RV parks near Portage, Michigan provide year-round camping options across southwest Michigan's varied terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F while winter averages 20-35°F with significant snowfall. Most campgrounds in this area sit on relatively flat terrain with elevations between 700-900 feet above sea level, creating accessible sites for vehicles of various sizes.
What to do
Fishing access: At Bear Cave RV Campground, campers can enjoy riverfront fishing along the St. Joseph River. "There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used. The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan," notes Jerry S. The campground also features a waterfall and actual bear cave tour on-site.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds maintain pools for recreation when lake swimming isn't available. At Woodchip Campground, "There is a pool, bounce pillow and basketball court," according to Stu E. The swimming amenities provide relief during hot summer months without traveling to larger lakes.
Paddling routes: Local lakes offer connected waterways for extended paddling trips. "This area is great for paddling. You can start at Crooked Lake and follow a little water trail to Pickerel to swim at a small beach," writes Melissa B. from Crooked Lake Campground. Multiple connected lakes create routes for half-day or full-day paddling adventures.
What campers like
Family activities: Campgrounds near Portage frequently organize scheduled events for children. At Hidden Ridge RV Resort, "Kid friendly! This park always finds away to having something fun for the kids to do. Pool, splash pad, arcade, bounce pad, playground, outdoor sports area, hayrides, crafts, store, pond for fishing, golf cart rental," reports Melissa M., highlighting the structured entertainment options.
Themed weekends: Several RV parks coordinate special event weekends throughout the camping season. "We came here for a fall camping weekend. Kids loved going on wagon ride to find the pumpkins and then decorating them. They really enjoyed the glow wagon ride. Root beer floats Saturday night were great," shares Cassondra P. about her Woodchip Campground experience.
Concrete pads: Many campers appreciate the solid, level foundations at certain campgrounds. "All sites are good size sites with a cement pad and very green grass. It is also very well run and maintained," notes Clint from Hidden Ridge RV Resort, where the concrete pads help prevent flooding and mud issues during rainy periods.
What you should know
Off-site services: Some campgrounds have limited nearby conveniences. "There isn't much close the the campground at all. Like the closest gas station is 15 miles. Not really any fast food restaurants either," warns Beth H. about Hidden Ridge RV Resort. Plan grocery runs and fuel stops before arrival at more remote parks.
Varying campsite privacy: Site layouts and vegetation differ significantly between parks. "Our campsite was huge and mostly private. The vault toilets were as clean as one could be," reports Angie H. about Crooked Lake Campground, while at other parks, sites may be more exposed.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary by campground with most closing for winter months. According to campground information, Bear Cave RV Campground operates from May through October, while Elkhart RV Resort in nearby Indiana runs April through October. Only a few campgrounds like Camp Turkeyville RV Resort offer year-round operation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites near play areas for easier supervision. "There are campsites in a circle around the playground, so you can sit at your site and watch the kids play," recommends Andrea B. about Woodchip Campground, allowing parents to monitor children while maintaining their campsite.
Activity scheduling: Check activity calendars when booking. "There are lots of kids activities, and all activities are included with stay. But the lots are small," notes Andrea about Woodchip Campground, emphasizing the value despite space limitations.
Golf cart rentals: Many larger campgrounds offer golf cart rentals for easier mobility. "We rented a golf cart from them, which our kids had a blast just going for rides around the campground," shares Clint from Hidden Ridge RV Resort. Rental rates typically range from $45-65 per day with advance reservations recommended.
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Plan tank dumping strategically to avoid peak times. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups at some parks, lines at the dump/fill station can get long," according to multiple camper reports. Early morning or mid-week dumping typically encounters shorter wait times.
Site selection for big rigs: Larger RVs should request specific areas in campgrounds. "Lots deep not very wide," notes Barbara P. about Twin Mills Camping Resort, indicating that length rather than width accommodates larger vehicles at many parks near Portage, Michigan.
Camp store availability: On-site stores vary significantly in inventory and hours. "There is a snack bar at the campground, but for other things you'll have to go further out," observes Beth H., suggesting that RVers should stock necessary supplies before arrival despite advertised store amenities.
