Fort Custer Recreation Area in Augusta spans over 3,000 acres with several lakes and miles of trails. The campground sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with sandy soil typical of southwest Michigan's glacial terrain. This location offers camping options within a 20-mile radius of Ceresco, Michigan, with seasonal availability varying by campground.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Several lakes at Fort Custer Recreation Area provide fishing access. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," notes Bob B. The recreation area includes Eagle Lake and Jackson Lake with accessible fishing docks.
**Mountain biking: The area features extensive trail systems designed for various skill levels. "We've been here 2x before and this has now officially become a favorite," shares Joel K., who visits specifically for mountain biking. The recreation area maintains over 20 miles of dedicated biking trails.
**Kayaking: Smaller lakes provide calm waters ideal for paddling. At Cold Brook County Park, "Small county park. Lots of lake for small boating, kayaking. Fishing pier to fish off," explains Nellie. The fishing piers double as launch points for small watercraft.
What campers like
**Secluded sites: Campers appreciate natural separation between sites. "We just stayed at site 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping - it was so quiet," reports Hannah at Fort Custer Recreation Area. Site selection makes significant difference in privacy levels.
**Concrete pads: Camp Turkeyville RV Resort offers upgraded site features. "Spacious sites. Concrete patio at each site. Daily trash pickup at campsite," says David D. These amenities make pet management more convenient for campers.
**Multiple lakes: Travel Trailer Club of The Midwest provides access to water recreation. "This is a secluded campground near Bellevue. Not a lot of trees or space between campsites. There is electric and water hookup available," explains Lydia T. The location offers several small lakes throughout the property.
What you should know
**Limited hookups: Some campgrounds offer electric service only. At Fort Custer, "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," advises VB S. Plan accordingly for water needs and waste management.
**Insect preparedness: Seasonal conditions affect bug populations. "Lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent," Cathy Y. recommends at Fort Custer Recreation Area. Early summer typically brings higher insect activity.
**Shade variations: Site selection impacts sun exposure. Art S. notes about Fort Custer, "It was overcast upon arrival only to have the sun shine down the next day. We soon found out that there was enough clearing in the treetops to give our camp full sun for most of the day." Request shaded sites when making reservations if traveling during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
**Playground access: Deep Lake Rustic Campground offers recreational amenities. "Ranger patrols a lot, which is nice if you need them. Lots were a good size. Bathrooms were pretty clean too," reports Melissa M. The campground includes basic facilities suitable for families.
**Pet-friendly trails: Hiking paths accommodate pets with proper restraints. Mary Z. explains that Deep Lake offers "access to miles of hiking and biking trails. This is a great campground if you don't mind 'roughing it'." Most trails in the area allow leashed pets.
**Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas. At Cold Brook County Park, campers enjoy a "swimming beach with sand. Nice country setting yet close enough to towns if you need anything," according to Nellie. Beach facilities typically include changing areas and restrooms.
Tips from RVers
**Site length considerations: Pokagon State Park Campground requires careful planning. "Sites are shorter and sometimes uneven. Bike trail, hiking trails, store, beach, inn, nature center," notes J C. Measure your rig before booking to ensure adequate space.
**Dump station timing: Plan for potential waiting periods at shared facilities. Fort Custer camper Bob B. advises, "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long." Schedule arrival and departure outside peak morning hours to minimize wait times.
**Electric service: Camp Turkeyville provides full hookups for convenient pet friendly camping near Ceresco, Michigan. "Very quiet and family friendly," adds David D., making it suitable for RVers who prefer more amenities while traveling with pets.
