The best camping near Fort Custer State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fort Custer State Park adventure.

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Stay at a public campground in Fort Custer State Park

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Fort Custer Campground

222 sites · RVs, Tents In Fort Custer State Park

Explore camping beyond Fort Custer State ParkDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in State Parks

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Custer State Park

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Campit Outdoor Resort Saugatuck

49 sites · Lodging, Tents36 acres · Fennville, MI

Campit is a LGBTQ + resort that is open to all. We are 21+ only on all weekends. We are a membership community requiring a valid $15 yearly membership. We are a beautiful 36 acre resort offering themed weekends from April 1st to October 31st. Many options to fit any budget including $10 tenting, RV sites, many cabin options, and a bed and breakfast style lodging unit. The resort features a large heated pool, general store, 4 large bathhouses, and many trails throughout the park. Campit emphasizes giving back in all of our themed weekends by hosting charitable after parties supporting Woman, Transgender Health, LGBTQ Youth, and so much more. Campit is a 21+ Resort Friday-Sunday, and Thursday-Monday on Holiday weekends. Guests with children are welcome on weekday stays. We are a membership community and guests must have a valid yearly membership of $15.00 that can be purchased directly after booking or at the time of check in.

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2Chicks And A Farm

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Bangor, MI

7 camp sites, 1 RV site, 2 Yurts, a Bohemian camp site, and new this year two walk-in sites (we can take your gear with the UTV). One with Tippee's and the other with Hammocks. 2Chicks And A Farm is a small working farm on 20 acres. 15 minutes from South Haven and the lake. 30 minutes from the city of Kalamazoo. And just under an hour from Grand Rapids. About half of the 20 acres is wooded, which is where three of our camp sites are located. Each one has a fire ring and wooden picnic table. One site, capable of taking a mid sized RV / Fifth Wheel, is located on the front of the property with easy access from the road. It backs up to some trails and and brush / wood area and has a corn field to the right. So, even though on the front on the property, you have a feeling of privacy. It too has a fire pit and wooden picnic table. Three camp sites are located in the pasture. One is at the bottom of the pasture and quite open. It can accommodate larger groups with multiple tents. A more secluded half open and half in light woods., and is located at the top of the pasture. Then another in the middle of the pasture, one for sun lovers and one for those who prefer more shade. For those who prefer more seclusion, we have cleared three sites in the woods. All sites have a fire ring, or metal fire pit, and wooden picnic table. Some have fire wood boxes (we’re working on making a box for all sites). We have an outdoor propane shower that provides both hot and cold water. This is free. A coffee bar is on the back deck. Coffee is brewing around 7am. We also provide hot water, teas, hot chocolate and cider. Feeling a little peckish before breakfast, or after dinner? Help yourself to a snack. This is all free, though small donations are welcomed. Our goats, poultry, pigs, and dogs and produce take up about an acre and a half. Then the rest is open space. You are welcome to collect eggs for breakfast and fresh produce from our gardens (additional fee). Use the BBQ or smoker. And even join in on farm chores if you are so inclined. Please try to plan to check-in by 9pm. Exceptions can be made. There are locally mandated quiet hours (10-7 Sun through Thur, and 11-7 Fri and Sat). Hanging out by a fire and chatting is fine.

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Tincan Camp

3 sites · Lodging, RVs7 acres · Bloomingdale, MI

This fun property is just under 7 acres - butted up to another 12 acres of public land (and boat launch) with trails, boardwalk and a dock on 51 acre Lake Eleven. The property is shared by (2) full-hook up RV sites and a cabin. If available, the cabin and sites may be rented together however the owners, Jim and Maria, use the cabin much of the summer leaving just the RV sites available. The property is at mile market 13 of the Kal-Haven Trail - the midpoint. The Kal-Haven Trail is a biking, cross-country skiing, walking, running, snowmobiling - you name it, the trail that goes 34 miles from Kalamazoo to South Haven. Literally steps from the property and you are on the trail. But you may not need to leave the property, with 6.3 acres of woods and field, with trail cut through PLUS the added public lands butted up to Tincan's property line, giving almost 20 acres to roam. Each RV site - far enough apart to be separate, close enough if you and friends/family want to camp together, has a fire pit and fireplace. Each RV site offers water, 30|50AMP electrical and septic. The dock may have availability for keeping you boat - please inquire. There are kayaks and some bikes (mostly teen and adult size) that may be used. These are shared amenities for the cabin and campsite guests and offered on a first come, first serve basis. There are surprises galore around the property; big foots to be found tucked around the property, games, and overall just a fun place to be. This was a run-down fishing cabin Jim and Maria lovingly brough back to life as a second home and they delight in sharing it. Jim often referred to it as "The Tincan" while working on it as it was - indeed, a tin shack and the name stuck. Kate, your booking coordinator, helps Jim and Maria tend to the administrative side of getting the property booked and keeping the details in order. Once booked you'll get contact info for Kate, who will take care of most communications and logistics, and Jim/Maria who will also be available to help as needed.

