C
Christine B.
Ranger
RangerEly Lake Campground
Cute lake for kayaking
Nice small lake for swimming and kayaking Lots of nice hiking
Camping near South Haven, MI
118 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Campgrounds near South Haven, Michigan range from state parks to private resorts, with most offering both tent and RV accommodations. Van Buren State Park Campground provides electric hookups and modern facilities within walking distance of Lake Michigan, while several KOA locations offer more amenities including cabins and glamping options. The Kal-Haven Outpost sits directly on the Kal-Haven Trail, making it popular with cyclists and hikers. Most campgrounds in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water, with many also providing shower facilities and hookups for RVs.
Reservations are strongly recommended during the summer months when South Haven's proximity to Lake Michigan makes it a popular destination. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with most private campgrounds closing during winter months. Van Buren State Park remains open year-round but offers limited winter services. Sites with lake views or trail access tend to book quickly, especially on summer weekends and holidays. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures with occasional storms off Lake Michigan. "This is one of our favorite camping spots in Michigan. We love it for its location to South Haven and because it's a great state park and campground," noted one visitor about Van Buren State Park.
Campers consistently highlight the beaches and bike trails as major attractions when staying near South Haven. The Kal-Haven Trail, a 33-mile former railroad corridor, connects Kalamazoo to South Haven and passes directly through some campgrounds. Several visitors mentioned the convenience of biking into downtown South Haven, approximately 4-5 miles from most campgrounds. Beach access varies by location, with Van Buren State Park offering a short walk to Lake Michigan, though some reviewers note the beach area can be limited. Family-friendly amenities are common at private campgrounds, with one camper noting that Covert/South Haven KOA has "a pool and lots of activities for kids" while maintaining clean facilities. Proximity to local attractions like breweries, wineries, and the Michigan Maritime Museum adds to the appeal of camping in this region.
Best Campgrounds near South Haven (118)
1. Van Buren State Park Campground
"This is one of our favorite camping spots in Michigan. We love it for its location to South Haven and because it’s a great state park and campground."
"Our family enjoyed this quiet, secluded campground in South Haven. Our site was on a corner lot and couldn't have been more perfect for our stay."
2. Covert Park Beach & Campground
"Pros: Lake Michigan is right there! We walked down to sunset and it was a 5 min walk max."
"Close to beach of Lake Michigan. Walk in primitive tent site is what I stayed at. Many other sites available. Quiet at night. Great staff"
from $40 - $100 / night
Check Availability3. Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday
"Good spots for RV/pull behind/tents. Clean facilities and only a 20 min drive from South Haven’s beautiful beaches!"
"The campground is only about 14 miles from South Haven where you can shop in a charming downtown, go to a spacious beach or catch the Kal-Haven bike trail to Kalamazoo."
4. Kal-Haven Outpost
"This was a nice campground right on the Kal Haven Trail - about 4 miles from South Haven."
"A group of us bike from Kalamazoo to South Haven every year using the Kal-Haven trail. We usually tent camp but tried a cabin here this year."
from $22 - $68 / night
Check Availability5. Black River Trails Campground
"This was a great little campground near South Haven, MI. We stayed in a small "RV Site" spot on the campground and that gave us our own electrical/water hookup."
"It was great to see new friends Branden,Chrisand Nina via FaceTime and meet MaryJo..This place is close to the lake,town. Plenty to do in the area. If you’re close to south haven."
from $37 - $80 / night
Check Availability6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp Resort-South Haven, MI
"Nice location, kids loved all the activities they had to offer. Just a down the road from a hiking trail. Close enough to downtown South Haven."
"But DO travel to St Joe/South Haven/Saugatuck. All less than 30 min and great scenery there, breweries too! Also, return in the fall and do the local orchards/pumpkin farms."
from $60 - $230 / night
Check Availability7. Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday
"Showers close by. All in all we had a great first experience and would recommend this campground. Very close to Lake Michigan and the beach!"
"The store has everything you could need and if they don't, there is a gas station right outside of entrance. Close to the lake, will visit again!"
from $60 - $120 / night
Check Availability8. Dune Lake Campground
"Close to Lake Michigan and South Haven. Nice swimming lake with a shallow area that’s great for kids. Quiet, family oriented and well maintained."
"This is a beautiful campsite with lots of good nature around. The primitive sites are the best in the area but the partial hookup sites are also beautiful."
9. Ely Lake Campground
"Lived in Michigan for most of my life and frequently visited and camped here as a youth. This is primarily a primitive campground with porto- pottys. Usually pretty clean."
