The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Portage. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Portage campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.
"Fort Custer is a hidden gem in Michigan. Nobody thinks to go camping near Battle Creek, but they really should reconsider!"
"Another great camping experience, site 210 has an amazing trail that leads directly to the showers at one end and at the other path went directly to running water, plus only a couple of yards from a great"
$35 - $40 / night
"Despite having lived near Kalamazoo for seven years, we had never visited this park previously. The site are large level concrete pads with grass dividing the sites. All full hookups."
"There are three roads in the campground and the two roads on the outside have no one behind them which adds privacy. "
"Out in the country, but close enough that getting to Kzoo and Portage is a breeze.
Paying for a pass gets you in other nice county parks."
"29 campsites pretty close together with old growth trees interspersed around the campground. Fishing pier and boating, playground area, and beach. No longer has primitive camping."
"It’s not as big as some of the expo centers in Michigan, but it does the job. If you plan to camp here they offer 220 campsites over 5 small campgrounds."
$5 - $10 / night
"The camping spots are in a park right off the main road, however they are tucked all the way around back offering surprisingly private camping."
"The campsites are located past the playground and shelter. Just keep driving down the road that looks like an alley. There is a wonderful place set up for just a few campers. "
$25 / night
"Access to several lakes including all sports"
"Lake for boating and fishing. Has a small swimming area, playground."
"First time in central Michigan and it was absolutely beautiful. The campground has a great location and lots of mountain bike and hiking trails."
"This is a campground in Yankee Spring Recreational Area in Mid-Michigan. This is a nice rustic campground near the NCT(North Country Trail)."
TravelerGreat park. Well maintained. Very clean. Lots of bike trails, a beach area. Helpful staff!
GuideWe 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.
We loved our site (so don't book this one) as it's close to the trails for riding. The campground was almost to capacity, but still some open sites.
All in all this was a great trip, and we even visited Belle's brewery on our way home.
LegendThis was our first time staying at Covert Park Beach + Campground. We stayed in site 52 with our 21 ft travel trailer. The site is a good size. Tree placement made it a little tricky to back into, but nothing crazy. We stayed Sunday to Saturday, so we got to see it at its bustling weekend peak and the quiet, cozy weekday vibe. Family friendly, dog friendly and kid friendly. Dogs aren't allowed on the beach, but there's a beach a few minutes down the road (Hagar Beach) where you can bring leashed dogs. Sunset views were beautiful. Bathrooms were very clean and showers nice and hot. The two guys who were running the check-in and campground operations were super cool- they were the perfect mix of attentive and laid back. No sewer on campsites but there's a dump station when you enter/exit. Ice and firewood are abundantly available and can be delivered to your site. We loved our stay here. Tree cover is generous, and it really preserves the camping feel. Weekend crowd was fun, friendly and lots of locals. Would definitely stay again!
GuideTents sites are now $20 and RV hookups (water and 20/30 amp) are $30. When I got to the police station they were closed for the week but a phone # was provided to call dispatcher and an officer responded promptly to help me get registered. Cash or check only.
TravelerBathrooms clean Campground well maintained. Showers clean. Push button operation not temperature control little on the cold side for me.
ScoutHad a reservation for 6 months and the day we were to arrive, we were told we could not have the site we prepared for because someone else wanted to stay longer. Management has the right to alter your reservation without your consent or the courtesy of a phone call. When questioned, the owner treated us like garbage and was rude as hell. Would never recommend this place to anyone, stay away!!!
TravelerI camped here countless times throughout my childhood. It was nice returning. I brought back great memories and it struck a balance of staying up with the times but still leaving most to nature.
Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long.
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!
TravelerWe’ve stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet! We love it here already with only being here twice!
TravelerVery nice scenery atmosphere great place to take your kids your family family get togethers coming together very cozy place
Camping near Portage, Michigan, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From beautiful beaches to wooded trails, there’s something for everyone in this area.
Camping around Portage, Michigan, has its ups and downs, but with the right preparation, you can have a great time enjoying the outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there lakeside camping options near Portage?
Portage-area campers have several lakeside options within driving distance. Covert Park Beach & Campground offers access to Lake Michigan with primitive tent sites and full-hookup options. It features clean facilities, a new shower house, and is well-maintained. Van Buren State Park Campground is another excellent choice, with tree-lined sites just a short walk to Lake Michigan's shores and impressive sand dunes. For inland lake camping, options include Melville 7 Lakes and various sites at Yankee Springs Recreation Area, though some facilities may have seasonal closures.
What tent camping sites are available around Portage, Michigan?
Tent campers near Portage have several excellent options. Thousand Trails Bear Cave offers a quaint experience with amenities like a clubhouse, playground, pool, and walking trails. For a more rustic experience, consider Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday, which is tent-friendly and features amenities like mini-golf, bike rentals, hot tub, and heated pool—perfect for first-time campers. Tent campers might also enjoy Fort Custer Recreation Area and Buikema Farm for more primitive experiences. Many sites in the region offer water access, clean facilities, and varying levels of privacy depending on your preference.
What campgrounds are available in Portage, MI?
Several campgrounds are within easy driving distance of Portage. Cold Brook County Park offers a peaceful country setting while still being a quick drive to Portage and Kalamazoo. Your park pass also grants access to other county parks in the area. For families, Dutch Treat Camping & Recreation provides full hookups and rustic options with amenities like fishing, swimming pool, and a gagaball pit. Other nearby options include Markin Glen County Park and Outdoor Adventures Kalamazoo Resort, both offering various amenities for campers seeking convenience to Portage.
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