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McCormick Artisans Woods/River

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Jonesville, MI

We bought this property in 2012 and have built several buildings and forged paths throughout the 32 acres. Our road is part of the North Country Trail, a footpath stretching over 4,600 miles from Middlebury in central Vermont to Lake Sakakawea State Park in central North Dakota. While tearing down the existing house, we constructed two bedrooms in the pole barn for a quick living space. Once settled in the pole barn, we a built a small log cabin with already felled timbers from the local woods, except for the box frame which was purchased from the local Amish. Prior to building our permanent log cabin home, this small cabin was our camp site and is now being rented to people that want to relax and enjoy the outdoors. In the middle of the woods, we created a campground to be enjoyed by hikers and on the North side of our property is a tree line between two fields that is a great small camper/tent camping spot.

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DayDreamer Domes

11 sites · Lodging, RVs150 acres · South Haven, MI

Welcome to DayDreamer Domes, your ultimate escape into luxury and adventure nestled in the picturesque South Haven, MI. Spanning 150 acres of breathtaking landscape, our new and innovative retreat combines the charm of modern design with the allure of nature. Immerse yourself in our gold 4-season geodesic domes, each equipped with cozy queen beds, heat/ ac/ ceiling fans/ plush luxury linens, and private bath facilities including bathtubs and toilets. Open all winter long you'll find perfect comfort in every season. Unwind by our heated pool, or dive into relaxation with a session in our two state-of-the-art sensory float tanks. Our on-site restaurant serves up delicious meals, while our unique shop is brimming with special finds and treasures. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at our giant DJ booth and gather around our community fire pits for a night under the stars. With 9 modified containers and a full calendar of exciting special events, there's always something new to discover and enjoy. DayDreamer Domes offers unparalleled access to all amenities, including our Pool Club, ensuring every moment of your stay is filled with relaxation and adventure. Come check in at DayDreamer, so you can check out for a while and experience the perfect blend of comfort and excitement. Book your stay today and let DayDreamer Domes be your gateway to a memorable getaway.

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Campout at Hostel SoHa

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · South Haven, MI

IMPORTANT: We are closing for the season October 27th and will open again in April. If anyone is visiting here during the colder months and would like to stay past this date, you may still request a booking and we will accommodate you IF we are able. Instant bookings will resume in springtime with upgraded amenities and sites. ----------------------------- ANNOUNCEMENT: Thank you all for an amazing (unofficial) first season at Hostel SoHa. As anyone who has stayed has learned, we have been working tirelessly on opening up bunk rooms, showers, a kitchen, new and improved common spaces, and more. We look forward to you seeing all our incredible progress when we officially open in the spring. Guests from this passed 2024 season, please stay tuned for an invite to the grand opening celebration in May. Everyone else, we can't wait to host you as soon as the weather is warm again! ----------------------------- Hostel SoHa is two 5,000 square foot buildings on 7 acres of private land in the process of being renovated into the first traveler's hostel in west Michigan. This summer, prior to opening our indoor accommodations, we are welcoming campers to the property to use our facilities, have a preview of the property and buildings before they are officially open, and enjoy summertime in South Haven! We are located directly off M-43 and only a 5 minute drive to the beach; downtown South Haven; and Walmart, Aldi, and Meijer. We are also a 5 minute drive from the Kal-Haven trailhead and can help hikers and bike-packers arrange a pick up or drop off from there. The Bangor Train Station is a 12 minute drive and we can also help arrange pick up and drop off from there. This fun and central location is best suited for adults ages 18-35, but we welcome anyone looking for a more social and unique experience. This is a adult/traveler friendly environment and is not recommended for families or individuals looking for a private getaway. Who We Recommend This Stay To: ✔Budget Travelers ✔Solo Travelers ✔Large Groups ✔University Students ✔Van Lifers/Bus Lifers ✔Young Adults ✔International Visitors ✔Car-Campers ✔Backpackers ✔Bike-Packers ✔Campers ✔Any And All Travelers There are indoor bathrooms (showers not open yet) and an indoor common area with a phone charging station, lockers for valuables (BYO lock), fridge/freezer, microwave, coffee maker, pool table, clean water spigot and hose, board games, and seating. There is a lit outdoor picnic/bonfire space with yard games and a covered patio and seating area. If you have any questions regarding the space, shuttles, our children policies (16+ no need to ask), or your booking please don't hesitate to reach out. There are upgrades made to this area daily and the pictures and current amenities might not completely encapsulate all the features of our property. Extra Amenities: Kayak Rentals with Pick Up/Drop Off (if needed) - $30/person Electric Hookup for Camping Rig - $10/night We hope to see you soon!

