FORT CUSTER STATE PARK
Fort Custer Recreation Area comprises 3,033 acres located between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. The terrain is typical of southern Michigan farm country, with second growth forests and remnant areas of prairie. Prairie restoration is in progress with excellent results. The area features three lakes, the Kalamazoo River and an excellent trail system. Originally farmland, the area was acquired by the federal government to establish Camp Custer, an induction and military training center for the US Army during WWII. The land was deeded to the State of Michigan under President Nixon's Legacy of Parks in 1971.
The Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Details and information on how to obtain your Michigan Recreation Passport can be found by visiting the
MICHIGAN RECREATION PASSPORT web page.
Fort Custer-Group Use Area(269) 731-42002 site(s), Contact the parkGroup Use Area, Rustic Site, Vault Toilet
Fort Custer-Modern(800) 447-2757219 site(s)Electrical Service, Mini Cabin, Modern Restrooms
Fort Custer-Rustic Cabins(800) 447-27573 site(s)Vault Toilet
Access sites are available on Whitford, Lawler and Eagle lakes. No wake rules are enforced. Eagle Lake has a barrier-free dock and all launch sites have concrete ramps.
Three lakes offer fishing opportunities for anglers, with species including largemouth bass, bluegill and northern pike. Eagle Lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout. Jackson Hole lake has a universally accessible pier designed to accommodate disabled individuals. Fishing gear can be rented on-site during summer months.
Fort Custer State Park is located near Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Plainwell
Over 25 miles of multi-use trails are open to mountain biking, horseback riding, dog sledding, hiking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and hunting. Four distinct loops - Red, Green, Blue, Yellow - offer a variety of terrain and different levels of physical challenge.
Three universally accessible picnic shelters are available at Fort Custer. Two are located at Eagle Lake and one is located at Whitford-Lawler Lake. Contact the park for reservations.
Fire pits/grills available.
Over 25 miles of multi-use trails are open to mountain biking, horseback riding, dog sledding, hiking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and hunting. Four distinct loops - Red, Green, Blue, Yellow - offer a variety of terrain and different levels of physical challenge.
With more than 25 miles of mountain biking trails, this is an extremely popular sport for park visitors. Red, Green and Yellow Trail loops share use with equestrian riders and hikers. Trails can be accessed from both Eagle Lake and Whitford Lake parking areas, trail head and through the campground.
Over 25 miles of multi-use trails are open to mountain biking, horseback riding, dog sledding, hiking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and hunting. Four distinct loops - Red, Green, Blue, Yellow - offer a variety of terrain and different levels of physical challenge.
Fort Custer-Multi-Purpose Trails Trail Length: 25.00 (Miles)Cross Country Ski, Dog Sledding, Equestrian, Hiking, Mountain Biking
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species, including waterfowl and songbirds. The park's diverse habitats attract a wide range of birds throughout the year. There are three lakes within its boundaries that serve as ideal birding spots. Bird enthusiasts may also explore several trails for different viewing opportunities.
Special events are planned each winter. Contact the park for dates and times of upcoming events.
Campgrounds
Enjoy Southeast Michigan's Best Family Camping experience at our clean, quiet, friendly campground. Jumping Pillow, WiFi, Paddle Boats, Minigolf, Swimming, Bicycling and more
74.9 miles from park*
This is the place I take my kids,we go swimming at the beach,take long walks on the hiking trails and fish all the lakes. There are nice pavilions for picnicking with grills. and a wonderful camp ground. When I ask the kids where they want to go, this is it 
We have only visited the beach so that is all my review is about. The water was preaty clean and warm. Not to much sea weed. The sandy area could have been better lots of rock and the sand was hard but once wet my kids had fun. pleanty to play with and build sand castles. the grassy area was preaty clean as well. very little bird poop. I hate going to parks where there is poop everywhere. There is not to much shady areas so you will need to bring your own. the bathrooms are well keep and clean. Over all I really like this beach and I will come back for sure.
The beach and surrounding area were beautiful even though we were there after Labor Day. Sites were good sized and lots of choices. Bathrooms and showers were clean
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