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SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington

Ski-in/ski-out access for fun in the snow

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Photo gallery for SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington

Outdoor dining
Smart TV, DVD player, books, video library
Dining
Exterior
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, bed sheets

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6900 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Custer, MI
  • Place, Huron-Manistee National Forest
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Ludington Waterfront Park
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Place, S.S. Badger: Lake Michigan Carferry
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Airport, Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
    ‪50 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Custer

This cottage places you next to Huron-Manistee National Forest and within 2 miles (3 km) of Pere Marquette River. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a sofa bed.
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What's nearby

  • Huron-Manistee National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Ludington Waterfront Park - 25 min drive - 17.9 miles
  • S.S. Badger: Lake Michigan Carferry - 25 min drive - 18.2 miles
  • Ludington State Park - 31 min drive - 23.3 miles
  • Silver Lake Sand Dunes Area Chamber of Commerce - 42 min drive - 40.4 miles

Getting around

  • Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Rendezvous - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪North Country Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Charlie's Bar - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Emerson Lake Inn - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Brenda's Burgers - ‬9 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington

Historic cottage, former Walhalla train depot. Very clean and recently renovated. In a shady setting within 2 miles of the Pere Marquette River (Branch, Walhalla, IndianBridge and Custer bridge access), 1000s of acres of National Forest, and 12 miles from Lake Michigan/Ludington. Plenty of space to park your boat, hang a hammock, yard space for kids to play.

Depot Cottage welcomes you. Great location for HUNTERS FISHERMAN and Canoeing/Kayakers !Enjoy the comforts of home at this 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath home located in the Huron-Manistee National forest.

This 2 bedrooms and 1 bath single family lodging located on 10 acres. It has a great circle driveway perfect for your truck, boat, or trailer. A nice patio sits off the kitchen. A peaceful location where you can sit & drink your morning coffee .
It includes 2 bedrooms. (Queen bed in bedroom in one and full bed in the other bedroom) The living room has a sleeper sofa.
Inside you will find a nice living room, reading nook & kitchen. A smart TV in the living room will allow you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot to access YouTube, Hulu, or login to your Netflix etc. NO Internet. Plenty of table space with both a kitchen table and another table in an additional room. Feel free to use the cooking utensils & other cooking supplies to cook your catch.
Did you forget something? Dollar General is just a 2 miles from your door. Need gas or quick supplies Pioneer Party and Gas station is just a mile away. Thirsty or hungry ? The Rendezvous Grille and Tavern is just a mile away & Cardinal Restaurant & Branch Grocery's Pizza is just down the road.
Depot Cottage is on US10, which is the main highway in the area. Ludington is located approx. 12 miles west & Baldwin about 15 miles east. This home is just minutes from many great fishing lakes & rivers. The Pere Marquette public river access for Fishing, Kayaking & Canoeing is just down the road. Many wonderful golf courses in the area.
Gas Stations, Stores, Restaurants, & Bars within a short distance from the cottage.
Thank you for considering staying at our cottage.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a sofa bed, and a coffee maker.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Ski

  • Ski-in/ski-out access

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Single level property
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • On a lake
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Ski-in/ski-out access
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 900 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Return the keys
Please wash dishes.
Leave key on the kitchen table.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 3 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do close to this cottage?

This cottage is located in Custer, just steps from Huron-Manistee National Forest. Pere Marquette River is also within a driving distance of 1.5 mi.

Is there parking available at this cottage?

No, there isn't parking available at the cottage.

Is this cottage next to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

Is SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cottage include a kitchen and a smart TV along with ski-in/out access.

Are there hot tubs at SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this cottage.

Does this cottage include breakfast service?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Does this cottage have connecting rooms?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker), which is about 22.8 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington?

Yes, every accommodation at SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington comes with a deck.

Reviews

SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 67 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 67 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 67 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 67 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

Jarrett W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Had a great time but someone left salmon carcasses in the in the big ditch they started to stink
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jerry M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome little place.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

chris S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brittney G.