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Forest Haven RV Park and Campground

52 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Decatur, MI

Tucked away in the lush expanse of a 70-acre hardwood forest, our RV park just south of Decatur, Michigan, is a haven for campers and RV enthusiasts. Offering 100 fully-equipped 30-amp full hookup sites and 10 picturesque tent sites with both water and electricity, we accommodate a range of outdoor preferences. Whether you're seeking a quick escape or a prolonged sojourn, our versatile lodging options include nightly, weekly, monthly, and seasonal rates tailored to your itinerary. With many of our sites occupied by friendly seasonal guests, it's the perfect environment for making new friends and creating cherished memories. Join us where tranquility and adventure converge in the heart of nature.

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Life Adventures

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents43 acres · Saranac, MI

Sleep to the sound of tree frogs, owls, distant coyotes, and maybe even wake to sounds of chickens in the morning. Walk thru a glitter of fire flies down a trail at night. My black labs Luke and Kiwi will likely visit your site to say hello and are super chill. 2 disc golf Black Hole Pro baskets on site to practice with. Only 30 minutes east of Grand Rapids, this property was established as a Youth Camp for 15 years is now a private event venue and campground, so it has nice amenities like FULL restrooms, a picnic shelter, and even a few small cabins that can be rented. Swimming beach is available in Lowell a few miles away. Fishing rivers and lakes are also in the area. (live bait in Saranac) Woods site and Open Area have a few different locations you can choose from. If woods or open shows booked already, please contact me. Additional fee of $20 per extra tent/camper that sleeps an adult. Picnic shelter is also available. Use my website to RSVP entire camp area for an event such as wedding.

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Sheepy Acres

6 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Lagrange, IN

Small hobby sheep farm, with a sheep pasture surrounded by woods. There are two shepherd's huts, three tent sites, a small fishing pond with a log cabin and a quarter of a mile hiking trail. It is a bird lovers paradise with a large variety of birds. The fisherman's cabin has electricity. The shepherd's huts are off grid, as well as, the tent sites. Each site is very private and has a fire ring and picnic table and benches.

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The Blue Cottage

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Fennville, MI

We have a wooded 3 acre lot nestled between the popular vacation destinations of South Haven and Saugatuck. We have one campsite on our property that is home to a 16 foot bell tent on a raised deck. Public beach access in Glenn is a 10 minute walk from our property or a 1 minute drive (limited parallel parking on 114th street) Nearby attractions include numerous wineries, breweries, restaurants and more. Within walking distance is a full service convenience store that serves some of the best pizza around. The towns of Saugatuck, Douglas, Fennville and South Haven are all approximately a ten minute drive.

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Have A Lake Of Your Own!

10 sites · Lodging, Tents150 acres · Lawrence, MI

The property was originally owned by a family name Nichols (thus the name of the lake). It was handed down to the sons who each owned half the property. The driveway down the middle of property that leads to the lake was originally a fence line that divided the two pieces of property. The brothers did not get along and their are several stories of their warring on how to maintain the property.My parents bought this piece of property in 1964 and created a camp called "Lakeside Farm Camp", a small all boys camp. The camp has gone through several changes since then but has always been owned by the Edwards family. In 1984 the name was changed to "Cedar Lodge" a coed camp that specializes in English horseback riding and offering high level general camp activities. Enjoy the peace and quiet of our totally private fresh water lake. Take your boat out for a day of fishing or just chill next to the fire. Sites are approximately 50 feet from each other. If you want privacy we suggest you book both.

