Glamping accommodations near Custer, Michigan offer campers diverse options between the coastal towns of Ludington and Pentwater. The area features sandy beaches, dune landscapes, and hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 580 to 650 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cooling lake breezes, while spring and fall camping seasons bring more moderate 60-70°F days with cooler evenings.
What to do
Beach access at Bass Lake: Whispering Surf Campground provides a unique two-lake experience with private beach access on Bass Lake plus nearby Lake Michigan beaches. "We have been camping at Whispering Surf since May. It is located on Bass Lake, with a nice sandy beach and good fishing, and only a 10 minute walk to Lake Michigan's sandy beaches," notes one visitor who appreciated the water access options.
Hiking trails exploration: Ludington State Park offers extensive trail networks through diverse landscapes. "Miles and miles of hiking trails, dunes, and beaches. We stayed for 9 days and still hadn't done all of the exploring we wanted to do," writes one enthusiastic camper who found plenty to explore on foot.
Kayaking and water activities: Lake Michigan Recreation Area provides excellent water recreation opportunities. "We loved the trails as the campground is right next to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. The beach is clean and the swimming is amazing!" explains a visitor who enjoyed the combination of hiking and water activities.
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Hill & Hollow Campground offers generous camping areas that visitors consistently praise. "Campsites are well maintained. Campsites don't have much privacy, but we were surrounded by family so it worked out fine for us. Staff is very accommodating and friendly," reports a camper who found the layout ideal for group gatherings.
Cleanliness and maintenance: Kibby Creek Campground receives high marks for upkeep. "I witnessed a crew cleaning a vacated camp site before the camper got out of the gate, time and time again," notes a reviewer who appreciated the attention to cleanliness throughout the grounds.
Easy town access: Mears State Park Campground provides convenient access to Pentwater. "Easy walk into town to shops and restaurants. Beautiful small state park campground. Very well maintained, clean facilities, beautiful beach," writes a visitor who valued being able to access amenities without driving.
What you should know
Site crowding considerations: Orchard Beach State Park can get quite packed during peak season. "Unfortunately, the sites are as compact and close together as possible. I usually enjoy the aroma of a campfire, but in the evening if all the sites are full, a smogtacular smoke cloud hovers over this campground," cautions a reviewer who found the density challenging.
Reservation requirements: Ludington State Park fills up quickly, especially during summer. "Make sure to book a site near the dunes. This place is perfect and books up quickly," advises a camper who learned to plan ahead for prime locations.
Water level variations: Several Lake Michigan campgrounds experience beach access changes. "Due to high waters the past few years there is no beach. This is still a family favorite and perfect if you want to go into Manistee," reports a visitor to Orchard Beach, highlighting how water levels affect amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Cartier Park Campground offers sites near play areas. "Owner went above and beyond to put us in a site that would work for our RV and kids. we stayed close to the playscape, which ended up being awesome for our kids," shares a family camper who appreciated the thoughtful placement.
Activity variety: Hill & Hollow provides multiple recreation options. "There are two basketball courts (half courts), a volleyball court, shuffle board, mini golf, a pool, a train ride for kids, a private fishing pond, playgrounds, sand boxes, and various other planned activities," details a visitor impressed by the range of family-friendly amenities.
Sand awareness: Mears State Park has primarily sandy sites. "However, there is no grass and is pretty much all sand. As long as that doesn't bother you, you will have a great time camping here," advises a camper who recommends preparing for sandy conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Whispering Surf Campground can accommodate larger rigs with assistance. "Owners are great. They escorted us in as it was a little tight with our 40 foot 5th wheel," notes an RVer who appreciated the guidance navigating to their site.
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the area require adjustment. "Our site needed leveling but was not bad," mentions an RVer at Kibby Creek, suggesting bringing leveling blocks when glamping near Custer in an RV.
Paved options: Lake Michigan Recreation Area offers varied site surfaces. "Awesome beach and/or forest locations for camping! Spots near the parking are but also some spots you can hike to," advises a camper who found the campground's diverse layout accommodating for different camping styles and equipment needs.
