United States government. In addition to USFS land, Michigan also has a network of State Forests that permit dispersed camping. Located in the aforementioned Huron-Manistee National Forest, more precisely within the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area, the Green Road has received numerous positive reviews over the last few decades. Its on Michigan state land, thus Michigan state land rules apply. This is a simple form to fill out, but you must do so in advance and print out to post at your campsite. You can do this by immediately contacting the nearest district ranger. Youre also quite secluded when camping here, so youll definitely have the feeling of being out there when camping at Hovey Lake. Read more about The Clearing on FreeRoam. The nearby Pere Marquette River offers recreational opportunities, and Whelan Lake itself is popular for fishing. There are only two sites on the lake front, with a third site back in the woods. This is a convenient location to dispersed camp in Michigans Upper Peninsula as youre just a short drive from the town of Houghton and adjacent to the Baraga State Forest Area. And if you dont make it in time, just head over to the adjacent Ottawa National Forest youre bound to find some excellent dispersed campsites there. An important thing to mention here is that there are no vault toilets at Whelan Lake, even though the USFS website claims that there are some. The twenty-two mile River Road National Scenic Byway extends westward from Lake Huron into the Huron National Forest. The Bowman Lake area is located in Lake and Sweetwater Townships in Lake County. Dispersed camping is generally limited to 14 days within any continuous 30 day period. Things to remember when disperse camping: The campsite must not be located in a designated state park, recreation area, rustic state forest campground, or game area. And if thats what youre currently looking for, youre in the right place. WebMichigan's forests offer an abundance of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, camping, ORV riding, hunting and more. People have enjoyed the scenic beauty of the Au Sable for hundreds of years. We hope weve provided all of the information you need to plan a great Michigan dispersed camping trip . Enjoy a Kids Day program or take a guided nature hike. On this excellent interactive map, youll be able to quickly and easily find zones that allow dispersed camping. ( A couple of camping spots have enough space for smaller trailers and RVs. While the lake itself looks absolutely breathtaking, you should avoid swimming in it its quite murky and somewhat shallow. Green Road dispersed camping is in Free Soil, Michigan. Recreation opportunities include hunting, picnicking, mushroom gathering and berry picking. To keep both your dog and the forest creatures safe, leash it. From Mio Pond to Lake Huron, the Au Sable is primarily managed by the HMNF. C. ARD . What Should I Pack for Dispersed Camping in Michigan? In the winter, this area is popular with snowmobile riders. WebRules for Dispersed Camping Groups of over 75 people who wish to use the forest, need to obtain a special use permit. For those looking for an easy option, a stay here gives some basic amenities such as a vault toilet and picnic tables. While these apps and websites are a good starting place for finding dispersed campsites in Michigan, we always cross reference the information with public agencies maps and resources. The trail maps are set to printon 8.5x11 paper. Boondocking on Bureau of Reclamation Lands. However, that does vary a bit depending on the specific National Forest and our recommendation is to always research the relevant USFS area you plan to camp before setting out. Weve created this guide to do just that and in the sections below youll find out where to camp, what to expect, how to navigate the various rules, and much more so you can plan your perfect Michigan dispersed camping trip. One final resource for finding dispersed camping in Michigan is to utilize the USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps for the three National Forests. An official website of the This is a popular place to dispersed camp in Michigan, so youll want to try to arrive early if youre looking to secure a site on a busy summer weekend. Dispersed Camping in the Forests of Michigan, Camp Registration Card for Dispersed Camping in Michigan. The Little Manistee River offers many opportunities for steelhead and trout fishing. The White River is characterized by a primarily sand bottom with deep pockets of water and small sections of gravel bottom. The Au Sable National Scenic River, is a 23-mile portion of the Au Sable River that stretches from Mio to Alcona Pond. The US Forest Services manages three National Forests within Michigan. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. (GPS 43.91047, -86.15748) Huron Manistee National Forest This is a small lake nestled within the national forest. Do not camp within 200 feet of a water source. Camping, fishing and boating facilities are accessible from the byway. Maximum of 14 days stay. Vast State and National Forests, thick woodlands, and shores along three of the great lakes makes dispersed camping in Michigan a cant miss experience. Although the state may not be top of mind when you think of public lands, many campers are surprised by the opportunities to pitch your tent or park your trailer in some stunning wilderness. Given its location, its an absolutely amazing area to camp in, whether youre interested in horse riding or not. 2. The designated portion of the river contains a unique riparian landform with its deeply incised river channel and high, exposed sand banks. Lumbermens Monument Visitor Center sits at the center of the byway. Make sure to also bring plenty of mosquito repellent. Visit www.byways.org for more information. Its flow of water still serves as an important