Limited 2026 seasonal sites available – military discount, too! Call now! (231) 869-5050

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about us

A restful escape between two lakes

Old-growth oak, pine and white birch, the clear water of Bass Lake and the white sand of Lake Michigan: welcome to Whispering Surf.

welcome to Bass Lake

Where nature and comfort blend

Experience a relaxing stay at our serene and picturesque retreat. As you arrive, you’ll be given a warm welcome by our staff and escorted to your site.

Surrounded by the beauty of Bass Lake and old-growth trees, our campground is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway or a peaceful escape. A short morning walk takes you to the sun rising over Bass Lake; in the evening the sky over Lake Michigan turns gold.

Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the campfire, enjoying a kayak ride on the lake, or gazing at the starry night sky, every moment is designed to be cherished.

Kayak rack on the sandy Bass Lake beach with the swim dock in the distance
Campers dining in the Lodge next to the pool table
the Lodge
Beach chairs on the Lake Michigan dunes near Pentwater
a century on the lakeshore

113 years of camping on Bass Lake

Founded in 1913, the campground predates Michigan’s first state park, the modern highway system, recreational vehicles, and even widespread automobile travel.

1911
A choir camp

Rev. Arthur Morrison brings boys from his Chicago church for a summer choir camp.

1913
Camp Morrison

Guests arrive by boat at the Bass Lake outlet and sleep in tents on the dunes.

1915
The Lodge

Built in 1915 and still standing, it becomes the heart of camp life.

1930s
Trailers arrive

Electricity, modern cabins and the first travel trailers.

1966
Whispering Surf

Reg and Dorothy Yaple modernize the camp and give it a new name.

Today
The Mannings

Lisa and her father Fred Manning carry on the traditions.

Vintage Camp Morrison brochure for cabins on beautiful Bass Lake in Pentwater
History
113 Years on the Lakeshore: The Early History of Whispering Surf (1913–1965)

From Camp Morrison on the dunes to one of Michigan’s historic family vacation destinations.

Historic Whispering Surf Camping Resort brochure and old photos
History
113 Years on the Lakeshore: How Whispering Surf Became the Campground We Know Today (1966–Present)

How Reg and Dorothy Yaple transformed Camp Morrison into one of Michigan’s favorite family camping destinations.

ways to stay

RV, tent, cottage or cabin

RV campsites along a shaded campground road
RV

RV campsites

from $62 / night
  • Full hook-up or water & electric
  • 20 / 30 / 50 amp
  • Picnic table & fire ring
Tents pitched among tall trees on wooded tent sites
Tent

Tent campsites

from $49 / night
  • Electric (20 amp) or rustic
  • Water available nearby
  • Shaded under the pines
Dorothy Cottage, a white cottage with a red door, patio seating and umbrella
Cottage · 3 BR

The Dorothy Cottage

from $220 / night
  • Full bath & kitchenette
  • Heat & AC
  • Patio, gas grill & fire ring
Davis Cottage with its wraparound wooden deck in the pines
Cottage · 2 BR

The Davis Cottage

from $180 / night
  • Full bath & kitchenette
  • Wood deck & patio set
  • Heat & AC
Mayor Cabin with a deck, picnic table and fire ring
Rustic cabin

The Mayor Cabin

from $85 / night
  • Twin bunk beds
  • Large deck & gas grill
  • 2-night minimum
our people

Carrying on the traditions

Lisa Manning and her father Fred Manning now own the campground and are proud to carry on the traditions and history of this beautiful property.

Each summer, a team of friendly work campers helps create the welcoming, family atmosphere that makes every stay special.

Campground owner in a flower hat in the camp store
Our people

Meet the Owner: Lisa Manning of Whispering Surf Campground

Lisa and her father Fred Manning are proud to carry on the traditions and history of this property.

Collage of the Whispering Surf team and campers
Our people

Meet the Whispering Surf Team – Summer 2026

The friendly work campers who help create the welcoming, family atmosphere at Whispering Surf.

Let’s go camping!

Want to set up a reservation?

Escape to Whispering Surf Campground at Bass Lake in Pentwater, Michigan! Discover the beauty of nature, embark on thrilling adventures, and create lifelong memories.

let’s go camping!
Book your spot between two lakes
  • Private Bass Lake beach & boat rentals
  • Free WiFi, Bark Park & camp store
  • Saturday coffee, popcorn & campfire
book your stay

Plan your stay

Rates include your site, 4 unrelated adults or a family up to 6, and 1 dog. Season: May 1 – Oct 15.

Prefer to book instantly? Book online on Campspot · or call (231) 869-5050