Liked: Cleanliness
The property is very nice and clean. The kitchen had everything we needed to prepare breakfast for the family. The property is very quiet and peaceful on a nice strip of nature. The host was also very responsive!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Owen C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very pretty house, very nice kitchen and bedrooms no complaints. Was nice and quiet good vibes very homey felt like a home away from home
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dean D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect. Exactly as advertised and was a wonderful stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nan M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved the central location for the places we wanted to visit. Felt secluded
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristy C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location, cute place

Paul's place had everything we needed--comfortable beds, lots of kitchen supplies, and even a very friendly cat. Great location close to the Pere Marquette River, Ludington State Park, and a day trip away from Sleeping Bear Dunes. We had a great time here, and the boys even caught several fish in the river. Thanks for the tips on where to fish!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Candace L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Moms getaway

Nice small place, quiet but not too far from downtown ludington or beach
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Chris R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Could use a few changes

Adorable cottage and beautiful property.We are older and do not have any subscriptions to Hulu or other streaming (things) so we weren't able to watch any TV. We did watch a cpl movies and Paul(the host) was trying to get an antenna hooked up so we could watch the news but that didn't happen while we were there. Hopefully for the next visitors.We didn't have any problems but they might want to mention the cat in the description. Our dog doesn't like cats. I'm glad we saw him before he did.They could really use a light above the kitchen sink. And maybe wash the outside of the windows and clean out the windowsills.I'm not trying to be a nit picker, just a few things I noticed.I absolutely loved the barn and old house there. I love to imagine what it was like when it was new.If they did these few things i would highly recommend it.Chris and Terry B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful hidden gem

Our family loved this place. Very clean and had everything dishes games 2 bedrooms etc. loved it
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic Cabin

We stayed here the weekend of a large event at the fairgrounds. Plenty of room for Trailers. We had two trucks with two car trailers! Was nice to have a quiet place to come back to after a few busy days!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hunting

Came up to Custer to do a little deer hunting and spend some family time. The cabin was adorable and had everything we needed to spend a quiet little weekend away. The host was very helpful too in locating spots to set up. We will definitely be back
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

NIKKI S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cabin in the woods

Peacefull cabin, close to the trails, rivers, and the Nation Forest for the outdoors people. Not to far from Ludington where you can take a stole down town or visit Lake Michigan. Cute patio as well for a fire, and smores. It was a great time full of memories.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jacob K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing

Location is amazing and the cabin is so nice and cozy....prime location for all river anglers!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christina B., Peru, IN

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect escape

We love the quiet and abundance of wildlife that show up at this cabin. It's close to things we love to do and a short trip to Ludington.
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

James B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fishing Trip

N/a
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim D.

Liked: Cleanliness

P.R. Fishing trip

We were meet by the son of the owner and he couldn’t have been nicer and more welcoming. Very clean and cozy
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Cpt_slap_a_hoe_7

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect fishing cabin

Paul made it easy for us to stay here overnight so we could be up early to get fishing!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Carol M.

Fishing

The cabin was nice, but it was very hot and it didn’t have air.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

John, Dora

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cabin was as advertised, clean, quiet, easy to access. Host was available pretty much anytime. Only surprises were the available appliances we didn't expect, i.e. Keurig. We have already booked the cabin for next year.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

DEANNA H., Allen Park, Michigan

Liked: Cleanliness

The Perfect Mini Vacay!

The hospitality was amazing! Paul had a Happy Birthday Vanilla Cake, Candles, Chocolate Ice Cream, Card and even bought my son a gift - Luer for Fishing! The cottage sits behind the owners home on lots of acreage of trees. Plenty of shade to keep cool! There’s no A/C but plenty of fans, it wasn’t hot at all. I loved this because as a single mom it made me feel safer. We even were able to bring our 2 rescue dogs! The cottage is roomy, clean and has everything you need. No WIFI but plenty of DVDS, some games, puzzle and books. They Even coffee, creamer and sugar! The beds were extremely comfy! We had some great sleep! Also anything and everything you need is about 14 mins away. Bowling, Movies, Restaurants, Meijer, Walmart, ALDIs, Hobby Lobby, any fast food you’d like. 3 dog friendly beaches about 20 mins or so away. Fishing close by about the same distance. Oh! I can’t forget my son wanted me to tell you about Rocky, the friendliest outdoor cat, he was over the moon getting to meet and wished his cat was more like Rockey. Rocky jumped in my son’s lap and embellished in all the loving. What more could we ask for!? Maybe some extra days since we only spent the weekend! We absolutely love it here and look forward to coming back. Thank You Again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Renee P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend in Ludington

Cabin was perfect for us. It was clean and the beds were comfortable. Hosts were great! My friend left her phone charger and they sent it to her without even being asked.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Jeff F., Midland, MI

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice little cabin

We enjoyed our stay. Nice quiet little cabin not to far from ludington.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

6/10 Okay

Courtney C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Not what we expected but worked out.

The listing does not indicate there is another house on the property with people living in it. The listing indicates there is a circle drive but the power line is low and prevented us from using it with our trailer. The oven had a bad smell. Chose not to use. Over all the stay was enjoyable we just didn’t expect to run into these obstacles.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024