Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground

Michigan is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and for those of us living here, few places capture the essence of a perfect outdoor getaway quite like Holland State Park. Nestled on the shores of both Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa, this state park offers an exceptional camping experience at its Macatawa Campground. If you're looking for a convenient, scenic, and activity-rich destination for your next camping trip, look no that further.

Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground provides a diverse range of camping options, from shaded, wooded sites to more open, sunny spots, catering to various preferences. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the best of West Michigan’s outdoor offerings, all within easy reach of local amenities and attractions. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent-camping enthusiast, or a family looking for a memorable summer adventure, Macatawa Campground has something for everyone.

What sets this campground apart is its unique blend of serene natural surroundings and proximity to vibrant recreational opportunities. You can wake up to the sounds of nature, spend your day on the beach or exploring trails, and then enjoy a quiet evening under the stars. The park is designed to offer a safe, enjoyable, and well-maintained environment for all visitors, making it a truly exceptional choice for a local Michigan escape.

Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground is ideally situated at 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, USA. This prime location places campers right between the expansive waters of Lake Michigan and the calmer, inland Lake Macatawa. The accessibility is a significant draw for local Michigan residents, allowing for relatively short and convenient drives from many major cities in the state.

The campground’s strategic position means you're never far from the water. The Lake Macatawa Campground itself is located across the road from Lake Macatawa, offering easy access to its smaller swimming beach and various water activities. For those craving the grandeur of Lake Michigan, the iconic "Big Red" lighthouse and the vast sandy beaches are just a short walk or bike ride away, typically about a mile from the campground entrance. This proximity to both lakes offers unparalleled opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating, all within a stone's throw of your campsite.

Beyond the immediate waterfront, the campground boasts excellent connectivity to Holland’s extensive network of walking and biking trails. The Lakeshore Trail, a paved route stretching for miles, runs parallel to Lakeshore Drive, connecting Holland State Park to other scenic spots, including Grand Haven State Park. This makes it incredibly easy for campers to explore the beautiful West Michigan coastline by foot or bicycle, enjoying stunning views and fresh air without needing to drive. The nearby Mount Pisgah Dune Boardwalk also offers a fantastic opportunity for a scenic climb with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding area.

This central yet serene location truly enhances the camping experience, allowing local users to maximize their time enjoying the outdoors rather than spending it on long commutes. It’s a perfect blend of natural seclusion and convenient access to both lakeside recreation and the charming city of Holland, which offers a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences just a short drive away.

Services Offered:

• Modern Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restroom and shower buildings are located in each loop of the campground, including family bathrooms.
• Electrical Service: All campsites offer either 30-amp or 50-amp electrical service, accommodating various RV and tent camping needs.
• Sanitation Station: A convenient dump station with potable water and two lanes is available within the campground for RVs.
• Concession/Store: The campground office sells firewood and ice, with a larger beach store (Beachplace) at the Lake Michigan day-use area offering food, ice cream, beach supplies, and more.
• Playgrounds: There are play structures in each loop of the Lake Macatawa campground, as well as an accessible playground on the Lake Michigan day-use area.
• Assigned Parking: Each campsite typically includes space for two vehicles.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is readily available throughout the campground.

Features / Highlights:

• Two Campground Areas: Holland State Park offers two distinct camping experiences – the Lake Macatawa Campground with its wooded and sunny sites, and the Beach Campground (also part of Holland State Park, but a separate area) closer to Lake Michigan, ideal for RVs with full hook-up sites.
• Proximity to Water: Direct access to Lake Macatawa with a small swimming beach, and a short walk to the expansive Lake Michigan shoreline and its iconic "Big Red" lighthouse.
• Walking and Biking Trails: Abundant opportunities for outdoor exercise with numerous trails, including connections to the Lakeshore Trail for scenic long-distance biking and walking.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: With multiple playgrounds, nearby beaches, and a generally calm atmosphere, the campground is excellent for families with children.
• RV Friendly: The Macatawa Campground accommodates RVs up to 50 feet in length, with many paved lots and electrical hookups.
• Wooded and Open Sites: Campers can choose between shaded, wooded sites on the east side of the entrance for a more traditional camping feel, or more open, sunny sites on the west side.
• Designated Fire Rings: While some sites may not have individual fire pits, shared fire rings are available, and personal covered fire pits are generally allowed (check current regulations upon arrival).
• Strict Noise Policy: The campground maintains a strict noise policy and quiet hours (10 p.m. to 8 a.m.) to ensure a peaceful and relaxing experience for all campers.

