Family camping options surround Niles, Michigan, with over a dozen established campgrounds within 30 miles. The region sits at approximately 695 feet above sea level near the St. Joseph River, featuring sandy soil and moderate summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through October, with limited winter camping available.
What to do
Cave exploration: 10-minute drive from Niles. Thousand Trails Bear Cave features a natural limestone cave formation that attracts visitors throughout the camping season. "There is actually a cave in the campground that you can take a tour of while you are here. The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan. There is also a waterfall right next to the cave," notes Jerry S.
Fishing access: St. Joseph River spots. Both shore and boat fishing opportunities exist near Niles campgrounds. "Nice river fishing, nice stream scenery, big rec center," explains Dawn T. about Bear Cave. The area's rivers and small lakes contain bass, catfish, and panfish species.
Swimming options: Heated and traditional pools. Multiple campgrounds maintain swimming facilities. At Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday, "Heated pool and lots of activities for kids. Camp with blueberries right outside your door!" mentions Amy J.
What campers like
Blueberry picking: On-site at some campgrounds. "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!" explains Cindy B. about Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday.
Clean facilities: Air-conditioned comfort stations. Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney provides climate-controlled restrooms. "Very nice campground with level sites and air conditioned bathrooms! That is amazing in the summer. They have trails that are a nice walk for the dogs and a pond to catch and release fish," notes Kelly F.
Privacy between sites: Varies by campground. Some locations offer more separation than others. At Warren Dunes State Park Campground, "Lots of shade and plenty of privacy between sites. The bathroom seemed newer (South modern loop) with clean bathrooms (cleaned at least twice a day) and private shower stalls," reports Heidi S.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare accordingly. Some campgrounds have spotty coverage. At Bear Cave, one camper mentions: "No internet, pool needs repaired, no cell service. If you do not get a full hook up, you have to pay $15 to get pumped out."
No alcohol policy: Strictly enforced at some parks. Warren Dunes enforces a complete alcohol ban. "Gave Warren Dunes a try a few years back. The dunes themselves were cool. If you go, definitely hike up to the top. One setback was that you can't bring alcohol into the park. And if you think the rangers don't enforce that rule, you're wrong," warns Dave E.
RV dump fee structure: Additional costs possible. Some campgrounds charge for tank pumping if you lack sewer hookups. "This is a 1st come 1st serve choose your own camp site. Most of the full hookups are taken 1st by the annuals. Sucks really but they do have an onsite honeypot which will suck out your tanks for $10 each time around," notes Jack about Thousand Trails Bear Cave.
Tips for camping with families
Playground equipment: Multiple options for kids. Many rv campgrounds near Niles, Michigan feature dedicated play areas. Maple Ridge Campground offers "great owners and almost all full hookup sites. Newly remodeled bathhouse with laundry and also a heated pool. Highly recommend this campground," according to Brandon E.
Beach distance planning: Driving recommended. At Warren Dunes, the beach requires transportation for most families. "There is a path to the beach for walking but it is a long walk. We tried walking a wagon to the beach via the road but regretted it. Plan on driving your stuff to the beach or taking bicycles," advises Heidi S.
Organized children's activities: Weekend schedules. Several parks coordinate events specifically for younger campers. "Owner operator campground where the family knows how to cater to the kids. Multiple activities on Saturday included tractor ride, kids bingo, and elephant ears," explains Tony G. about Maple Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites. At many rv campgrounds in Niles, Michigan area, sewer connections fill quickly. "The only sewer hook-ups are all taken by seasonal campers," Jerry S. notes about Bear Cave, reflecting a common situation throughout the region.
Pull-through dimensions: Confirm before booking. Twin Mills Camping Resort offers spacious sites but layout varies. "Huge campground, we stopped for one night a week prior to their closing for the season. Our site was the farthest loop on the back row. Not too sure with all the empty spots why, but... very wooded, the unit beside us obviously was a seasonal and had placed their unit horizontally in the space which made sitting outside awkward," reports Barbara P.
WiFi options: Pay services available. Internet access isn't included at all locations. At Bear Cave, "It's a very nice off the grid camping with no cell service but if you want wifi then its 5.95 per day or if your here for a week + then 34.95 for the month up to 4 devices is your best bet," explains Jack.
