Cat L.
Scout
ScoutPotato Creek State Park Campground
Great mid spring camping
Swimming, boating, fishing…this was a perfect weekend. The campground and park were easy to navigate and the DNR staff was very helpful and friendly. Highly recommend.
Best Campgrounds near Three Rivers, MI
Established campgrounds dominate the Three Rivers, Michigan region, with a mix of private resorts and public recreation areas providing diverse accommodation options. Several facilities like Cranberry Lake Campground and Shady Point Campground offer a combination of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals within 15-20 miles of Three Rivers. Most campgrounds in the area feature lakefront or riverside settings, with access to fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities on local waterways including the St. Joseph River and numerous small lakes throughout St. Joseph County.
Camping in the Three Rivers area operates primarily on a seasonal basis, with most facilities open from April through October. Water and electric hookups are standard at many locations, though full hookups with sewer connections vary by campground. Reservations are highly recommended during summer months, particularly for weekend stays and holiday periods when facilities reach capacity. Most campgrounds maintain shower houses and restroom facilities, though amenities differ significantly between locations. A camper noted, "The bathroom and showers were well maintained, and the campground has a well-stocked store with very reasonable prices."
Lakefront access represents a key feature of camping in the Three Rivers area, with several campgrounds offering direct water access. Cranberry Lake Campground receives mixed reviews but features popular water recreation options, while Shady Point Campground on Bair Lake earns praise for its swimming areas. Family-friendly amenities appear frequently in visitor feedback, with many campgrounds offering playgrounds, game rooms, and organized activities. A visitor commented that their family "enjoyed the playground, swimming in the lake and jumping off the floating pad." For those seeking quieter experiences, several campgrounds like Melville 7 Lakes offer more secluded sites with reasonable separation between camping areas. Most campgrounds in the region support both tent and RV camping, though tent-specific amenities may be limited at some of the more RV-focused properties.
Best Camping Sites Near Three Rivers, Michigan (172)
1. Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney
11 ReviewsMiddlebury, IN16 milesWebsite+1 (574) 347-6889"They have trails that are a nice walk for the dogs and a pond to catch and release fish."
"This clean, well kept campground is really close to grand design. We stayed here to go tour the manufacturers process."
2. Ebys Pines
12 ReviewsBristol, IN17 milesWebsite+1 (574) 848-4583"Trails lead to a local County park - Bonneyville Mill. There’s a roller skating rink and laser tag across the street."
3. Cranberry Lake Campground
3 ReviewsMarcellus, MI8 milesWebsite+1 (269) 646-3336"The kids and dog really enjoyed the playground, swimming in the lake and jumping off the floating pad. There were little cabins and trailers for rent but we had our own camper."
"Park near store and get great WiFi....I spent 14 days streaming, gaming and watching movies. This is campground is definitely a diamond in the sand."
4. Shady Point Campground
2 ReviewsVandalia, MI10 milesWebsite+1 (269) 244-5702"Was in a pull behind . Everything was easy and calm . Kids loves it . No problems"
"It sits on Bair Lake and was great for swimming. The bathroom and showers were well maintained."
5. Fort Custer Recreation Area
44 ReviewsAugusta, MI30 milesWebsite+1 (269) 731-4200"Fort Custer is a hidden gem in Michigan. Nobody thinks to go camping near Battle Creek, but they really should reconsider!"
"Another great camping experience, site 210 has an amazing trail that leads directly to the showers at one end and at the other path went directly to running water, plus only a couple of yards from a great"
6. Lakeside Campground
1 ReviewVandalia, MI11 milesWebsite+1 (231) 244-84908. Melville 7 Lakes
4 ReviewsMarcellus, MI14 miles$25 / night
"Access to several lakes including all sports"
"Lake for boating and fishing. Has a small swimming area, playground."
9. Twin Mills Camping Resort
7 ReviewsHowe, IN18 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"We had another couple that we camped with and were able to get two sites next to each other."
"We frequent this location when getting RV Repairs and visiting Elkhart, the birth place of most RVs. There are cabins and tent sites and a large lake access point with a beach area."
10. Cade Lake County Park & Campground
4 ReviewsSturgis, MI17 milesWebsite+1 (269) 651-3330$30 - $40 / night
"Cade Lake can be seen from most campsites which adds to the scenery. Biking or walking trails, with frisbee golf course. We have been here twice and will probably go here once every year at least"
"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!"
Recent Camping Photos near Three Rivers, MI
197 Photos of 172 Three Rivers Campgrounds
Dave E.
Cranberry Lake Campground
Nicole P.
Shady Point Campground
Mike N.
Oak Shores Resort Campground
RJourney R.
Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney
Jackie F.
KOA Campground Middlebury
Sean H.
Ebys Pines
Laura H.
Twin Mills Camping Resort
Joshua B.
Shipshewana Trading Place RV Park
Sam M.
Forest Haven
Liz K.
Trading Post Outfitters
Nancy W.
Elkhart County Fairgrounds
fred F.
Crooked Creek Campground and Cabins
Recent Reviews near Three Rivers, MI
736 Reviews of 172 Three Rivers Campgrounds
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.
Tiffany H.ScoutNorth Trace RV Resort
Great Resort
Amazing new resort! All paved and concrete- very clean and offers some amazing amenities! Less then 5 minutes to lake Wawasee (the largest lake in Indiana). if you have a dog this place is a MUST they have an amazing dog spa and dog park. The staff was also so friendly and helpful, made me feel right at home - I didn't want to leave. I will defiantly return!
Kaley A.GuidePokagon State Park Campground
Nice park from what I could see
This is the second time I’ve been to this park. Neither time was I able to really see the park (kids), so that is the only reason I have it a 4.
I really liked our campsite. We were in the middle of a circle drive and had the whole inner circle to ourselves, which was nice for the kids to play. It was a HUGE campsite with a fairly long back in driveway. The site was slopped, especially close to the power source. It was a bit annoying for us as tent campers but not so much that I wouldn’t rent this site again.
We weren’t all that far from water, the bathhouse, and trash services as well as a natural water spring and a trail to hike.
- Sheila S.Scout
Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday
Horrible staff
We couldn't set up a tent on our lot. Price is outrageous for visitors!! Staff is very rude. You rent a gold cart and they started yelling at my grandson who they had just sold an ice cream cone to that he had better not get that ice cream all over the cart.
Gerard E.
RangerPokagon State Park Campground
Camp 26
May 1-5, 2026 site 322, 48 degrees and light drizzle at setup.
Site is level, but drops down in the mud and grass, pad is barely wide enough to set up table without being on an angle. Site barely fits 21’ trailer and RAM 1500
Cellular T-Mobile 5g, 3bars Electric, 20, 30 and 50 amp.
Bathroom is separate from showers, older but decent. A nice grassy area close to site 322 and 324. Shade and sun Fire pit sits in low area, do expect puddles if raining.
Firewood was$8, dry, burned well. Close to bike/walking trail and a few hundred feet from store. Easy check in, Pokagon is a favorite park of ours as it offers miles of hiking trails.
- Gerard E.Ranger
Pokagon State Park Campground
Camp 26
May 1-5, 2026
site 322, 48 degrees and light drizzle at setup. Site is level, but drops down in the mud and grass, pad is barely wide enough to set up table without being on an angle.
Site barely fits 21’ trailer and RAM 1500
Cellular T-Mobile 5g, 3bars Electric, 20, 30 and 50 amp.
Bathroom is separate from showers, older but decent. A nice grassy area close to site 322 and 324. Shade and sun Fire pit sits in low area, do expect puddles if raining. Firewood was$8, dry, burned well.
Close to bike/walking trail and a few hundred feet from store. Easy check in, Pokagon is a favorite park of ours as it offers miles of hiking trails.
JeremyScoutSpaulding Lake Campground
Peaceful Camping
I've stayed here before and the owners are really chill and keep the place nice and clean. It's very peaceful and good fishing. I even saw the salmon swimming upstream when I was there. The pond was crystalline clear and maintained. There are walking trails as well and overall a really good place to camp. Highly recommend!!
- Gerard E.Ranger
Potato Creek State Park Campground
Early Camp
April 19-21, 2026 Site 231 Level with gravel pad, large pad for ground mat. Good fire pit and 4 person picnic table. The park is greening up quickly and people were carrying bags of morels out of the woods. Our Apex Nano is 21’ long and fit well with our RAM 1500. One tree for partial shade, open end lots and you will feel the breeze. Would be a good spot with friends back to back at site 199. Cellular was 2 bars 5G with T-Mobile Electric was 20,30 and 50amp
Guide to Three Rivers
Camping near Three Rivers, Michigan centers around lakes and rivers that make up the region's distinct ecosystem. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with mild humidity compared to other Michigan regions, making May through October the prime camping season. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations due to harsh winter conditions when temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney features a fishing pond for catch and release. A camper noted, "They have trails that are a nice walk for the dogs and a pond to catch and release fish."
Mountain biking trails: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems for mountain biking enthusiasts. A reviewer explained, "There are quite a few mountain bike trails on the other side of the recreation area. A horse trail circles around the outside edge."
