Near Sturgis, Michigan, camping areas sit at approximately 900 feet above sea level in the rolling countryside of southwest Michigan. The region features multiple lakes and rivers with seasonal temperature variations that impact campground availability. Water recreation access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering dedicated swimming areas and boat launches.
What to do
Paddle the St. Joseph River: Thousand Trails Bear Cave provides direct access to riverside camping with boat launch facilities. "Bear Cave is a nice campground. There is actually a cave in the campground that you can take a tour of while you are here. The campground is on the banks of the St. Joseph River in southwest Michigan. There is a boat launch and a few docks that can be used," notes Jerry S.
Explore Amish country: Take a short drive to nearby Amish communities from campgrounds in the area. "We enjoyed our stay at the Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park. The great thing about this park is it offers you access to the Flea Market," reports Andrew M., who adds, "Things we found to do in the area the flea market, visiting Shipshewana, Middlebury, and Elkhart, Windmill Museum, Black Pine Animal Sanctuary."
Visit the RV Hall of Fame: Campers staying at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney can access this unique museum. "This clean, well kept campground is really close to grand design. We stayed here to go tour the manufacturers process," mentions Robert P., while another camper noted they enjoyed "Elkhart and the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for their restroom facilities. At Camp Turkeyville RV Resort, guests appreciate the "family showers, individual showers, very clean and nice," as Julie B. notes, despite other concerns about her stay.
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. "There is a small beach and pool available with lots of places to walk, ride and explore," according to Melissa V. about Twin Mills Camping Resort. At Camp Turkeyville, "There are 127 sites all of them have a firepit and electric hook up and cement pad. There are showers and a camp store...everything looks updated recently."
Extra amenities for families: Recreational facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The park has a gate entrance for security. There is a large pool area and basketball court," Laura H. mentions about Twin Mills Camping Resort, adding, "Amenities: Pool, Clubhouse, Basketball, Volleyball, Picnic tables, Fire rings, Trash, Playground, Lake access, Beach area, Dock, Cabins, Tent sites."
What you should know
Cell service considerations: Internet access varies significantly across RV sites near Sturgis, Michigan. At Thousand Trails Bear Cave, "It's a very nice off the grid camping with no cell service but if you want wifi then its 5.95 per day or if your here for a week + then 34.95 for the month up to 4 devices is your best bet," advises Jack.
Hookup limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups at every site. "The only sewer hook-ups are all taken by seasonal campers," notes Jerry S. about Thousand Trails Bear Cave. Another camper mentioned, "If you do not get a full hook up, you have to pay $15 to get pumped out."
Seasonal considerations: Crooked Creek Campground and Cabins has strong seasonal appeal. "This is our normal spot for the summer. Clean restrooms, easy lake access, friendly vibes. Very quiet and laid back," writes Dustin H. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: While not all campgrounds have pools, several offer water recreation. "Family campground with restaurant, gift shop, camp store, ice cream parlor, and heated pool," Lydia T. notes about Camp Turkeyville RV Resort, though she cautions, "the campground is basically in a field with very little shade."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Fun for families, nice pool and bathrooms, putt putt, bring your bikes," advises Kelly L. about Twin Mills Camping Resort. Similarly, Camp Turkeyville has "volleyball pit, playground, and horseshoes."
River activities: Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park offers nearby river access. "River access at this campground so you can kayak about 5 hours to the public access and drive back. Or you can also rent kayaks near the public access and they will transport for you," explains Fred F.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: RV sites near Sturgis, Michigan vary in size and privacy. "Sites deep not very wide. Good for a quick stop," Barbara P. notes about Twin Mills. Similarly, at Thousand Trails Bear Cave, "The sites are a bit on the smaller side."
Dump station challenges: Some campgrounds have limited dump facilities. For those without sewer hookups, Thousand Trails Bear Cave offers an alternative: "they do have an onsite honeypot which will suck out your tanks for $10 each time around."
Power reliability issues: Some campgrounds experience electrical problems. At Harbor Cove RV Resort, one camper reported, "we had to keep hitting the Circuit Breaker every 5-10 minutes... It was all because their box couldn't handle the power. They even had the City come out to see why, and it was because their system was poorly set up."
