Whispering Surf Campground at Bass Lake
Pentwater, Michigan
37 RV Sites, 1 Cabin, 6 Tent Sites, 2 Cottages
Whispering Surf Campground at Bass Lake in Pentwater, MI, offers 37 full-hookup RV sites, 3 cabin and cottage rentals, and 6 tent sites, with 20, 30, and 50-amp service and room for rigs up to 44 feet.
Sites come in three types — full-hookup back-ins, full-hookup pull-thrus, and water-and-electric back-ins — each with a fire pit, picnic table, and site-delivered WiFi. Full-hookup sites carry water, sewer, and electric. A bathhouse with showers, a general store, firewood, a dump station, and a community fire pit cover the essentials. Dogs are welcome — non-aggressive breeds, up to two per site — and there's a dog park and a pet washing station on the grounds.
Bass Lake frontage drives the recreation: boat docks and boat and kayak rentals for fishing, paddling, boating, and swimming, plus a recreation center, playground, walking trails, and horseshoes. The dark sky over the lake makes for good stargazing.
Pentwater sits in Oceana County, with Bass Lake at the campground's edge and Lake Michigan's beaches and a state park a short drive west.
Rates for sites, cabins, and tent spots are on the booking page. Michigan's summer season is short and this stretch of shoreline books early.
from $47/night
37 RV Sites, 1 Cabin, 6 Tent Sites, 2 Cottages
Amenities & Activities
- Bathrooms
- Beach
- Beach Nearby
- Boat Docks
- Boat Rentals
- Boating
- Cabins
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Community Fire Pit
- Dog Park
- Dump Station
- Firewood
- Fishing
- Full Hookup
- General Store
- Horseshoes
Select your site to book online
Location
Whispering Surf Campground at Bass Lake, 7070 S Lakeshore Dr, Pentwater, MI 49449, USA
Things to know
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 12:00 PM
Need to know
COVID-19 Policy
- Please follow all federal, state, and local health guidelines.
General FAQs
Do you allow dogs in the campground?
- We allow all non-aggressive dogs – up to 2 dogs per site.
- We have clean up stations around the park and a Bark Park as well.
- All dogs and owners must follow our pet policy.
Do you allow dogs on your beach?
- Dogs are not allowed on our private beach or on the nearest Lake Michigan beaches.
- There are dog friendly beaches at the Summit Township Park, Mears State Park, and at Buttersville Park.
Do you allow dogs in your cabins?
- We do not allow dogs in any of the buildings in the campground, including our cabins.
Can we tie our boat to the campground dock at Bass Lake?
- The dock is available for campground guests on a first come – first served basis.
- Due to the type of dock, only aluminum boats less than 16’ may use the dock.
- No pontoons or fiberglass boats – the weight will push our dock sideways.
Can we rent boats to use on Bass Lake?
- Canoes and kayaks are available for rental on a first come – first served basis in 2-, 4-, or 8-hour increments.
- Our neighbors, Ferwerda’s Bass Lake Resort, rent motor boats and pontoons.
Do you have any lake view campsites?
- Because we are surrounded by private land, we do not have any sites with a lake view.
Do you have seasonal sites?
- We do have seasonal sites – they are very popular and usually fully booked.
- To be added to the waitlist, you must camp at least 2 nights in our campground and speak to the owners.
- Seasonal sites are offered based on RV size and location, and not necessarily in the order you are added to the list.
Do you charge a reservation fee?
- Yes. All reservations include a small reservation fee that helps cover secure payment processing and administrative support.
- The amount depends on how you book:
- Online Booking Fee: 3% — our lowest-cost option and available 24/7.
- Assisted Reservation Fee (Phone or Office): 5% — this covers the additional staff time needed to look up availability, answer questions, and complete your booking manually.
- Reservation fees are applied at the time of booking, are based on the value of your reservation, and are non-refundable.
- Most guests choose to book online for convenience and the lowest fee.
Do you have activities for children?
- We offer a few family activities throughout the summer, including a Fishing Derby, Christmas in July, and Halloween Fun weekend.
- See our events page for a complete list.
- We also have a playground, games in the Lodge, and mini-golf.
- Note: Children under 13 must be with a parent in the Lodge.
- Most of our guests spend the day at one of our area beaches or downtown Pentwater or Ludington, then come back for dinner and a campfire.
Can I park a boat trailer at my campsite?
- No, we offer overflow parking by our Bark Park for boat trailers.
Can I have a tent on my RV site?
- You may have (1) tent no larger than 8’ x 6’ on most RV sites.
- Please confirm this at the time of your reservation.
Are there bike paths or hiking trails at your campground?
