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Access Site MI

South Reek Road

Pere Marquette River Big South Branch Pere Marquette River

Source: michigan_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Custer, MI
County: Mason County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 43.93732332, -86.18237882
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
South Reek Road provides boat access to the Pere Marquette River, a significant waterway in west-central Michigan. The Pere Marquette is a large river system with a total length of nearly 64 miles and drains an extensive 715 square mile watershed. At this location, the river maintains an average flow of approximately 864 cubic feet per second with a moderate gradient of 2.9 feet per mile, making it suitable for various types of boating activities.

The river's characteristics support both motorized and non-motorized boating, with an average velocity of 2 feet per second indicating a gentle to moderate current. The access point at Custer in Mason County serves as a gateway to exploring this productive waterway. Boaters should be aware of the river's natural flow patterns and maintain awareness of water conditions, which can vary seasonally. The Pere Marquette's relatively large stream order classification indicates it is a substantial river with adequate depth for most boat types in normal conditions.

This access point provides a launching opportunity for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters interested in exploring the lower Pere Marquette River system. Paddlers should consider the river's current and plan trips accordingly, particularly if traveling upstream. The area around Custer offers a rural setting typical of west-central Michigan's waterways, providing a relatively undeveloped access point to this important regional river.