"No power motor lake but there is another lake close by that is. We take the canoe with a trolling motor and hit that as well. Pet friendly. They have horse campsites and trails."
from $17 / night
Check Availability10. Sunny Brook RV Resort
"All concrete, gated, beach in a small lake, basketball court, fishing, pools, and lots of grass for the dogs. Laundry rooms and bathrooms spotless."
from $85 - $97 / night
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Drive Time
- 43 min from Niles, MI
- 45 min from Kalamazoo, MI
- 48 min from Grand Rapids, MI
- 51 min from South Bend, IN
Recent Camping Photos near South Haven, MI
182 Photos of 118 South Haven Campgrounds
Phil M.
Black River Trails Campground
Francesco S.
Sunflower Farm Camping
upperhunt8@gmail.com
Kal-Haven Outpost
Olivia S.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp Resort-South Haven, MI
Thomas B.
Van Buren State Park Campground
Chris M.
Covert Park Beach & Campground
Rodney D.
Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday
Marcelo M.
Dune Lake Campground
Edward S.
Campit Outdoor Resort Saugatuck
Alyssa
Sweet Cherry Resort
James C.
Ely Lake Campground
Cassie B.
Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday
Recent Reviews near South Haven, MI
642 Reviews of 118 South Haven Campgrounds
- JJodie C.
TravelerFort Custer Recreation Area
Family campground
Large campground, many nice paved sites, about half 50 amp, no rustic sites. Most all sites are pretty secluded with growth between them. Bring your mosquito spray!
Rachel T.
GuideOff Map
Charming Glamping with Thoughtful Touches
We stayed at Off Map over Memorial Day weekend in a Safari King Tent and absolutely loved it. The tent was private, comfortable, clean, and such a fun setup for a glamping weekend.
The property itself was so charming, with string lights, cool little paths throughout, and a beautiful, well-maintained setting. There were so many great touches: the group fireplace area, live music, s’mores in the evening, and a pop-up wood-burning sauna and cold plunge.
Breakfast was served in the main building with great options like hard-boiled eggs, fruit, oatmeal, and coffee. It got a little chilly at night, so we really appreciated the wood-burning stove inside the tent. It made the space feel cozy and would be especially great for shoulder season camping.
The bathrooms and showers were also fantastic. Everything was super clean, easy to access, and honestly much nicer than expected for a glamping property. Overall, this was such a fun, easy, and memorable weekend getaway. We’d definitely come back and highly recommend the Safari King Tent.
- SSherri B.Traveler
Markin Glen County Park
Nice Park
Nice county park with paved roads, campsites, and walking paths. Very dog friendly. Plenty of trees for natural setting and sound buffering. Quiet and peaceful overnight stay.
Ula W.
ScoutShamrock Park
Shamrock Rv park
Very nice place , very clean. Good for family
Lea K.TravelerElkhart Campground
First hand discrimination
I have seen a lot of discrimination on TV and people talk about discrimination a lot never did I think I would actually see it in my lifetime against myself. The owner of the campground is very disrespectful even when you're being very polite and I'm confrontational he doesn't like to be asked questions he doesn't like to answer questions. All they asked was the year of my camper asked that a bunch of times insinuating that I was lying to him about that age of my camper. He talked down to me he made it very apparent that the problem was not my camper and that it was my family and that my family wasn't good enough to be in his five-star campground that we would bring down his aesthetic when I took plenty of pictures of what his aesthetic is his home looks like it was built by hillbillies there's trash everywhere a bunch of Ford camper that look like trash it has the nerve to charge $1,200 a mouth to keep ppl like us off his property. When obviously we had the money to pay. I am a well educated woman I had finished college and I'm actually working on my second degree in psychology a bachelor's degree. I have ran billion dollar businesses at one point in my life I ran the number one Taco Bell in the nation in cedar falls Iowa. I was the GM of an Arby's I actually signed paychecks controlled accounts had more money moved to my hands than that man will ever see in his sorry life. I have never felt more sorry for a person I think he probably should go back to his own country if he wants to talk to people like that and I get f***** up he's lucky I changed my life and found Jesus but I hope it's five stars they find bury that full very thoughtful since there's no customer service. He claims people have been going to live campground for 30 years but when I went around and talk to the people most of them there was their first time being there they were from other places so stop the cap and I made sure to let everybody know the type of man he was. He had the audacity to act as though I was begging him to stay in his horrible campground when I was not when I was just simply asking him what the problem was with my camper and why he was telling me I could not stay he has every right to refuse my service but he does not have the right to discriminate against me or my family it is against the law and I actually got it underestimate in me and assume I was just an ignorant person who didn't know how to do anything all right doesn't have plenty of money but I think everything is a little lesson in life and he will definitely learn his definitely when he receives the papers in the mail.
