The county contains 611 square miles and is the 45th largest in the state. The county seat is in Paw Paw, where one of the area's fine wineries is located. About half of the county's land is in farms and is included in the state's fruit and truck belt. Most of the agricultural receipts are from crops, including apples, blueberries, tart cherries, grapes, asparagus, green beans, and soybeans.
Food processing is the primary manufacturing activity.
Additionally, proximity to the auto industry has stimulated plastic injection and metal fabrication businesses. An abundance of outdoor activities are available, as are wine tasting tours. South Haven, a city of 5,700 located on Lake Michigan, is noted for its festivals and tourist attractions. The mission of the MSU Extension Economic Development Program is to enhance human and economic well-being and quality of life in Van Buren County by providing educational and technical assistance to businesses, government, economic and community organizations. Financial assistance and available labor provides opportunity for lateral growth and expansion of services and products.