- Many guests walk or bike to the Lake Michigan beaches, but there are no designated hiking or biking trails on our property or in the surrounding area.
Are campfires allowed at the campsites?
- Each campsite comes with a campfire ring, and campfires are allowed as long as they are attended at all times and the weather conditions are favorable.
- We are surrounded by old-growth trees and want to make sure they are around to enjoy for years to come.
- Please check at the Camp Store for the current fire status.
RV Campsites FAQs
What types of RV sites do you offer?
- We offer a mix of full-hookup sites (water, electric, sewer) and water & electric-only sites suitable for travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, pop-ups, and truck campers.
What is included in the campsite rate?
- Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, access to campground amenities (bathhouse, WiFi, camp store, dog area), and convenient access to Bass Lake Beach.
- Utility hookups are included based on the site type.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
- RV check-in typically begins in the afternoon and check-out is around midday.
- Please refer to your confirmation email or the front office for the current seasonal schedule and any early/late options.
Are pets allowed at RV sites?
- Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at RV sites.
- Please keep pets leashed, clean up after them, and follow posted pet policies.
- Limits and small additional fees may apply for multiple pets.
Do you accommodate large rigs?
- Many sites are suitable for larger RVs and fifth wheels.
- If you have a big rig or slide-outs, let us know your length when booking so we can place you in an appropriately sized site with easy access.
Can I book a specific site?
- You can request preferred areas or site features when reserving.
- We will honor site type and RV length for all reservations.
- Exact site numbers can be guaranteed by paying a small Lock Site Fee at time of booking.
Is there a cancellation policy?
- Yes. Cancellation windows and fees can vary by season and length of stay.
- Please review the policy during checkout or contact the office for the latest details before you finalize your reservation.
Are campfires allowed at RV sites?
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings unless a local burn restriction is in effect.
- Please never leave fires unattended and fully extinguish them before leaving the site or turning in for the night.
Do you have quiet hours?
- Yes, quiet hours help everyone enjoy a restful stay.
- Please keep music and generator use low during evening and early morning hours, and follow posted campground guidelines.
How close are the RV sites to Bass Lake Beach?
- RV sites are a short walk from Bass Lake Beach along campground paths through the woods, making it easy to enjoy the shoreline throughout your stay.
Tent Sites FAQs
What types of tent sites are available?
- We offer both electric tent sites with 20-amp hookups and rustic tent sites with nearby water access, ideal for campers who want a classic outdoor experience surrounded by nature.
Where can I find current rates for tent campsites?
- Current seasonal rates and availability are listed on our Reservations page.
- You can check live pricing, site details, and minimum stay requirements before booking.
Are pets allowed at the tent campsites?
- Yes, dogs are welcome at our tent campsites.
- Please follow campground pet guidelines, including leash requirements and designated pet areas, to ensure a pleasant stay for everyone.
What amenities are included with a tent campsite?
- Each tent site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and access to campground amenities like restrooms, showers, WiFi, the camp store, and walking paths to Bass Lake Beach.
How close are the tent sites to the beach and facilities?
- Tent sites are nestled among shaded pines and are just a short walk from Bass Lake Beach, the bathhouse, and the camp store for easy access to essentials and lakefront views.
Can I reserve a specific tent site?
- You can request a preferred area or site when booking through our reservation system.
- Exact site numbers can be guaranteed by paying a small Lock Site Fee at time of booking.
What is the cancellation policy for tent campsite reservations?
- Our campground’s standard cancellation policy applies to tent sites.
- You can view full details and terms on the Campground Information page or during the reservation process.
Are campfires allowed at the tent sites?
- Yes, campfires are permitted in provided fire rings unless a local burn ban is in effect.
- Please keep fires small, supervised, and fully extinguished before leaving your site.
Do you offer gear or equipment rentals for tent campers?
- While we don’t provide camping gear rentals, the campground store offers essentials like firewood, ice, snacks, and small camping items.
- Kayak and canoe rentals are also available nearby.
Is WiFi or cell service available at the tent campsites?
- Yes, free WiFi is available throughout most of the campground, including the tenting area.
- Cell signal strength may vary by provider and location within the grounds.
Dorothy Cottage FAQs
What is the minimum stay required for the Dorothy Cottage?
- A minimum stay is required during peak season.
- Please visit the reservations page to view current booking requirements and available dates.
What are the check-in and check-out times for the cottage?
- Check-in for the Dorothy Cottage is at 4:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM.
- Early check-in or late check-out may be available depending on occupancy—please ask when reserving.
Are pets or smoking allowed in the Dorothy Cottage?
- No. The cottage is a pet-free and smoke-free rental to help maintain a clean, comfortable environment for all guests.
What should I bring for my stay?