- GGlen B.Ranger
Campout at Hostel SoHa
Back in the saddle
Nice concept... still finding they're legs. Staff member didn't seem to want to help with the much too laborious and personal check-in process. Fees have gone up. And there are showers.
Gary G.GuideOutdoor Adventures Kalamazoo Resort
Membership? No thanks
Roads are seem to be dirt/gravel here (but most is really just crumbling asphalt), so even though most vehicles respect the 5mph speed limit (which is nice), you can still expect some dust everywhere. Oh, and some golf carts often seem to think 5mph doesn't apply to them.
Kalamazoo Speedway is only 2.5 miles away, so if there's racing at night, you're going to hear it. It's not terrible, but...
Many golf carts here, some with thumping music or ooh-gah horns going by in the evening. While before official "quiet time", it's still really annoying at 9 or 10pm. Be nice if they adopted a "your noise/music should stay on your site" idea like other places. ESPECIALLY the loud, music-blasting golf carts.
Calling this a "resort" is kind of a stretch. The "lakes" (more like ponds) are in need of weed control. Sites along the main lake are often muddy, sinking campers into it. There's one playground there. A small beach, pool (was freezing on the Mem Day weekend), a mini-golf that needs some TLC and a somewhat pricey camp store. Not much different than your average, most basic KOA, except KOA doesn't require a $17K lifetime membership.
They say there's trails you can walk, but I didn't see a single sign or map indicating where these were. Pointless without that.
Stayed Memorial Day weekend. Roads could really, really use a grading or repaving. Lots of bumps, holes and dips. Makes it somewhat dangerous for evening bike rides. The idiots staying in site 158 with their kids singing (bad) karaoke was super annoying. Staffsecurity should have told them to turn it down no matter the time. (two nights, from about 8:30pm until 10:45pm.). I thought they had a rule about this? Their security car went by at least twice during this unwanted show, so why didn't they say something? I tried to call about it, but got no answer.
The mini golf is a nice touch... it'd just be nice to see it maintained a lot better. It's pretty rough.
This is a membership-only place. We had a promotional stay, but I have to say, I really didn't see enough value to want to buy in. Even if it was just a regular campground, we weren't all that impressed enough that we'd make a special trip just to stay here. I'd rate it as "ok", but there was no real "wow factor" here for us.
I have to say the woman they assigned to us for the tour and sales meeting was very nice, pleasant, and no annoying hard sell. But then they send in the closer, and there's where the flurries of offers and discounts start, but once you get the discounts, you lose other options that you'd probably want. Is Outdoor Adventures worth it? Not to us, sorry to say. We like to camp all over, not just at a handful of specific campgrounds under the Outdoor Adventures umbrella.
To Outdoor Adventures... you should really arrange it so campers can try out two or three of your campgrounds FIRST before trying to sell them. No way we'd join after only seeing/staying in one. Especially just Kalamazoo.
BTW, their rental cabins (especially the largest ones) were really nice. I'll give them that.
That's my honest review of the place as we found it.
Mike J.TravelerSteamboat Park Campground
Great spot!
A hidden gem with a lot of history. A paddle wheel boat on the Grand river?! Nice and secluded yet close to town and easy access to the highway
Guide to South Haven
Van Buren State Park Campground sits within 2 miles of South Haven's downtown area, offering camping options along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The area features a mix of sandy dunes, wooded sites, and beach access with camping elevation near 600 feet. While summer brings moderate temperatures around 75-85°F, Lake Michigan can create fog and sudden temperature changes even during July and August.
What to do
Beach access alternatives: When Van Buren State Park's beach area is limited, head to Hagar Beach where leashed dogs are allowed. "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," explains a camper at Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Biking for all ages: The region features multiple bike-friendly trails beyond just the Kal-Haven. "Bike rentals are only $10 per day, even for tandems, and there's a flat, paved bike path that takes you to the quaint town of South Haven, about 5 miles north," notes a visitor to Van Buren State Park Campground. Another option is the Van Buren State Park Trail, "a 4-mile paved trail running from South Haven to the Van Buren State Park."
Fruit picking opportunities: Seasonal fruit picking is available at several 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!" shares a camper at Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday.
What campers like
Private beach access: Many campers value the private beach areas available at certain campgrounds. "Covert Park is an above average municipal park with two small loops. The short walk to the beautiful beach makes this campground worth it," writes a reviewer at Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Direct trail connections: Camping right on biking and hiking trails is a major draw. "Our family enjoyed this quiet, secluded campground in South Haven. There is a small path that leads to the beach. Best of all, warm showers everyday!" notes a camper at Van Buren State Park Campground.
