Tent camping in Scotts, Michigan provides access to rural southwest Michigan's inland lakes and forested areas across Kalamazoo and surrounding counties. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping offers cooler temperatures between 45-70°F. Most campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operations from May through October, with limited options available during off-season months.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Bair Lake at Shady Point Campground offers swimming access directly from the campground. According to one camper, "It sits on Bair Lake and was great for swimming. The bathroom and showers were well maintained."
Blueberry picking: During summer months, campers can harvest their own berries at Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday. One visitor noted, "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!"
Cycling on regional trails: The Kal-Haven Trail connects South Haven to Kalamazoo, offering 33.5 miles of crushed limestone pathway. A reviewer mentioned, "We rode 47 miles round trip from Bloomingdale to Bell's Brewery in Kalamazoo."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. One camper stated, "The showers were very clean & had good pressure & hot water."
Fishing opportunities: On-site fishing ponds enhance the camping experience without leaving the property. According to a review, "On site fishing ponds are catch and release with lots of active fish to enjoy."
Location near Lake Michigan: Many campgrounds provide reasonable access to Lake Michigan beaches. One camper mentioned, "Very close to Lake Michigan and the beach!" Another noted, "Clean facilities and only a 20 min drive from South Haven's beautiful beaches!"
What you should know
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Many lakefront sites at campgrounds are occupied by seasonal campers. One East Lake Camping visitor observed, "Most people here are seasonal, occupying almost all the lakefront sites. We may have seen one lakefront available for renters."
Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary in site size and privacy. A camper noted, "The sites are very small, not much privacy, but well kept. There are more spacious sites available on the upper grassy loop."
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. According to one reviewer, "Very accommodating when we requested a site near friends," indicating the importance of advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Lakeside Campground in Jones provides dedicated tent sites with electric hookups and amenities suited for family camping. The campground remains primarily seasonal but occasionally accommodates short-term visitors, as one camper noted: "Campground is all seasonal campers now. Owners were super nice and found room for us for one night layover."
Playgrounds and recreation: Family-oriented campgrounds typically provide dedicated children's areas. One visitor mentioned, "It had playgrounds and basketball court and a small 'game' room."
Temperature variability: Summer nights can cool significantly despite warm days. Pack appropriate clothing for temperature changes, as evenings may require light jackets even during summer months.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature level, maintained sites suitable for travel trailers and motorhomes. At Spring Lake Resort near Kalamazoo, RV sites provide easier access to the Kalamazoo area attractions while maintaining a rural camping atmosphere.
Hookup availability: Most RV sites include water and electric hookups, with some offering full connections. One camper reported, "We stayed with 34' camper inner lakefront."
Camp store supplies: On-site stores provide essential items at reasonable prices. A visitor noted, "The store was nice and lots to offer and the prices were very reasonable."
