For Lakeshore Keepers volunteers, the 2026 season began with a Lighthouse Crawl! During the Spring Fling, volunteers spent the day lighthouse-hopping and having an exclusive, behind-the-scenes opportunity to explore the historic light stations and keepers’ residences.
Manistee North Pierhead Light Keepers’ Residence
Lakeshore Keepers 2026 Spring Fling
Think of it as the ultimate “pub crawl,” but trade the pints for breathtaking views and historic charm! Volunteers started at the White River Light Station in White Hall and ended in Manistee for dinner. We explored cozy keeper residences, got an exclusive peek at the brand-new Manistee North Pierhead Light residence, and capped off the adventure with a lively dinner. It was the perfect way to swap stories and check out residences we’ve not visited before.
Manistee North Pierhead Light keepers’ residence kitchen
The Lakeshore Keepers operate five lights on Lake Michigan. Unfortunately, the Big Sable residence was not included in the Spring Fling because the National Guard was working on the road. We heard they were moving a sand dune that blows across the road, which then needs to be cleared. A costly battle that will hopefully be remedied soon.
But all other residences were open, as well as the newly acquired Manistee North Pierhead Light, which we could climb during the Spring Fling.
Manistee North Pierhead Light
Manistee North Pierhead Light
When it opens for the Summer Season in May, it will be the first time the lighthouse has been open to the public. We met a longtime Manistee resident who was very excited about the opportunity to climb to the top.
White River Light Station
Our first stop at the White River Light Station in Whitehall, where the volunteer keepers actually get to stay inside the lighthouse itself! When I saw how cozy that space was, I totally fell in love—it’s no wonder we heard that volunteer slots fill up fast.
Pro tip: If you want to call this home for a week during the season (May 12 to October 2 for 2026), submit your application early and include several time slots. And here’s some fantastic news: thanks to funding from Fruitland Township, the keepers’ residence has a new walk-in shower! Say goodbye to the old, clawfoot tub.
Little Sable Point Residence & Lighthouse
Not far down the road, our next stop was the Little Sable Point residence. The keepers’ house is a cozy DNR home on 18th Street in Mears. Such a charming spot with a lovely backyard. We spotted at least 5 squirrels happily scampering around.
Although we couldn’t climb Little Sable Point lighthouse, we had fun exploring the new gift shop! Other improvements included new tempered glass in the lantern room. Workers were there when we stopped to check out the new gift shop; you could barely see them at the top of the lighthouse.
Mark your calendars, Little Sable Point Lighthouse’s 2026 season opens on May 11.
Ludington North Breakwater Residence
The keepers’ residence is in DNR housing within Ludington State Park. Locating it was a bit of a challenge, as Google Maps seemed intent on sending us straight into Lake Michigan! It required a bit of detective work on our part to find the place. Pro Tip: The residence is located near the park headquarters. Take the first left on the park road that leads to the campgrounds.
The keepers’ residence is larger than you’d expect, with a roomy living area.
The Ludington North Breakwater Light 2026 season kicks off on May 19th! It wasn’t open for climbing during the Spring Fling, but Chuck braved the pier’s blustery winds to snag some photos.
Manistee North Pierhead Light & Residence
Last but also, the newest addition to the Lakeshore Keepers lights is the Manistee North Pierhead Light. Volunteers got a sneak preview and the opportunity to make the climb. It is a quarter of a mile hike out to the light on the pier.
If you are planning to make the climb, wear shoes with a back-strap; otherwise, it is a no-go. Also, this light doesn’t have stairs but almost vertical ladders. But if you are up for the challenge, the view is spectacular.
The keepers’ residence is in a newly renovated house in Manistee. VERY cute with a modern kitchen and bathrooms. Plus a killer deck to hang out on after a long day at the light.
The Manistee North Pierhead light 2026 season kicks off on May 25.
Insert YouTube video about the light.
Pictures
There are a few more photos in our gallery from the Spring Fling.
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