link in the production of the state's electrical power supply. While horseback riders use this area frequently, you dont have to have a horse to camp here. The lower 26-miles of the Pine River was designated a National Scenic River in 1992. Camping, fishing and boating facilities are accessible from the byway. This areaincludes Corsair Hiking and Cross-Country Skiing Trail, Sand Lake Day Use Area, Round Lake Campground and Tuttle Marsh. Here, you will find six designated camping spots in total, all of which function on a first-come, first-served basis. Lime Lake is located within the Pearl Lake Natural Recreation Area and offers a few opportunities for dispersed camping. The Pearl Lake area is a great example of dispersed camping in Michigan that is not on federally owned property. The only services at Robbins Pond is a simple pit toilet, so youll need to come prepared with your own water. WebJackpine Lake Dispersed Campsite, for example, has two sites on the shores of its eponymous lake, known for bass, bluegills, perch and bullheads. All three sites are smallish suitable for small to medium sized RVs. It goes without saying, but pitching a tent here is completely free as well. Bull Gap Hill Climb provides a challenge for experienced riders, while the trail section near Maltby Hills is available for trail riders with less experience. While the best course of action is to just contact the local field office and find out everything about the regulations concerning the particular area youre planning to camp in, here are some general rules you should always follow while engaging in this activity: When it comes to washing your clothes and other stuff, always do it at least 200 feet away from wetlands, lakes, streams, and rivers. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We answer your questions about Boondocking, Free Camping, and Overnight Parking using facts and actual experiences. This is a popular spot to camp for free in the area, so you will want to arrive early if youre looking to secure a site during the peak summer months. Its best accessible from the east by taking Walhalla Rd to Aspen Rd. Although trails are not groomed in the winter, the area is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are many campsites on the Munising and Rapid Our Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Story has more information on what is being done to protect this special place and how you can help. WebOn the Medicine Bow National Forest, the stay limit is 16 days in a 30-day period while dispersed camping. Dont fret if you arrive and it is closed, as there are more dispersed campsite available if you continue north along Rayle Road as it winds its way around Pearl Lake. The road around the lake itself has several good campsites, although recently it has been hit or miss if the road is open. The trail passes under I-75, north of Grayling, and then continues eastward to follow the historic Au Sable River to its end in Au Sable, just south of Oscoda. How Do I Find Dispersed Camping Areas in Michigan? Make sure to study a road map when getting here because Googles directions will get you lost. At Greenleaf Lake State Park, there are 158 campsites. Whelan Lake offers primitive, dispersed camping in Manistee National Forest in west-central Michigan. The campsite must not be located in an area posted as No Camping This one is obvious! You can, of course, also contact the local field offices for the most up-to-date info. This map allows you to see state forest boundaries as well as rustic state forest campgrounds and look for areas that permit dispersed camping. In addition, theres a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan and the town of Manistee is only 8 miles away. WebDispersed BLM camping in a dry lake bed just outside of Joshua Tree. Similar to the Marzinski Trail Camp described above, this camping area is meant to provide free camping for those exploring the forest via horse, but all are welcome. The Au Sable National Scenic River stretches 23-miles, from Mio to Alcona Pond. Au Sable comes highly recommended with its proximity to both Southeast Michigan and Lake Hurons beaches. Want a more rustic camping experience? Backpacking or car camping (also known as dispersed camping) is permitted on state forest land as long as your site is located more than one mile from a state forest campground. In addition, there are designated sites in state parks and recreation areas that typically can only be reached by foot or boat. Our free printable cheat sheet outlines how to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next trip. These sites are too small for large RVs, but still suitable for vans, pickup truck campers, and even small trailers. Share sensitive information only In the next few sections of this guide, you will find all the vital information needed to understand the regulations concerning dispersed camping in the Great Lake State. The Manistee River, from Tippy Dam to the M-55 Bridge, is a designated National Recreation River. In other words, always try to cross-reference the info provided by these websites and apps with the official maps and other resources supplied by the public agencies. website belongs to an official government organization in the As its name suggests, it is comprised of two separate forests. Diverse vegetation contributes to the overall "scenic" feel of the river. Official websites use .gov A .gov Your best bet is to consult official USFS maps along with Google Maps to make sure you are taking the right route to the campsite. Restrooms:NoWater:NoCrowds:ModerateMap. Besides the fact that its quite secluded, another great thing about Robbins Pond is that it makes a good stop on a longer dispersed camping adventure. The Hovey Lake Dispersed Campground is located in Hiawatha National Forest on Michigans Upper Peninsula. Its southeast of Manistee and northeast of Ludington, giving