Shelp's Resort & RV Campground

Are you a Michigan family dreaming of summer days filled with splashing in a lake, telling campfire stories, and making memories that will last a lifetime? Shelp's Resort & RV Campground in Plainwell, MI, is a cherished, family-owned destination that has been creating these very experiences for generations. Nestled on the beautiful shores of Pine Lake, this resort offers a blend of classic campground charm and convenient amenities, making it a perfect spot for locals seeking an engaging and relaxing lakeside getaway.

Our aim with this article is to provide you, our fellow Michiganders, with a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what Shelp's Resort & RV Campground truly offers. We’ll delve into its picturesque location, highlight the essential services and remarkable features that define its family-friendly atmosphere, and explain why it remains a compelling choice for locals looking to enjoy the best of Michigan's outdoor recreation. From the cleanliness of its facilities to the friendliness of its staff, Shelp's Resort is designed to support memorable family vacations.

Shelp's Resort & RV Campground boasts a rich history, originating in the early 1800s as a vineyard and hotel, and evolving over the last 75 years to become the beloved campground it is today. This family-owned and operated establishment is built on a legacy of hospitality, with a clear focus on creating a welcoming and fun environment for all its guests. The resort hugs the shoreline of Pine Lake, a significant feature that immediately sets the tone for a water-centric vacation experience.

The campground is designed with families in mind, evident from the enthusiastic feedback about kids enjoying the playground and the general atmosphere of summer fun. It offers a variety of camping options, primarily catering to RVs and seasonal campers, with shaded and grassy sites. Some prime sites are even directly on the lake with private docks, offering unparalleled access to Pine Lake. Beyond just camping, Shelp's provides a small, yet well-stocked, camp store offering essentials like pizza, subs, ice cream, gas, and groceries, minimizing the need to leave the resort for basic needs. The presence of a marina right next door further enhances the lake experience, offering boat and pontoon rentals for those eager to explore the waters of Pine Lake. The resort's commitment to maintaining a clean and friendly environment is consistently praised by visitors, making it a reliable choice for a comfortable stay. From nightly campfires to the sandy beach and pavilion, Shelp's Resort aims to be a place where "summer memories are made," fostering traditions that families will cherish for years to come.

Shelp's Resort & RV Campground is ideally situated at 11011 Doster Rd, Plainwell, MI 49080, USA. This prime location places it directly on Pine Lake in Plainwell, a charming city in Allegan County, Michigan. Plainwell itself offers a delightful blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger cities, making Shelp's Resort an accessible and appealing destination for Michiganders from across the state.

The resort's position on Pine Lake is a significant asset. Pine Lake is a 660-acre "all-sports lake," meaning it's perfect for a wide range of water activities, from boating and tubing to fishing, jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, and paddle boating. This direct lake access is a huge draw for water enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy Michigan's renowned aquatic recreation. The nearby marinas, including one directly next door, offer boat fuel, service, and pontoon rentals, ensuring that getting out on the water is convenient and hassle-free.

For those arriving by road, Plainwell is easily accessible via major state highways, making the drive relatively straightforward from various parts of Michigan. Once at the resort, the central location on Pine Lake means that local amenities are also within easy reach. Several excellent grocery stores and dining options, including local favorites like Pine Lake Grocery and Pine Lake Diner, are just blocks away. Beyond the immediate vicinity, the resort is well-positioned for exploring other West Michigan attractions, such as the Gilmore Car Museum and the Kalamazoo River, offering opportunities for cultural exploration and additional outdoor activities. This combination of lakeside immersion and convenient accessibility solidifies Shelp's Resort's appeal as a top choice for local Michigan vacations.

Shelp's Resort & RV Campground offers a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable, convenient, and fun-filled camping experience for all guests.

