Fort Custer Recreational Area State Highway M-96 Augusta, MI 49012 Phone: 269-731-4200 Web Site: www.michigandnr.com 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. There exist several water resources that are valuable to the park. The Kalamazoo River provides an undeveloped natural setting along the park's embankment. In the early 1970s, low-head dams were constructed at the outlets of Whitford-Lawler Lake and the Jackson Lake to increase the lake size and provide waterfowl habitat. The Eagle Lake dam was built in 1982 to increase the lake size, which provided both water-based and general recreational opportunities to a growing population in southern Michigan. The Fort Custer area has cultural significance. Territorial Road was originally an old Indian trail. As pioneers came to Michigan, the trail provided an east/west route. Lawler Cemetery is located next to Territorial Road. Owned by Frank W. Lawler, a local farmer at the time, the cemetery contains tombstones of some of the state's early settlers. Over time, the trail grew into a stage coach route between St. Louis and Detroit. Eventually, the area was farmed by early settlers. Several homestead foundations still exist within the park. In 1917, Camp Custer was built for military training during World War I. The camp was named after Civil War cavalry officer General George Armstrong Custer. In 1940, Camp Custer was designated Fort Custer and became a permanent military training base for World War II. Trail usage is a large component of the park. Fort Custer is a popular year-round destination for mountain bike users, equestrians, hikers and dog mushers. For a complete history and additional information on the Recreation Area, click HERE. For additional information on the multi-purpose trails at Fort Custer Recreation Area, click HERE. < Return to Sports Facilities