White River Light Station — Attraction in Fruitland Township

My wife and I had the pleasure of visiting the White River Light in September 2023 during our RV road trip through Michigan, and what an incredible experience it was! Situated on a picturesque peninsula between Lake Michigan and White Lake, this lighthouse is a true gem for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a glimpse into Michigan's maritime past.

First and foremost, the lighthouse itself is a sight to behold. Built in 1875, it exudes charm and character, reminding visitors of a time when these towering beacons were essential for guiding ships safely along the shores. The rich history of the White River Light is palpable as you explore the well-preserved building and its grounds.

One of the highlights of our visit was the opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse tower. For a nominal fee of $8.00 for adults and just $5.00 for students 17 and under, we ascended the spiral staircase to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The climb is not just an adventure but also a chance to step back in time and imagine the keepers who diligently tended to this important beacon.

A special note for families: Children must be at least 40" tall to make the climb, so plan accordingly. The safety measures in place ensure a worry-free experience for all visitors.

As history buffs, we were captivated by the stories of the lighthouse's keepers, from Captain William Robinson and his large family to the pioneering Frances Marshall, who made history as the last female lighthouse keeper in Michigan. Their dedication and resilience echo through the halls of the museum, where you can explore a treasure trove of 19th and early 20th-century photographs and nautical artifacts.

One standout exhibit is the original Fourth Order Fresnel lens, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship, on display in the museum. It's a testament to the precision and artistry that went into the construction of these vital navigational tools.

Another unexpected delight was the shipwreck displayed outside the lighthouse. It's a haunting reminder of the perilous waters of Lake Michigan and the challenges faced by sailors in years gone by. The juxtaposition of this wreckage against the serene lake views is a powerful reminder of the lighthouse's importance.

When it comes to logistics, the White River Light has you covered. They provide dedicated parking for buses and RVs, making it convenient for travelers like us who were exploring the area in our 36-foot RV. The easy access allowed us to immerse ourselves in the history without any hassle.

In conclusion, the White River Light is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline. It offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and maritime heritage that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lighthouse aficionado, or simply looking for a captivating experience, this is a place you won't want to miss. Our visit here was an unforgettable journey back in time, and we highly recommend it to all travelers passing...

The outdoor area of the lighthouse is absolutely beautiful. It’s on the channel between White Lake and Lake Michigan, so seeing the boats come in from their long days fishing on the Great Lake is pretty cool. The lighthouse itself is quite small, and it’s $8 per person to climb. To me, as someone who works at a historical site where our museum is FREE (donations only), $8 seemed pretty steep to “climb” the very tiny lighthouse. My husband and I actually got engaged on the gallery deck of a lighthouse (much taller and FREE), so we love visiting different lighthouses, and seeing that it was $8 just to climb the little thing was pretty disappointing. It’s somewhat difficult these days to get a pretty photo of the front of the building at a decent angle because of the foliage, trees, hills & antiquities that they’ve added in front of the building. If I’d had my drone, I would have been able to get a great photo, but of course they didn’t allow drones which again, disappointing. The overgrown foliage and the hill made it impossible for me to get a good frontal photo of the building without it nearly being a worm’s-eye-view. The piece of shipwreck in front is kind of cool, but there really wasn’t much information on it at all. The informative plaque was more about the people who found it than the...

Whitehall & Montague, Michigan are no doubt two of the most beautiful towns to visit along the Lake Michigan coastline, And White River Light Station & Museum is a must see when visiting!

We have been there many times and it never disappoints. The lighthouse keepers are always very friendly, welcoming and quite knowledgeable. It is a beautiful and well kept piece of Michigan's maritime history. the views both of the lighthouse and from the top of it are spectacular! We love going up with our binoculars and viewing the surrounding beaches and the boats coming in and out of the channel or those far out on the big lake. Walking out the pier is nice to. great place to capture some awesome photos.

Bonus: Be sure to check out there website if you're planning a visit, they have outdoor live music and other great events...