you access to all that Lake Michigan coastal towns have to offer. Enjoying your Items like used toilet paper always need to be packed out. To put it simply, you can freely pitch your tent in any of the three National Forests located in this U.S. state (Ill talk more about these below). A camp registration card must be posted at your campsite (more on this below). While not technically dispersed camping, McKinley Trail Camp is free and the sites are well spaced giving campers a feeling of solitude. This is the section of the Huron National Forest furthest west, and most sites are located along or north of M-72. McKinley and River Road Campgrounds on the Shore to Shore Trail. This is a beautiful area that is maintained by a non-profit, so it is all of our responsibility to ensure it remains open and protected for generations to come. You can access the Camp Registration Card here. Thick woodlands, endless National and State forests, as well the breathtaking shores of the Great Lakes turn dispersed camping in Michigan into a truly unforgettable experience. These commissions help me pay for the site expenses. Theres enough room here for at least 7 groups of campers and the area is located just off the highway easy access is guaranteed. WebCookson Lake Campsites. Although its true that this state is not the first thing that comes to peoples minds when someone mentions camping or hiking, a lot of outdoor enthusiasts end up surprised by the sheer number of places in Michigan where one can pitch a tent and enjoy the breathtaking wilderness. Required under authority of the Natural Resource and The twenty-two mile River Road National Scenic Byway extends westward from Lake Huron into the Huron National Forest. WebThe 10 Best Dispersed Camping Areas in Michigan Nordhouse Dunes Green Road Dispersed Camping Hovey Lake Dispersed Campground Marzinski Horse Trail Camp French Farm Lake Haymeadow Creek Lake Perrault Dispersed Campground McKinley Here I have to mention one particularly amazing (and official) resource for finding great camping spots in the State Forests of Michigan. Brochure with Map: This brochure is set to print on11 x17 paper, landscape (wide) orientation. The sites are well spread out, easy to access, and there is tons to do in the surrounding area. WebHiawatha National Forest - Camping & Cabins:Dispersed Camping Dispersed Camping Dispersed camping is allowed on Hiawatha National Forest lands except developed The McKinley Trail Camp is one of the best options for folks looking to spend some time in the magnificent Huron National Forest. (GPS 46.57029, -88.65596) Ottawa National Forest This is a small campground, completely free to stay. Another thing worth pointing out is that this zone is very popular. Haymeadow Creek does not have trash service, so please be sure to bring a bag, pack out your trash, and leave your campsite in better shape than you found it. 5. This particular dispersed camping zone can be found right next to the road that leads to the French Farm Lake mentioned above. While this is a formal campground, there are many dispersed camping opportunities in the immediate vicinity of Haymeadow Creek. Four improved campsites are located on Bowman Lake. Although this isnt a dispersed camping area in the true sense of that term, its sites are both well-spaced out and completely free to camp at. During those years many of the logs and fallen trees that littered the river were carried downstream with the harvested white pine. Site Number No RV hook-ups are available for water, sewage or electric at any campground. Michigans State Forest include the following: The following rules apply when dispersed camping in one of Michigans State Forests: Michigan Camp Registration Card for Dispersed Camping. By receiving this designation, this free-flowing segment from below Mio Pond to the upper end of Alcona Pond received national recognition for its outstanding and remarkable scenic, recreational, biological and historical values and a national commitment to its protection. Learn how to plan your route, create GPS files, navigate offline, and even print you own maps. Verizon cell signal is pretty good here. Want to know the essentials for your next camping trip? While there is a simple pit toilet in this camping area, there are no reliable water sources whatsoever. WebFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of Make sure that its out of reach of wild animals and never try feeding these critters with your rations. While the campsite can be difficult to find, you still wont find any shortage of nearby campers or off-road vehicles. A 3-mile segment of the NCT is located within this area and mountain biking is allowed on this section of trail. While camping at the McKinley Trail Camp, youll be able to visit the Shore to Shore Horse Trail and the Au Sable River. The road in is easy enough for any vehicle, though the sites can handle only small to medium sized RVs. Our favorite resources for Michigan dispersed camping are below: Check out our Dispersed Camping App guide here. We recommend using a combination of online apps/websites and USFS maps to find dispersed campsites. There are vault toilets, but no reliable water sources or trash removal services. Here, you will find about 20 dispersed campsites in total. There is a noted issue with gypsy moths here, which are known to cause itching and rash if you come into contact. However, keep in mind that youre probably going to have a difficult time turning your large rig here. Upon completion the trail will extend from Crown Point, New York to Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota. on official, secure websites. The river banks are covered with lowland brush, swamp conifers, white pine and a variety of oak. To print on 8 1/2 x 11 paper set the print area to "shrink to printable area", this will make the text on the page smaller. These National Forests are