Whelan Lake Area Campground & Park

14 reviews

Custer, MI 49405, USA

Whelan Lake Area Introduce

Whelan Lake Area, nestled in the heart of Custer, MI 49405, offers a unique and secluded camping experience for nature lovers. This charming campground and park provide a pristine environment where visitors can connect with nature, explore breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Perfectly suited for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, Whelan Lake Area is a hidden gem that combines tranquility with adventure.

Located in a remote part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Whelan Lake Area is known for its beautiful lake views and open camping areas. The park features primitive campsites with fire pits, making it an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of Whelan Lake, hiking through nearby trails, or simply relaxing under the stars. However, it's important to note that this is a free camping site, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own trash bags and leave the area cleaner than they found it.

One of the standout features of Whelan Lake Area is its seclusion. While the park offers plenty of open space and opportunities for exploration, it requires a bit of effort to reach. Visitors should follow the directions carefully: take the road towards Wahlhalla north until spotting the opening for 6661, then travel straight for about two miles until they arrive at the park sign. This off-the-beaten-path location ensures a peaceful and immersive experience, but it also means that visitors must be prepared with their own supplies and be mindful of their surroundings.

Customer feedback highlights both the beauty and challenges of Whelan Lake Area. Many guests praise the remote setting and the opportunity to disconnect from daily life. One visitor described it as "a pretty cool primitive campsite" with plenty of open areas and lake access. However, some have noted that finding the exact campsites can be difficult due to limited signage and inaccurate directions on mapping services like Google Maps. It's important for visitors to follow the detailed directions carefully to avoid getting lost.

Another common theme in reviews is the need for responsible tourism. While the park is free, it lacks some of the modern conveniences found at more developed campgrounds. Visitors are urged to be respectful and leave no trace behind, as there is no regular waste collection service. One guest expressed disappointment with the amount of litter left by previous visitors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the natural beauty of the area.

Despite these challenges, Whelan Lake Area remains a popular choice for those seeking an authentic camping experience. The combination of stunning lake views, open spaces, and opportunities for outdoor adventure makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to hike, swim, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Whelan Lake Area offers a unique and memorable experience that caters to all types of campers.

For those planning to visit, it's essential to be prepared. Bring your own trash bags, as there are no waste collection services available on-site. Additionally, ensure you have a map or GPS with accurate directions to navigate the area successfully. With proper preparation and respect for the environment, visitors can enjoy a hassle-free and unforgettable trip to Whelan Lake Area.

In summary, Whelan Lake Area is more than just a campground—it's an opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature in its purest form. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, this park offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, head to Custer, MI 49405, and embark on your next outdoor adventure at Whelan Lake Area!

Remote location with stunning lake views
Primitive campsites with fire pits
Open camping areas for tents and RVs
Swimming, hiking, and nature exploration
Free camping site with no hookups
Necessity to bring own trash bags and supplies
Directions require careful attention to navigate
Emphasis on responsible tourism and leaving no trace

Location

Michigan Mason County Custer

Customer Reviews

4.0

14 reviews

Jason Duncan

Sep 26, 2021

Beautiful remote lake campground. Some sites more difficult to reach.

kenji steakster

Sep 21, 2020

If you can find it, it's a pretty cool primitive campsite. Lots of open camp areas, many with lake views, and access. Google maps doesn't tell you accurate directions. You want to take the road wahlhalla north until you see the opening for 6661 is the road address. Take that straight for about 2 miles and you will see the one sign telling you that you arrived to a park. The camp sites only have fire pits. Everything else is up to you. Including trash. Unfortunately people leave their trash all over, and it's a shame. Because this is a free site which means people don't clean up after you like a mother would. So be respectful. Leave it cleaner than you got it.

Jess Johnson

Jun 21, 2023

Perfect for people who can camp without all the extras!

kaila Prell

Jan 16, 2021

Camped here as a kid. Now, years later my family and I go here. There are fish in the lake, bluegill and perch mostly. Also it is very swimmable. The trail to it gets muddy in the spring or after rain. It can be hairy in a sedan.

Jaime Davidson

Oct 12, 2020

A bit hard to find, but I called the ranger station and they were happy to help. We found it and had a great time! It's free to camp and you can swim and fish in the lake.

Chris Johnson

May 25, 2025

Undeniably a great place to camp. As long as you like no nonsense primitive camping.