Tent camping near Three Oaks, Michigan offers access to sandy lakefront beaches, forest landscapes, and blueberry fields within a 30-mile radius. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions requiring additional layers. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through October due to Michigan's cold winters.
What to do
Blueberry picking experiences: During summer months, Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday offers unique access to on-site blueberry fields. "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!" notes one camper. Picking typically runs from late July through early September.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide fishing access without needing to leave the property. At Covert/South Haven KOA, "On site fishing ponds are catch and release with lots of active fish to enjoy." No fishing license required for the private ponds, though you'll need to bring your own gear.
Biking adventures: The area connects to extensive trail networks. "We rode 47 miles round trip from Bloomingdale to Bell's Brewery in Kalamazoo," reports a visitor who used the Kal-Haven bike trail while staying at Covert/South Haven KOA. The trail stretches 33.5 miles from South Haven to Kalamazoo with crushed limestone surface suitable for most bikes.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Shady Point Campground receives consistent praise for well-maintained bathrooms. "The bathroom and showers were well maintained," reports one family who spent four nights there. Most campgrounds in the area provide shower access, though availability can be limited during peak weekend hours.
Lake swimming access: Tent campers appreciate the natural swimming options. "It sits on Bair Lake and was great for swimming," notes a Shady Point visitor. Swimming areas typically lack lifeguards, so appropriate supervision for children is necessary. Water temperatures remain comfortable from mid-June through early September.
Family-oriented activities: Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday organizes regular programming for younger campers. "They have movie nights, we met Disney characters, did crafts, and enjoyed the barrel train & ice cream sundaes," reports a family visitor. Many activities are included with camping fees, though some specialty events carry small additional charges.
What you should know
Sand conditions: Michigan's southwestern soil composition affects camping comfort. At Sweet Cherry Resort, "Tent sites are all in one cleared area that is a short walk from the parking spots." Campers should bring extra ground sheets or thicker sleeping pads to accommodate the sandy terrain.
Seasonal operations: Most tent camping in this region occurs between May and October, with variable opening and closing dates. Coloma/St. Joseph KOA operates "May 1 to October 12," with peak season during July and August when weekend reservations require booking 2-3 weeks in advance.
Walk-in tent areas: Several campgrounds separate tent areas from RV sections. At Sweet Cherry Resort, tent sites require "a short walk from the parking spots," so campers should plan accordingly with equipment that can be carried easily. Wagon rentals aren't typically available at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for children: Central Avenue Walk-in Sites lacks swimming pools, but nearby KOAs offer water recreation. "Nice pool, hot tub, movie for kids, train ride for kids," notes a visitor to Coloma/St. Joseph KOA, though they caution it's "just too crowded for our tastes." Pool hours typically run 10am-8pm during summer.
Site selection considerations: For families with small children, request sites near restrooms and play areas. "It was small enough for our kids to ride bikes around alone and they frequented the park, which we could see from our site," mentions a visitor at Coloma/St. Joseph KOA. Corner sites typically offer more space but book quickly.
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and organized activities keep younger campers entertained. At Lakeside Campground, the "owners were super nice and found room for us," making accommodations for families even during busy periods. Most campgrounds in the area provide basic play equipment, though offerings vary considerably.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing awareness: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. At Coloma/St. Joseph KOA, one camper noted "The actual spots aren't huge, but since the campground is smaller that wasn't a shock." Most tent-focused campgrounds have limited full-hookup sites.
Accessibility considerations: Shady Point Campground accommodates larger rigs but has a significant seasonal camper population. "This is a campground that is mostly seasonal campers," reports a visitor, noting they still "spent 4 nights here and the staff was extremely accommodating." Call ahead for availability if you're not a seasonal resident.
Mud preparation: Spring and fall camping can bring wet conditions. At Coloma/St. Joseph KOA, campers advise, "Bring rain boots for mud!" following heavy rainfall. Elevated sites tend to drain better, so request higher ground when making reservations during rainy seasons.
