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Established Camping

Whelan Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Whelan Lake Campground near Custer, MI, is surrounded by forested terrain and offers access to Whelan Lake. The area experiences temperatures ranging from the 20s in winter to the 80s in summer. Nearby attractions include Ludington State Park and the shores of Lake Michigan, providing opportunities for hiking and water activities.

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Location

Whelan Lake Campground is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Directions

_ From Baldwin - _ Travel west on 56th St. for 13.5 miles.  Turn right and travel north on Walhalla Rd. for 1.25 miles. Turn right and travel west on FR 6661 for 2.25 miles. The campground is located on the left side of the road.

Coordinates

43.91048266 N
86.15748828 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

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    Some Coverage
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    Some Coverage

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

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Reviews

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 14, 2023

I mean, it was free..

I was able to snag the last established spot before the ascent up to the clear cut. The spot was big and beautiful overlooking the river valley. Acces to the river from the site down a 70 degree descent, so not ideal for small kids or old folk. Myself and the hound were able to wade across the river in late spring but it was damned cold. It was a nice spot to wash up. There was ALOT of ORV traffic at all hours and locals/campers harvesting wood that had been clear cut previously.

Site6ish
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Whelan Lake Campground by Neil , July 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Whelan Lake Campground by Neil , July 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Whelan Lake Campground by Neil , July 14, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2021

Quiet and peaceful

Got there fairly easy using gps. A lot of dirt and gravel roads. Overall peaceful experience although, can hear campers from other sites. Jerks left their trash hung up from a tree at one site but other than that it was pretty clean.

Sitefirst site
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Whelan Lake Campground by Ginie S., July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Whelan Lake Campground by Ginie S., July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Whelan Lake Campground by Ginie S., July 11, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Whelan Lake Campground part of the Michigan State Park system?

Whelan Lake Campground appears to be a rustic camping area rather than an official Michigan State Park. The campground has established camping spots but with minimal development, suggesting it may be part of the state forest system or a county-managed recreation area. For definitive information about the campground's management, contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources or check their official website.

Where is Whelan Lake Campground located in Michigan?

Whelan Lake Campground is located in Michigan's forest area, accessible via dirt and gravel roads. The campground is situated in a scenic setting overlooking a river valley. GPS can be used to find the location, though you should be prepared for unpaved roads during the approach. The campground offers natural beauty with its positioning near water and forested surroundings.

Is Whelan Lake Campground a free camping area?

Information about specific fees for Whelan Lake Campground is limited. Given its rustic nature and minimal amenities, it may be a low-cost or free camping option. However, even dispersed camping areas often require recreation passes or permits. Contact the managing agency (likely the Michigan DNR) before your trip to confirm current fee requirements and payment methods.

What amenities and facilities are available at Whelan Lake Campground?

Whelan Lake Campground offers basic, rustic camping with minimal amenities. The campground features established campsites including some with scenic views overlooking the river valley. There's access to the river, though the descent is steep (approximately 70 degrees) and may be challenging for children or older visitors. The campground generally maintains clean conditions, though campers should be prepared to pack out their trash. No information suggests the presence of running water, flush toilets, or electrical hookups, so plan accordingly for a primitive camping experience.