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Located on the Eastern shoreline of Lake Michigan, Van Buren State Park, located 3 miles south of South Haven Michigan is one of a series of state parks located along Michigan's beautiful Lake Michigan coast. One of the best-kept secrets on Lake Michigan is that there are some of the world's best beaches here, with fine sand, fresh water, and you don't have to worry about not being at the top of the food chain when you go in the water. I have been to beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Magen's Bay in St. Thomas, Trunk Bay in St. Johns, Orient Beach in St. Maartin, as well as many others. I'll stack up Lake Michigan's beaches against any of those beaches (at least in the July-August timeframe). While it is true that the weather only allows you a couple of months per year to really enjoy the beach, that is perhaps the price of living in paradise.
Driving distance from Chicago to Grand Haven, Mi is around 100 miles, so it is a very popular vacation spot for those wanting to leave the city for a short period of time. Van Buren State Park is a bit isolated from the beach on Lake Michigan, which is about a 1/2 mile walk. Although it is somewhat isolated from the beach, this means that bad weather and high winds along Lake Michigan does not quite affect the campsites as it would be if you were right on the beach. Like most state parks in Michigan, campsites are be reservation - however, around 20 of the 220 campsites are "local sale" only, which means you have to be on-site to obtain the campsite. This provides some ability for those that did not reserve a site to obtain one.
The frontage of Grand Haven State Park can provide some spectacular views of the Lake Michigan beach. Sunsets are to die for, is one of the few spots in the US that you can view dramatic sunsets over water. The beach area does close at dusk, so if you are watching the sunset, you have to walk to the beach from your campground, otherwise your car will be locked inside the gates of the beach parking area. There is a small store near the beach where you can buy snacks, beach toys, and other items, but their selection is limited. The one thing you don't want to forget is your camera... from the sunsets, to Lake Michigan itself, to the rustic nature of the campsites, there is a lot a photo bug can take in.
The campground itself is grassy lots, but well weathered (that means dirt) where the typical RV'er will park their rig. Therefore you will want broom or other way to keep dirt out of your camper. Campsites are nice and large, and mostly level, but some spots will require blocks or other leveling apparatus. Each site typically has a picnic table and fire pit, and 30Amp electrical. Some, but not all sites offer 50Amp service, so make sure you reserve a 50Amp site should you need one. Shade is adequate at the campsites, with most having several trees as well as sunny areas.
Van Buren State Park.
References: Van Buren State Park Maps and other information.
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