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.
