Best Campgrounds near Portage, MI

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Portage, Michigan (162)

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Recent Reviews near Portage, MI

619 Reviews of 162 Portage Campgrounds



Guide to Portage

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.

What to do

  • Hiking and Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Warren Dunes State Park Campground, provide great hiking paths and access to Lake Michigan. One visitor mentioned, “Overall, great walking paths, hiking and the beach was a great bonus after an afternoon climbing the dunes!”
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: At Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking on the 13 lakes. A camper shared, “Kayaking the 13 lakes can easily last from morning to sundown.”
  • Fishing: Potato Creek State Park Campground is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. One reviewer noted, “Fishing, kayaking on the lake,” highlighting the park's offerings.

What campers like

  • Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the scenic views and natural surroundings. A visitor at Fort Custer Recreation Area said, “The spots were nice and secluded, and the whole place was very beautiful.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Pokagon State Park Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One camper remarked, “The shower & restrooms are atrocious!!! Worst looking buildings since Spring Mill SP! Dirty & need an entire overhaul.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground staff. At Covert Park Beach & Campground, a guest said, “The camp is under new management and they are friendly and welcoming.”

What you should know

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Lake Michigan Campground noted, “We stayed at the wooded campground near where you check in, it was busy, and every loud motorcycle going down the road right next to us.”
  • Limited Privacy: Many sites are close together, which can affect your camping experience. A camper at Van Buren State Park Campground mentioned, “Clean campground with large sites but no privacy between sites.”
  • No Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Weko Beach Campground, do not allow alcohol. One camper expressed frustration, saying, “No alcohol campground also, so everyone had nice tumblers walking around.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. Van Buren State Park Campground has two playgrounds, making it a great choice for families.
  • Plan for Noise: Expect some noise, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Warren Dunes State Park Campground noted, “Place was a little crowded, but once it got dark it was quiet and peaceful.”
  • Pack Essentials: Bring your own firewood and cooking gear, as some campgrounds may not provide these. A camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground advised, “Bring a lot of leveling block and no kids!”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A camper at Pokagon State Park Campground mentioned, “Some sites are level, some aren't. Some can accommodate larger rigs, most can't.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Potato Creek State Park Campground noted, “Verizon signal essentially nonexistent, but air TV reception not bad.”
  • Plan for Dump Station Waits: Expect busy dump stations during peak times. A camper at Chain O' Lakes State Park Campground warned, “With poison oak all over the back of our site so bring a lot of leveling block and no kids!”

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