Evening activities: Campground entertainment helps fill evening hours. At Kal-Haven Outpost, one camper enjoyed how "they had a band one night and an ice cream truck come through the next. Would recommend!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "Cellular data was poor in the campground and on the beach - we needed a 5-minute drive to get good Verizon coverage," reports a camper at Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Water levels change seasonally: Beach sizes fluctuate dramatically with Lake Michigan water levels. "Some site have lots of shade. Nice Camp store. Lake place to hang out on the beach on Lake Michigan," notes one Van Buren camper, while another mentions that "there isn't much of a beach this year, but in town there are two bigger ones."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience, Ely Lake Campground offers truly basic facilities. "This is primarily a primitive campground with porto-pottys. Usually pretty clean. Located in the Allegan forest. Very quiet and nice that it has a lake for swimming in the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Some campgrounds offer extensive children's programming. "We had the best time at this campground. The site was clean and well kept when we arrived. This is a very family friendly campground with a playground and swings. The beach is a short walk from the campground," shares a visitor to Van Buren State Park Campground.
Weekday visits for quieter experience: For families seeking calmer environments, timing matters. "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," reports a camper at Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Accommodation variety: Options range from tent sites to cabins. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, one camper noted it's "great place to go with non-camper friends as they have cabins. Great place for kids activities. Don't expect serene beauty. But DO travel to St Joe/South Haven/Saugatuck."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have notable site issues. "The electrical box and water hook up is on the wrong side of the site. Bring extra line... we have 50ft hose so we were fine there (line goes through the middle of the site) and 25ft electrical and had to re-adjust the camper a few times so it would reach," warns an RVer at Covert Park Beach & Campground.
Premium RV options: For RVers seeking higher-end amenities, options exist. "This is a great place to stay. All concrete, gated, beach in a small lake, basketball court, fishing, pools, and lots of grass for the dogs. Laundry rooms and bathrooms spotless," reports a guest at Sunny Brook RV Resort.
Campground layout considerations: Site selection matters for RVs. "When you select your campsite, be aware that there's a path through the middle of the campground and some sites are right next to it, meaning very little privacy. The higher numbered sites are farther from the lake," advises a Van Buren State Park camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any beachfront camping options in South Haven?
Are there any beachfront camping options in South Haven?
Van Buren State Park Campground offers the closest experience to beachfront camping in South Haven. Located on the Lake Michigan shoreline, campers enjoy a short walk to the beach with beautiful dunes. While not directly on the beach, the proximity makes it ideal for beach lovers. For those seeking alternative beachfront options, Covert Park Beach & Campground provides beach access nearby. Most South Haven campgrounds are within a short drive (15-20 minutes) of Lake Michigan beaches, with some offering shuttle services during peak season. Beachfront sites are in high demand, especially during summer months, so advance reservations are highly recommended.
What are the best campgrounds in South Haven, Michigan?
What are the best campgrounds in South Haven, Michigan?
South Haven offers several excellent camping options. Van Buren State Park Campground is highly rated for its location on Lake Michigan shoreline, clean shower houses, and electric sites with a short walk to the beach. Dune Lake Campground is another top choice, offering a quiet, family-oriented atmosphere with a swimming lake featuring a shallow area perfect for children. Other notable options include Black River Trails Campground for more secluded camping and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park for family-friendly activities. Most campgrounds in the area provide easy access to South Haven's beautiful beaches and downtown attractions.
What RV camping facilities are available in South Haven, Michigan?
What RV camping facilities are available in South Haven, Michigan?
Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday offers excellent RV facilities with level, roomy sites, full hookups, clean bathrooms, and showers. Located about 20 minutes from South Haven beaches, it features amenities like a pool and activities for families. Black River Trails Campground provides RV sites with electrical and water hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits with ample space between sites. Other options include Sunny Brook RV Resort for big-rig-friendly accommodations and Kal-Haven Outpost which offers RV camping in a circle near the bathhouse. Most RV parks in the area provide water and electric hookups, with several offering full hookup options and WiFi access.
Can I find cabin rentals in South Haven for camping alternatives?
Can I find cabin rentals in South Haven for camping alternatives?
Yes, several campgrounds near South Haven offer cabin rentals. Kal-Haven Outpost provides comfortable cabins right off the Kal-Haven trail, making it perfect for cyclists. These cabins come with linens and basic supplies, including deliverable firewood. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp Resort also offers cabin accommodations with family-friendly activities and facilities, located just a short distance from downtown South Haven. The Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday features cabin options that campers find reliable and comfortable. Most cabins in the area require advance reservations, especially during peak summer season, and typically include basic amenities like beds, electricity, and nearby access to shower facilities.
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