While specific, ongoing promotions or special offers for Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground are not consistently advertised year-round, Michigan State Parks often have various initiatives that can benefit campers. It’s always recommended to check the official Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website or the Holland State Park dedicated page for the most up-to-date information on any potential discounts, seasonal rates, or special events.

For Michigan residents, a crucial aspect of visiting any state park, including Holland State Park, is the Michigan Recreation Passport. This annual pass provides vehicle access to all Michigan state parks and recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, and boat launches. Purchasing a Recreation Passport when you renew your license plate is the most convenient and cost-effective way to support the state park system and enjoy unlimited access throughout the year. While not a direct discount on camping fees, it significantly reduces the overall cost of frequent visits to Michigan’s beautiful outdoor spaces.

Additionally, look out for potential off-season rates, particularly during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when demand might be lower. Some parks may offer special programs or events that include discounted entry or camping for participants. Always inquire about senior citizen discounts or military veteran benefits, as these are often available at state-run facilities. Early booking, especially for popular weekends and holidays, is essential, as prime campsites at Holland State Park are in high demand and often book up months in advance.

Contact Information:

Address: 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, USA

Phone: (616) 399-9390

Mobile Phone: +1 616-399-9390

For those of us living in Michigan, Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for a local getaway. Its prime location on the shores of both Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa means you don't have to travel far to access some of the state's most iconic natural attractions. This convenience is a huge plus, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or even mid-week escapes without the hassle of long drives.

The campground offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether your idea of relaxation involves lounging on the sugar-sand beaches of Lake Michigan, taking a refreshing dip in the water, or enjoying the tranquility of Lake Macatawa, it's all right at your fingertips. For the active outdoor enthusiast, the extensive network of walking and biking trails, including connections to the Lakeshore Trail and the challenging ascent of Mount Pisgah, provides ample opportunities for exercise and exploration. The option to rent paddleboards, canoes, or kayaks on Lake Macatawa adds another layer of fun to your aquatic adventures.

Furthermore, the Macatawa Campground is designed with families in mind. The presence of multiple playgrounds, clean and warm showers, and a generally calm atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for parents looking to create lasting memories with their children. The strict noise policy ensures a peaceful environment, allowing for restful nights under the stars, a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Even with shared fire pits, the community feel of the campground encourages a friendly atmosphere while maintaining quiet enjoyment.

Being a state park, Holland State Park offers well-maintained facilities and a commitment to preserving Michigan's natural resources, ensuring a quality experience every time. The diverse range of campsites, from wooded and shaded to open and sunny, means you can choose the perfect spot that aligns with your camping style, whether you’re pitching a tent or parking an RV. The provision of electrical hookups and a sanitation station further enhances the convenience for RV campers.

Beyond the park itself, the charming city of Holland is just a short drive away, offering a delightful array of local shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. This proximity allows campers to easily combine their outdoor adventure with a taste of local Michigan culture, whether it's enjoying a meal out or exploring the quaint downtown area.

In essence, Holland State Park - Macatawa Campground provides a quintessential Michigan camping experience, offering accessibility, diverse activities, excellent amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. For local residents, it's not just a campground; it’s a readily available slice of paradise where you can unwind, explore, and create cherished memories without having to venture far from home. It embodies the very best of Michigan’s natural and recreational offerings, making it an excellent choice for your next outdoor escape.