- Guests should bring their own bedding, pillows, blankets, and towels.
- The cottage includes a kitchenette with basic appliances and cookware for your convenience.
How many bedrooms and bathrooms are included?
- The Dorothy Cottage features three bedrooms and one full bathroom, providing plenty of space for families or small groups.
Where can I find current rates and availability?
- All current rates and seasonal availability can be found on the Reservations page.
What is the cancellation policy?
- Cancellation policies vary by season and booking method.
- Please review the details during checkout or contact the campground for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What is the maximum occupancy for the cottage?
- The Dorothy Cottage comfortably accommodates families or small groups.
- Please check occupancy limits during your reservation to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.
Can I park an RV or tent near the cottage?
- No, the cottage area is reserved for cottage guests only.
- RVs and tents require separate campsite reservations through the campground.
How close is the cottage to the beach and other amenities?
- The Dorothy Cottage is just a short walk from Bass Lake Beach, the camp store, and other campground amenities, making it easy to enjoy both comfort and convenience during your stay.
Davis Cottage FAQs
How many bedrooms and what setup does the Davis Cottage have?
- The Davis Cottage features two bedrooms and one full bathroom, with a kitchenette included for your convenience.
Where can I find current rates and availability for the Davis Cottage?
- Please check our Reservations page for the latest nightly rates, minimum stay requirements, and availability for the Davis Cottage.
What are the check-in and check-out times for the Davis Cottage?
- Check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM.
- You can inquire about early arrival or late departure when you book.
Are pets or smoking allowed in the Davis Cottage?
- No. The Davis Cottage is a pet-free and smoke-free rental to help maintain comfort and cleanliness for all guests.
What should I bring when staying at the Davis Cottage?
- Guests should bring their own bedding, pillows, blankets, towels and toiletries.
- The cottage includes the essentials like a kitchenette, cookware, and outdoor fire ring.
Can I reserve a specific cottage location or view when booking?
- Yes, you may request preferred cottage placement or view during reservation.
- While we will do our best to honor preferences, specific locations are not guaranteed and depend on availability.
What is the cancellation policy for cottage rentals?
- Cancellations made at least 30 days before arrival qualify for a refund (minus a cancellation fee).
- Cancellations 14 days or less before arrival receive 50% of the deposit back.
- No refunds for cancellations under 14 days or early departures.
Are the facilities and amenities nearby the Davis Cottage?
- Yes! The Davis Cottage is located within the campground grounds with easy access to Bass Lake Beach, the camp store, bathhouse, and other shared amenities.
What is the maximum occupancy of the Davis Cottage?
- The cottage is designed for up to four guests.
- Please confirm occupancy limits and any additional guest fees at the time of booking.
Is there an outdoor space included with the Davis Cottage?
- Yes, the cottage includes an outdoor fire ring, a patio area with seating, and a gas grill for your use during your stay.
Mayor Cabin FAQs
What is included in the Mayor Cabin – Rustic?
- The cabin features twin bunk beds, a breakfast bar, a newly added small refrigerator, a ceiling fan, a large deck with picnic table, and a gas grill.
- Guests bring their own bedding, pillows, blankets, or sleeping bags.
Where can I find current rates and availability for the Mayor Cabin?
- Please check the Reservations page.
What is the minimum stay and policy for the Mayor Cabin?
- The Mayor Cabin has a 2-night minimum stay requirement and follows the campground’s standard cancellation policy.
- More details are available during booking.
Are pets or smoking allowed in the Mayor Cabin?
- No pets and no smoking are allowed in the cabin to ensure a comfortable and clean stay for all guests.
Does the Mayor Cabin include a bathroom?
- The cabin is rustic and does not include its own private bathroom.
- Guests use the nearby campground bathhouse facilities.
What should I bring when staying in the Mayor Cabin?
- Guests should bring their own linens and bedding (pillows, blankets, sleeping bags), towels, and toiletries.
- The cabin provides cooking and grill facilities but not linens.
How close is the Mayor Cabin to the beach and other campground amenities?
- The cabin is located within the campground grounds and is a short walk from Bass Lake Beach, the camp store, bathhouse, and other shared amenities.
Can I request a specific location for the cabin?
- Yes, you may request preferred cabin location or deck view when reserving.
- While we will attempt to accommodate your request, exact placement cannot be guaranteed.
What is the maximum occupancy for the Mayor Cabin?
- The cabin is suited for small groups or families.
- Please confirm occupancy limits at the time of booking to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.
What is the cancellation and change policy?
- Any changes or cancellations are subject to the campground’s standard policies: a full refund of the deposit less a fee if canceled in advance, partial refund if closer to arrival, and no refunds for short-notice cancellations or early departures.
