Glamping options abound within a 30-mile radius of Sturgis, Michigan, situated in the lakes region along the Indiana-Michigan border. The area features mostly flat terrain with elevations ranging from 850-950 feet and a climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with many upscale accommodations closing after the first frost.
What to do
Frisbee golf course access: Cade Lake County Park offers an extensive disc golf course alongside fishing and kayaking opportunities. "This place is a nice cozy campground with a large frisbee golf course, a fishing and kayak lake, and a nice store. For the price, it's a must camp!" notes Eric M.
Trail exploration: The Pumpkinvine Bike Trail near Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park connects to multiple communities. "This campground was very convenient to the town of Shipshewanna, Amish Country and the Pumpkinvine Bike Trail. There weren't many amenities to speak of, but the sites were fairly spacious and level," reports Cindy B.
Water activities: Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday provides multiple water-based recreation options. "They have a new pool and lazy river which is fantastic. There's an inflatable obstacle course on the lake. They have docks, pontoon rentals and a launch if you wish to bring your own boat," explains Doug A.
What campers like
Spacious sites: At Cade Lake County Park & Campground, campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites. "Clean and large campsites, with full hook up for campers and RVs. Cade Lake can be seen from most campsites which adds to the scenery. Biking or walking trails, with frisbee golf course," shares Josh N.
Cultural experiences: The Amish community surrounds many glamping spots near Sturgis. "Definitely loved this campground in the middle of beautiful Amish country. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Pool is well kept. We were only here for 1 night. Wish we were able to stay longer," writes Dusti H. about Elkhart RV Resort.
Natural settings: Pokagon State Park Campground offers diverse outdoor experiences. "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc. Tons of picnic areas and pavilions; would be a great spot for a family reunion," explains Amy K.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most luxury camping options near Sturgis operate from spring through fall. "Stayed sept 2022, $30 tent site (no electric). Its $40 with electric. Arrived after office hours, campground gated, but host was super friendly and helpful! The grounds are immaculate. Bet it's very popular in summer," notes Nancy about Cade Lake County Park.
Roadway proximity: Some glamping sites sit near busy roads. "Traffic on road can be heard at the sites near the back," warns a reviewer about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Barton Lake. Another camper mentions, "Highway noise was terrible. So many open spaces and we're assigned a highway space," regarding Angola/Hogback Lake KOA.
Reservation timing: Peak season books quickly for premium accommodations. "Only complaint would be that if you are planning a summer weekend you have to book wayyyyy in advance due to demand," advises Tiffany H. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Ebys Pines offers numerous organized events. "Tons of stuff to do for campers of all ages. Roller skating, mini bowling, laser tag, and an arcade at the fun center. There was a corn hole tournament, a golf cart parade, a wagon ride, and a live band," explains Jason S.
Weather preparedness: Temperatures can vary significantly in spring and fall. "We stopped here for a night on our cross-country trip, wish we had 2 nights because we had lots of thunderstorms. We camped in our teardrop on the primitive tent loop," shares Anand about Pokagon State Park.
Facility accessibility: Most premium glamping sites include upgraded bathrooms. "Very nice campground with level sites and air conditioned bathrooms! That is amazing in the summer. They have trails that are a nice walk for the dogs and a pond to catch and release fish," says Kelly F. about Elkhart RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Shipshewana North Park Campground, location matters. "This is a nice campground for visiting Shipshewana, the restrooms and showers are just inside a 'sitting room' and they're clean and modern. You can listen to the clopping of horse hooves as the Amish buggies go by, unfortunately there is also some traffic noise," notes Greg D.
Utility considerations: Water pressure varies between campgrounds. "We took I-80 all the way to near Shipshewana where the roads took us about 7 miles into the campground. We proceeded to pull through site 37 with FHUs. Water pressure was good at about 50 psi. It was nice that the utilities were on the center of the pad," shares MickandKarla W.
Off-season value: Several glamping facilities offer discounts outside peak season. "RV Sites are stacked on each other. We chose 306 and it was ok by the pond. No misquitos. Our friends had 310 and there was barely room to put their awning out," reports Leann O. about Ebys Pines.