• RV Sites: The campground provides spacious, shaded, and grassy RV sites. Many sites are pull-through for easy access, and some offer private back-in spots directly on the lake with accompanying docks. Site prices typically include up to 6 people and 2 licensed vehicles.
• Luxury RV Vacation Rental: For those without their own RV, the resort offers a fully set-up luxury RV available for weekly rentals, providing a "home on wheels" experience.
• Full Hookups: RV sites are equipped with essential full hookups, which typically include water, sewer, and electric (often 50-amp service), ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Sandy Beach: A DNR-designated sandy beach provides a safe, boat-free area for swimming, playing, and relaxing by the lake.
• Pavilion: A large, covered pavilion is available right on the beach, complete with picnic tables. It can be rented for private functions like birthdays and reunions.
• Camp Store: An on-site historic general store offers a variety of conveniences, including pizza delivery, ice cream, subs, gas, and groceries, minimizing the need to leave the resort.
• Clean Restrooms & Showers: Communal restrooms and shower facilities for both men and women are centrally located and consistently praised for their cleanliness, accessible via a keypad lock code.
• Free Wireless Internet: The campground provides Wi-Fi coverage across the camping area via multiple antennas, allowing guests to stay connected.
• Fish Station: A dedicated fish cleaning station is available for anglers.
• Dumping Station: A convenient dumping station is provided for RV waste.
• Playground: A children's playground ensures entertainment for younger campers.
• Nightly Campfires: Three separate locations with large fire rings are available for communal campfires, perfect for s'mores and socializing.
• Lawn Games: Includes a sand volleyball court and potentially other outdoor games.
• Dock Space: Available for guests bringing their own boats or renting from nearby marinas.

Shelp's Resort & RV Campground is rich in features and highlights that make it a standout destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan.

• Prime Lakeside Location on Pine Lake: Situated directly on the 660-acre "all-sports" Pine Lake, the resort offers incredible access to boating, tubing, fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddle boating. The lake is also a series of four interconnected lakes, allowing for extensive exploration.
• Historic Charm & Family Ownership: With a history dating back to the 1800s and 75 years as a campground, Shelp's is a family-owned and operated establishment, providing a warm, welcoming, and community-focused atmosphere that values tradition and guest satisfaction.
• Exceptional Cleanliness and Friendly Staff: Consistently praised in reviews, the campground is noted for the pristine condition of its communal restrooms and the helpful, friendly demeanor of its staff, enhancing the overall guest experience.
• Diverse Site Options: Whether you prefer a shaded RV site, a long pull-through, or a private back-in site with a dock right on the lake, Shelp's offers variety to suit different camping preferences. The luxury RV rental is also a unique offering for those without their own rig.
• Comprehensive On-Site Amenities: From the well-stocked camp store with pizza and subs to the sandy beach, playground, and multiple campfire locations, guests have a wide array of conveniences and recreational opportunities without leaving the resort.
• Excellent Connectivity: Free wireless internet across the campground ensures guests can stay connected if desired, balancing the outdoor experience with modern convenience.
• Proximity to Marinas and Local Dining: The marina next door offers easy pontoon rentals and boat services, while nearby local favorites like Bill's Lakeside Grille and Pine Lake Diner provide convenient dining options.
• Activities for All Ages: With lake fun, a playground, hiking trails (as per reviews), and dedicated campfire areas, there are plenty of activities to keep kids and adults entertained, making it ideal for family vacations.

For inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about Shelp's Resort & RV Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: 11011 Doster Rd, Plainwell, MI 49080, USA

Phone: (269) 664-4789

Mobile Phone: +1 269-664-4789

It is always recommended to contact the resort directly for the most up-to-date information on site availability, seasonal operating dates (typically May 1 to October 15), specific rental rates for RV sites or the luxury RV, and any policies, such as their pet policy (pets must be leashed and cleaned up after, not permitted in public buildings or amenity areas). You can also visit their official website for a park map and more detailed descriptions of amenities and local activities.

Shelp's Resort & RV Campground is an outstanding choice for Michigan locals seeking a memorable and convenient outdoor getaway. For residents of our state, its prime location on Pine Lake, an "all-sports" lake, is a major draw, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and all forms of water recreation right from the campground. This immediate access to Michigan's beautiful waterways makes it an ideal spot for those who cherish lake life without having to travel far.

The resort's long-standing history as a family-owned and operated establishment creates a warm, inviting atmosphere where genuine hospitality shines through, as evidenced by the consistently praised friendly staff and clean facilities. This sense of community and care, combined with on-site conveniences like the camp store and immediate access to marina services, simplifies the camping experience for busy Michigan families. Whether you're looking for a seasonal site to establish a summer home base, or a weekend getaway with full hookups, Shelp's Resort provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and thoughtful amenities. It’s a place where childhood memories are crafted, and a tradition of summer fun can be easily established right here in Plainwell, making it a highly suitable and cherished destination for locals.

Shelp's Resort & RV Campground

11011 Doster Rd, Plainwell, MI 49080, USA