Rules
Check-In Procedure
- RV/Campsite check-in time: after 3 PM and before dusk
- RV/Campsite check-out time: 12 noon
- Cabin/Cottage check-in time: 4 PM
- Cabin/Cottage check-out time: 11 AM
- While each park attempts to accommodate your exact spot request, the on-site manager has the ultimate decision for spot placement.
Quiet Hours
- Quiet Time 11 PM - 9 AM.
- No outside music, TVs, or noisy activities.
- Generators may not be operated in the campground.
Campfires
- Campfires must never be left unattended.
Occupancy
- Only 1 RV, 1 picnic table, and 2 vehicles per site.
- One immediate family or 6 unrelated adults per site.
- An 8’ x 6’ or smaller tent may be used on most RV sites.
Firearms
- Firearms must remain in your camper at all times.
Trees
- Do not cut/damage any trees or insert any hooks or nails into trees.
Motorcycles/Bicycles
- Motorcycles may be ridden to/from the campsite only.
- Bicycles and scooters may be ridden on roads only.
Speed Limit
- The speed limit of 5 MPH must be observed by all wheeled vehicles.
Alcohol
- Alcohol may be consumed inconspicuously on your site.
- Use of illegal substances or misuse of alcohol is grounds for immediate ejection.
Electric Vehicles
- Electric golf carts may be operated by licensed drivers and children over 10 when accompanied by an adult.
- Gas-powered carts are not allowed.
- Electric vehicles may be charged for a fee if prior arrangements are made with the office.
Boats
- Boats, sport utility vehicles, and utility trailers must be parked in the overflow lot by the Dog Park.
Pet Policy
- No dogs allowed on our beach.
- All pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times and tethered when on your campsite.
- No pets may be left unattended outside or in tents/popups.
- Pets left alone in RVs must remain quiet during your absence.
- You must clean up after your pet anywhere on the campground property.
- Pet stations have been provided for your convenience.
- The maximum number of pets per site is 2 -- exceptions must be approved before arrival.
- Obey all the rules while using the Bark Park.
- If you are traveling with a dog(s), you are certifying that your pet is up-to-date on shots, you will keep your pet leashed and tethered within your campsite at all times, and you will not allow your pet to bark excessively.
- Excessive barking will be an issue.
- If pets are deemed a disturbance, you will be asked to leave the campground without a refund.
Trash
- Trash will be collected roadside throughout the day.
- Last pickup is 8 PM, or it must be kept in the RV or car.
- Do not leave trash in firepits upon departure.
Visitors
- All visitors must register and pay a guest fee.
- Campers are responsible for the actions of their guests.
- All guests must depart by 10 PM.
Children Policy
- Parents are responsible for their children's conduct.
- Children cannot be left alone in the park without adult supervision.
- All children, including teens, need to return to their campsite by 10 PM.
- Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult in the Lodge.
Prohibited
- No fireworks or Chinese lanterns allowed in the park or beach.
- No fires allowed on the beach.
- No washing of RVs or vehicles.
- No outside deliveries of firewood are allowed.
- No political flags may be displayed anywhere on campground property.
Boat Guidelines
- Our dock can accommodate aluminum watercraft 16' or less.
- Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate pontoon or fiberglass boats at our roll-in dock.
- Pontoons or fiberglass boats may anchor offshore with a front and back anchor; the water is shallow enough to walk to the shoreline.
Cancellation Policy
Campsite Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made at least 10 days prior to your scheduled arrival: Deposit will be refunded less a $30 cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 5 – 9 days prior to your scheduled arrival: 50% of your deposit will be refunded.
- Cancellations less than 5 days prior to your arrival or no shows: No refunds.
- Option: You may change your campsite reservation dates up to 5 days prior to arrival with no penalty.
Cottage Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made at least 30 days prior to your scheduled arrival: Deposit will be refunded less a $50 cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 14 days prior to your scheduled arrival: 50% of your deposit will be refunded.
- Cancellations less than 14 days prior to your arrival or no shows: No refunds.
- No refunds for early departures for any reason.
- Option: You may change your reservation dates up to 14 days prior to arrival with no penalty.
Refund Policy
- Our guarantee: If within one hour after check-in you are not satisfied with our facilities or services, we will refund your money, no questions asked.
- After one hour, no refunds.
- There will be no refunds after you have checked in for inclement weather, failure to follow the Rules & Regulations, or disorderly conduct.
- Manager/Owner reserves the right to have discretion on all refunds.
- All Spot2Nite reservations require payment in full at the time of booking.
- Please contact Spot2Nite to cancel a reservation via email to [email protected] or call (877)778-2683, Option 1.
- Spot2Nite convenience fees and credit card processing fees are non-refundable.