Fort Custer Recreation Area sits on rolling terrain approximately 30 minutes west of Ceresco, Michigan, and encompasses over 3,000 acres of woodland and lake environments. The recreation area maintains three lakes—Eagle Lake, Jackson Lake, and Whitford Lake—with water temperatures typically reaching the mid-70s during summer months. Modern campgrounds in this region typically experience seasonal flooding during spring thaw periods, with drier conditions from June through October.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers extensive mountain biking trails rated for various skill levels. According to Bob B., "This is where I spent my summers growing up. But I've never found another campground with such a great mix of secluded sites, but still opportunities to meet and party with fellow camper. Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat."
Disc golf course: Ionia State Recreation Area maintains an 18-hole disc golf course with concrete tee pads and metal baskets. A camper noted, "Ionia has so many great outdoor activities for almost anyone. There is a disc golf course, mountain bike trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, a beautiful no wake lake perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing."
Stargazing opportunities: When seeking glamping close to Ceresco, Michigan, consider the night sky viewing at Fort Custer Recreation Area. One reviewer stated, "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky." Sessions Lake at Ionia offers similar dark sky viewing from the shoreline.
Equestrian trails: Ionia State Recreation Area provides designated horseback riding trails separate from hiking paths. A visitor mentioned, "Take a walk through the equestrian to check out the horses." The trails wind through mixed hardwood forest and open meadow areas.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many glamping options near Ceresco feature natural vegetation between sites. At Potawatomi Rec Area, a camper reported, "A modern campsite with plumbing, showers, power, small store for firewood, even wifi and ice cream. Not the best for a wilderness experience but overall a nice place to bring people who aren't as into roughing it."
Accessibility to water recreation: Several camping areas provide direct water access. A visitor to Hidden Ridge RV Resort shared, "We had a drive-in(forward) location(#10) overlooking the small lake. There was some interstate noise but it was more of a steady hum and not an issue at all."
Seasonal programming: Many glamping locations near Ceresco run organized activities. Joel K. mentioned about Fort Custer, "We camped and rode (again) at Fort Custer. We've been here 2x before (once in a cabin and once in tents) and this has now officially become a favorite. We loved our site as it's close to the trails for riding."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe local fauna. According to Hannah about Fort Custer, "We just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping facilities near Ceresco require advance booking. A visitor to Pokagon State Park Campground noted, "There's 500+ sites, but all nicely separated and shaded. There's an inn, restaurant, cabins, boat rentals, horseback riding, bike trails, beach, toboggan run, etc."
Bug conditions: Insect activity varies seasonally with highest concentrations from May through August. One camper at Fort Custer commented, "lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent."
Water levels: Lakes in this region experience seasonal fluctuations with highest water typically in spring. A reviewer mentioned, "We hiked on a multi-use trail that the ranger suggested. The blue trail goes around a couple lakes and was wonderful."
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies throughout the region with strongest signals at major campgrounds. "The sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," noted one Fort Custer visitor regarding hookup limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Camp Michawana provides designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. According to Bailey C., "This campsite is perfect for children! The workers are the nicest people I have encountered at a campsite. They have a lake/beach for swimming, kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes to use at the lake. They also have a massive slip 'n slide, zip lining, and a rock climbing wall."
Playground access: Several glamping options feature modern playground equipment. One camper noted about Michawana, "Nice quiet small camp ground. Has lots for kids and families to do."
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities focused on local ecology. A visitor to Ionia State Recreation Area shared, "Our kids enjoyed this park every year while growing up. Hunting for mushrooms, fishing, swimming in the lake, building forts, riding bikes. Big sites! This place was the perfect get away."
Gentle hiking trails: Several glamping facilities maintain shorter, less challenging trails suitable for young hikers. "This is great campground for family's it's peaceful and for the most part a quiet campground. A short walk or bike ride to the beach of Sessions Lake or even to the peninsula to fish from dock," commented a visitor to Ionia.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Most glamping facilities near Ceresco offer partial hookups. "Spacing was generous between locations. We had a drive-in(forward) location(#10) overlooking the small lake," noted a Hidden Ridge visitor.
Site dimensions: Ionia State Recreation Area has some limitations for larger units. A camper mentioned, "The sites are all a little bit shallow especially if you have a larger travel trailer you may find it a bit tight. There is a great variety of shaded and sunny sites."
Dump station access: Fort Custer Recreation Area maintains a central dump station with potential wait times during peak periods. According to a reviewer, "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long. Sites are easy to get in and out of with RV/TT."
Seasonal availability: Many glamping sites close to Ceresco operate with reduced services during shoulder seasons. A camper shared about Hidden Ridge RV Resort, "Absolutely lovely park! Spacing was generous between locations."
