasts seeking moderate to challenging terrain. "We camped and rode (again) at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before (once in a cabin and once in tents) and this has now officially become a favorite," notes one visitor at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes provide year-round fishing access for species including bass, bluegill and pike. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," writes a reviewer who frequented the park throughout childhood.
Winter recreation: Unlike many seasonal glamping sites, Fort Custer remains accessible during colder months with heated accommodation options. Pokagon State Park Campground offers additional winter recreation approximately 45 miles from Nazareth. "There are trail, beaches, boats, horses... so many things to do," mentions one camper who enjoyed the park's year-round amenities.
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches for summer cooling. "The sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT. Don't miss out on the great finishing and hiking. A great plus is still seeing kids rise actual bikes!" shares a repeat visitor.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Privacy between sites ranks highly among visitor preferences in the Nazareth area. "We just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!" reports a happy visitor at Kal-Haven Outpost, which offers glamping accommodations along the trail system.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean restrooms and shower houses consistently receive positive mentions. "The nicest bathrooms and showers I have ever seen at a campground," notes a camper who appreciated the facilities at Kal-Haven Outpost.
Multi-use trail access: Direct connections to regional trail systems provide extended recreation options. "It was so convenient to be able to bike ride, hike, or run on the trail that I hesitate to offer any critique," shares a visitor who enjoyed the Kal-Haven Trail connection.
Night sky viewing: Low light pollution creates opportunities for stargazing. "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky," mentions a visitor at Michawana Campground, where luxury camping options include lakeside accommodations with premium amenities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping locations near Nazareth require advance booking, with peak season weekends filling months ahead. The glamping season typically runs April through October, with limited winter options.
Variable site conditions: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain that affects tent placement and RV leveling. "Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT," notes one camper, though others mention challenges at certain locations.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds report spotty connectivity. "Cellular data was poor in the campground and on the beach - we needed a 5-minute drive to get good Verizon coverage," advises a visitor at Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Dust and mud concerns: Weather conditions significantly impact campground comfort. "The sites and the roads in the campground are all dirt so while we were there it was exceptionally dusty. I could imagine that when they have a lot of rain, it is exceptionally muddy," shares a Kal-Haven Outpost visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds near Nazareth specialize in family programming. "This campsite is perfect for children! The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite. They have a lake / beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall," reports a visitor to Michawana Campground.
Insect preparation: Wooded areas require proper preparation for comfort. "lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent," advises a practical-minded camper.
Recreation equipment: Many locations offer complimentary recreation equipment use. "Boats and kayaks are free to use if the lifeguard is on duty. There is also fishing rods to use for free," notes a camper who appreciated the family-friendly amenities.
Swimming options: Multiple beaches provide supervised water access. Hidden Ridge RV Resort receives praise for its water features: "Some of the things they have to do are swimming pool, playground, basketball courts, fishing, kayaking, jump pad, and lots of paved roads for bike riding."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Electric-only sites predominate at certain locations, requiring planning for water and sewer needs. "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," notes a Fort Custer visitor who recommends planning for this limitation.
Dump station timing: Peak checkout times create congestion at dump stations. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long," advises an experienced RVer.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds feature easy-access sites for larger rigs. Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday receives consistently high ratings for RV accessibility: "All sites are pull through. And all spots are close to the bathrooms."
Seasonal shade considerations: Tree coverage varies significantly between sites and affects comfort during summer months. "One downside to this place is there is not much shade. Most of the bigger trees are around the perimeter so most sites are in the sun all day," notes a visitor to Hidden Ridge RV Resort, important information for RVers planning summer glamping trips near Nazareth.
