Fort Custer Recreation Area offers a range of cabin accommodations within 3,000 acres of natural space approximately 25 miles from Cloverdale, Michigan. The property includes three lakes with year-round fishing opportunities and over 30 miles of multi-use trails. Cabin rentals near Cloverdale typically operate from April through October with varying availability based on seasonal demand and weather conditions.
What to do
Water activities on multiple lakes: Fort Custer Recreation Area provides access to Eagle Lake and Whitford-Lawler Lake. "Endless hiking trails and two lakes where you can fish, swim, and boat," explains one visitor who adds this is "highly recommended" for those in the area.
Disc golf courses: Cold Brook County Park maintains a disc golf course alongside its cabin rentals. "Disc golf, fishing, playground for kids" are among the activities available according to one camper, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
Trail exploration: The blue hiking trail at Fort Custer winds around several lakes. "We hiked on a multi-use trail that the ranger suggested. The blue trail goes around a couple lakes and was wonderful. We did miss a sign or two and ended up turning our 4 mile trip into a 6.5 mile one," notes a camper who enjoyed the abundant rest spots along the route.
Mountain biking: Fort Custer maintains dedicated mountain bike trails separate from hiking paths. "There are quite a few mountain bike trails on the other side of the recreation area. A horse trail circles around the outside edge," mentions one visitor who explored multiple trail systems during their stay.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Fort Custer Recreation Area offers wooded sites with natural separation. "We've stayed at both sites listed. 161 you do have neighbors pretty close, but we just stayed at 51 and it is extremely secluded! We had an amazing time tent camping it was so quiet!" reports one enthusiastic camper.
Cabin options at Michawana Campground: Operating from April to October, this campground provides family-oriented cabin rentals. "Nice quiet small camp ground. Has lots for kids and families to do," notes a visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities and lake access.
Swimming opportunities: Multiple swimming options exist beyond standard beaches. At Welcome Woods Family Campground, visitors enjoy direct lake access. "Playgrounds, Lake, dump station, well stocked store, some shaded sites, clean bathrooms by the store, pit toilets throughout the campground," mentions one camper highlighting the comprehensive amenities.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution at Fort Custer creates ideal stargazing conditions. "I loved the lack of lights in the park at night making for a beautiful night sky," writes a camper who appreciated this natural feature alongside the diverse recreation options.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Quality and maintenance of restrooms differ between locations. At TriPonds Family Camp Resort, "The showers and bathrooms are nice" according to one visitor, while others note some facilities require updating.
Seasonal operation limitations: Most cabin rentals close from late October through April. Welcome Woods Family Campground operates from "May 1 - Oct 15" according to their information, requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
Site drainage issues: Some campgrounds experience flooding during wet weather. At TriPonds, one camper noted "Rain can cause some rather large puddles (which my kids immensely enjoy) but they usually dry up quickly."
Insects can be problematic: Fort Custer requires proper preparation for bugs during summer months. "Lots need mowing so lots of bugs, bring insect repellent," advises one visitor who still enjoyed their stay despite this challenge.
Tips for camping with families
Supervised water recreation: Michawana Campground provides staffed water activities for children. "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," explains one family who visited with kids.
Consider cabin rentals for first-time campers: Cabins provide a gentler introduction to camping for children. "Our granddaughter joined us and it was her first camping trip ever, the campground was a huge factor in her great time!" shares a visitor at Outdoor Adventures Kalamazoo Resort.
Look for integrated play areas: Campgrounds with centralized playgrounds allow easier supervision. At Hungry Horse Campground, "The only plus to this place is the playground right in the middle of the park," notes one visitor, making it convenient for parents to monitor children.
Book cabins early for holiday weekends: Cabin availability becomes limited during peak periods. "We stayed on their Halloween weekend and it was packed full of activities for the kids. Many people in the campground decorated their sites Halloween themed," mentions a TriPonds visitor highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer electric service without full hookups. At Fort Custer, "Sites have electrical service only. Must use the dump station," explains a camper, suggesting travelers prepare accordingly for water management.
Dump station timing considerations: During busy periods, expect delays at service points. "Since there are no water or sewer hook ups, lines at the dump/fill station can get long," advises a visitor to Fort Custer, recommending scheduling these services during off-peak times.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare leveling equipment when booking cabin-adjacent RV sites. "The campsites are a good size but those we found are not very level," notes a visitor to Outdoor Adventures Kalamazoo Resort, suggesting bringing additional leveling blocks.
