See all properties
Entire home

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

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and patio

Choose dates to view prices

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

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior
Dining
Property grounds
Interior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6900 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Custer, MI
  • Place, Pere Marquette River
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Dockery Lake
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, West Michigan Fairgrounds
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Airport, Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker)
    ‪44 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.
View more Cottages in CusterOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Pere Marquette River - 5 min drive - 4.3 miles
  • Dockery Lake - 14 min drive - 10.3 miles
  • Amber Elk Ranch - 18 min drive - 13.2 miles
  • West Michigan Fairgrounds - 18 min drive - 15.5 miles
  • Ludington Waterfront Park - 22 min drive - 17.9 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪The Rendezvous - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪North Country Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Fin's Beach Club - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Charlie's Bar - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Country Diner - ‬3 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.

Similar properties

Dining
Three bedroom one bath home and 3 1/2 wooded acres
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Toys/Games
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, 20 reviews
Three bedroom one bath home and 3 1/2 wooded acres

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

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
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing 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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at SPORTSMAN/COUPLES RETREAT. Close to Lakes, Rivers, & Beautiful Ludington?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cottage include a kitchen and a smart TV along with a garden.

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.

Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this cottage.

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.

Are there rooms with balconies 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.

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

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 59 out of 73 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 73 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 73 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 73 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 73 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Joe M.

Liked: Cleanliness
"This cabin was exactly as advertised and provided a perfect, hassle-free getaway. It was exceptionally clean, quiet, and offered plenty of room for a two-bedroom layout. The location is unbeatable for anyone looking to hunt or fish, and it represents a truly great value for the area. The owner was incredibly quick to respond to any questions, making the entire process seamless. Highly recommended!"
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joseph O.

Liked: Cleanliness
We appreciated that everything was so clean. This is a great location if you are visiting the Ludington area. Would highly recommend this rental to anyone. Thanks
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location to stay if your looking for quick access to tons of public land hunting and river access.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Claude F.

Liked: Cleanliness
We enjoyed our stay in this calm relaxing place with our dog Kiba. The cottage is as described.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

LaDonna S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Kitchen space was good for 2 people. Comfortable living room. Would have been nice if TV had an antenna since there is no wifi. Beds were difficult to get into because they are not accessible from both sides, but queen bed was comfortable. Outdoor space was spacious, great for pets. No outdoor covered space in the event of rain. Be careful of parking spot, it's under walnut trees. If looking for a place to stay out of town, this is it. Advertised as an old depot, would have liked to see pictures of original structure.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacob K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Property was amazing just like it is every time we come up....clean nice and cozy and in a great location to fish the beautiful pere Marquette River or just relax and unwind in Ludington just down the road.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

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

Laurie, Hemlock

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Pet friendly, very clean, very comfortable
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