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Retreat Center Campsites

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Fennville, MI

The Retreat Campsites are situated on land owned by the Red Spirit Retreat Center. The beautiful wooded land is perfect for walking in. The stars are like brilliant diamonds, and in mid June the fireflies float up from the prairie into the trees by the hundreds. It is pretty quiet except for the birds and the bullfrogs and your own crackling campfire. In the spring the fruit trees can be seen blooming across the fields. Straw is grown on the neighbor's farm and cut and baled midsummer. The farm buildings are off in the distance but have gleaming white buildings and silver silos. Guests may walk wherever they like on trails or bushwhack through the forests of the Red Spirit Retreat Center. Each campsite is unique and pretty private. While you may see other campers you probably can't hear them as they are about half a city block away through the trees. Staying at the Country Dome Home is an amazing experience. Located on a hill at the top of the prairie, the view of farms and forests is spectacular. To enjoy the view, the front window is 8 feet tall and 11 feet wide. The 12 foot ceiling enlarges the room tremendously. There is an awesome feeling of spaciousness. On a warm day 8 foot wide by 3 foot high screens can be opened up to let and with the screen door to let breezes blow through. The solar fan then pulls the heat right out of the roof. Outside there is a patio sail providing shade. A lovely dinner can be cooked on a propane griddle while watching the view. Refurbished Jordan Brown Tamiami table and chairs and a chaise lounge provide comfortable seating. Deck chairs are out on the front deck as well. Sitting around the campfire is a great way to end the day. About 9 pm hundreds or thousands of fireflies slowly make their way to the tops of the huge trees and the stars start to twinkle as the sun sets. The birds, crickets, and bullfrogs gradually quiet down, lulling you to sleep in the most comfortable bed in the world. You feel at one with nature.. Stay at the dome in the fall or early spring and the wood stove will keep you toasty warm on chilly nights. Three rustic campsites with their own personalities are also on the land but hidden by trees. The Frog Pond Campsite is a in a sylvan glade next to the pond and creek, with parking immediately next to the campsite. The Edges and Deep Forest Campsites are both larger campsites that are located inside the forest near the Prairie. These sites are separated far enough apart to allow for a very private feeling. Each campsite has parking space very close by. All campsites have their own private composting toilets, fire pits, one bundle of wood, sanitary spray, toilet paper, and at least three gallons of water. At the Deer Blind more wood is available at the Deer Blind for $10 per bundle with Venmo or PayPal. There are two yoga mats, frisbees, bubbles, and a corn hole game for borrowing. You may request a one night stay, but it is dependent upon my availability to clean in between guests. We hope that our guests have a truly beautiful, quiet, and relaxing stay.

The best camping near Fort Custer State Park guide

Overview

About

Where can you ride your horse or bike on miles of trails, swim in one of three pristine lakes, and then play a rowdy round of Frisbee golf? Fort Custer is the place, with all that and more. Let’s talk for a minute about the Frisbee golf. This is not your run-of-the-mill golf course. We’re talking world championship Frisbee here—par 57! When you’re all worn out from a day on the course, you can head to the beach or the showers, and then end your day in a rustic cabin, or your own home away from home. We didn’t even mention the fishing, the canoeing, or the prairie restoration areas, but you’ll find it at Fort Custer—your one stop shop for outdoor adventure.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Fort Custer State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are less ideal due to cold temperatures and limited access to some park areas.

Know before you go

Ensure you have a Recreation Passport for park entry, as it's required for all visitors.
Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before your visit to pack appropriately.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
Remember to leave no trace and dispose of trash responsibly to preserve the park's natural beauty.
For any inquiries or assistance, contact the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Fort Custer?

Yes, you can swim at Fort Custer Recreation Area in Michigan. The recreation area features three lakes, and swimming is allowed at Eagle Lake and Jackson Hole Lake. There is a designated swimming beach at Eagle Lake, providing a safe and enjoyable spot for swimmers. For more information about Fort Custer, visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources page.