Explore Amish country: Many campgrounds near Three Rivers provide access to Amish communities. At Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney, campers can experience local culture. One visitor shared, "About 10 minutes drive to Shipshewana with very kind Amish community folks."
Water recreation: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers multiple lakes for water activities. A camper mentioned, "Several no wake lakes for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. One lake with swimming beach."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots. A visitor at Melville 7 Lakes noted, "Nice quiet, large sites, playground, small beach area. Access to several lakes including all sports."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently comment on well-maintained amenities. At Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney, a visitor appreciated that "the restrooms/showers are nice and clean. You can get an entire 4 wheeler dump load of wood for $20. It's nice dry wood."
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds feature dedicated swimming zones. A camper at Ebys Pines mentioned, "There's a roller skating rink and laser tag across the street. Bathrooms were well maintained, although the water hammer noise when you flush is a bit scary at first!"
Dark night skies: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers excellent stargazing. A visitor appreciated "the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Ebys Pines advised, "Stayed here 3 nights in October campground has most of the attractions (pool etc) closed as expected but still charged visitors $5 per person per day. And charged $5 per device per day for WiFi."
Site variations: Campsite quality varies significantly within the same campground. A camper at Twin Mills Camping Resort observed, "Certain areas are still nice and others look like a homeless shanty town. It seems they target the seasonal campers over the weekend family/group campers."
Insect preparation: Wooded campgrounds require bug protection. A Fort Custer Recreation Area visitor warned, "Lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent."
Amenity costs: Some campgrounds charge for additional services. A visitor at Ebys Pines mentioned, "Don't forget quarters for the shower house!! The lady that runs the shower house was nice enough to give me some but it is a dollar for 9 minutes which seemed to be plenty of time for a camp shower."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Cade Lake County Park & Campground, a visitor reported, "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."
Water recreation options: Family campers appreciate water activities. At Cranberry Lake Campground, a visitor shared, "The kids and dog really enjoyed the playground, swimming in the lake and jumping off the floating pad."
Entertainment facilities: Some campgrounds provide additional recreation. A visitor to Ebys Pines mentioned, "Tons of stuff to do for campers of all ages. Roller skating, mini bowling, laser tag, and an arcade at the fun center."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds organize special events. A camper at Ebys Pines noted, "There was a corn hole tournament, a golf cart parade, a wagon ride, and a live band."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on your RV size. At Shady Point Campground, a camper advised, "Was in a pull behind. Everything was easy and calm. Kids loves it. No problems."
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer limited connections. At Fort Custer Recreation Area, campers should know that "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station."
Spacing considerations: Some campgrounds have tight arrangements. A visitor to Ebys Pines observed, "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."
Connection quality: Internet access varies significantly. A visitor at Twin Mills Camping Resort mentioned, "Internet is through a paid campground service and was $5/day but was actually very good. Not too sure how service would be during peak season."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Three Rivers, Michigan?
What are the best campgrounds in Three Rivers, Michigan?
The Three Rivers area offers several excellent camping options. Thousand Trails Bear Cave is a quaint campground with a clubhouse featuring a library and air hockey, plus amenities like a playground, pool, and walking trails. For those seeking a lakeside experience, Cranberry Lake Campground near Marcellus provides boat-in access and full facilities. Other notable options include Shady Point Campground and Cade Lake County Park & Campground near Sturgis, both offering water access and toilets. The region's campgrounds provide convenient bases for exploring southwestern Michigan's lakes, trails, and natural beauty.
What amenities are available at Three Rivers Michigan campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Three Rivers Michigan campgrounds?
Campgrounds around Three Rivers offer diverse amenities to enhance your stay. Covert Park Beach & Campground features electrical hookups, water connections, and modern shower facilities with private, lockable uni-sex showers. The campground is well-maintained with beach access. Van Buren State Park Campground provides clean shower houses with free hot water, electrical sites, and is a short walk to Lake Michigan's shores with impressive sand dunes. Other area campgrounds commonly offer amenities such as water hookups, toilet facilities, reservable sites, and recreational features like swimming pools, playgrounds, and hiking trails. Many campgrounds are also big-rig friendly for RV campers.
Are there vacation rentals available near the Three Rivers campgrounds?
Are there vacation rentals available near the Three Rivers campgrounds?
Yes, vacation rental options are available near Three Rivers campgrounds. Weko Beach Campground offers cabins directly on Lake Michigan, providing an excellent alternative to traditional camping. The cabins are within walking distance to the beach, making them perfect for those wanting lakefront accommodations without camping equipment. Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday is another option with rental accommodations in the area. For those seeking additional vacation rental options, check local listings for cottages, cabins, and homes available near popular outdoor destinations in the Three Rivers region.
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