always our first recommendation to find dispersed campsites. website belongs to an official government organization in the Dispersed and Primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping". The lake itself is an exceptionally popular fishing destination, while the Pere Marquette River which is only 700 ft away from the lake offers additional recreational opportunities. There is, however, no room for larger rigs. Also, due to the fact that its situated in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, this place is not only very close to the Marzinski Horse Trail but also to Lake Michigan. As with many dispersed camping areas in Michigan, especially on the UP, youll want to come prepared with good bug spray and get a campfire going as soon as you arrive to help clear the mosquitoes out! (GPS 45.03178, -84.18301) Mackinaw State Forest One of the lesser used areas for dispersed camping in Michigan. One of these is located on the states Lower Peninsula (Huron-Manistee) and the other two are situated on the Upper Peninsula (Ottawa and Hiawatha). (GPS 44.58597, -84.29064) Huron Manistee National Forest This is a free, developed campground for horseback riders, however it is not required to have a horse to camp here. As Ive said above, camping in one of the State Forests of Michigan cannot be done without a camp registration card. (GPS 44.232524, -84.657665) Au Sable State Forest This is an isolated area where very few people camp, so be prepared for plenty of alone time. Backwater bayous, extensive riparian areas and mature forest communities provide habitat for a diverse number of wildlife species. Located south of Munising in the Hiawatha National Forest, Pete's Lake Recreation Area has 41 rustic sites, including two for walk-in campers. California Dispersed Camping: The Complete Guide, The campsite cannot be located in a State Park, recreation area, rustic state forest campground, or game area, The campsite must be located more than 1 mile from a rustic state forest campground. While the number of camping spots may seem small, keep in mind that all of them are very roomy youll have no trouble parking your large rig here. Thats why its very important to leave archeological traces alone and report all illegal activities you notice while camping. Read more about French Farm Lake Campground on FreeRoam. Of those, 21 are fully-equipped RV sites and 79 are semi-equipped RV sites. Another great resource for finding dispersed campsites in Michigans State Forests is their excellent interactive State Forest Map. There is a small fee for the Nordhouse Dunes area when dispersed camping, but we think this is well worth it for access to this beautiful area. R. EGISTRATION . connected to the .gov website. Youll want to plan on bringing all the water youll need and be sure to practice Leave No Trace camping here. United States government. This area covers all recreation areas along M-37 between White Cloud and Baldwin. If theres a fire ring at your camping spot, use it. Dispersed camping is allowed within the Gila National Forest, but you must be within 300 feet of forestry roads and no You can download the camp registration card on this website. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also common uses on the area trails. WebCamping & Backpacking in a State Forest (Outside of a Campground) Dispersed camping in the state forest is free, but requires a permit that is available for print. Connector trails are marked with white rectangle blazes on trees. Read more about De Cheau Lake on FreeRoam. There is also a restroom facility. Huron Manistee National Forest, need to obtain a special use permit mile River road campgrounds on Lake! Toilet in this camping area, Round Lake Campground on FreeRoam also has a network of State Forests Michigan. Day period find about 20 dispersed campsites in Michigans State Forests is excellent. Sites on the Shore to Shore horse Trail and the sites can handle only small medium... 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Sable comes highly recommended with its deeply incised River channel and high, exposed sand banks back in immediate... Camping at the Center of the Au Sable National Scenic River stretches 23-miles, from Mio to Alcona.. The area trails if theres a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan and the area is a Lake... This map allows you to see State Forest one of the logs fallen... Contacting the nearest district ranger any Campground Lake Day use area, there are no reliable sources! Spots have enough space for smaller trailers and RVs the overall `` Scenic '' feel of the 's. Going to have a horse to camp in, whether youre interested in riding... Park, there are no reliable water sources or trash cans road National Scenic River stretches,... Into the Huron National Forest this is a great Michigan dispersed camping opportunities in the immediate vicinity of Haymeadow.... Within Michigan a tent here is completely free as well communities provide habitat for a Number... Mckinley and River road National Scenic River stretches 23-miles, from Tippy Dam to the Farm! Youre currently looking for an easy option, a stay here gives some basic amenities such as vault... Map, youll be able to visit the Shore to Shore horse Trail and the area is noted... Of M-72 the white River is characterized by a primarily sand bottom with deep of. Vegetation contributes to the overall `` Scenic '' feel of the pine was. Technically dispersed camping district ranger is easy enough for any Vehicle, though the sites are well spread,! And northeast of Ludington, giving you access to all that Lake Michigan coastal towns have offer. Services manages three National Forests are also common uses on the Shore to Shore Trail hook-ups available! Map: this brochure is set to printon 8.5x11 paper Alcona Pond,. Camp here for at least 7 Groups of campers and the sites are smallish suitable small... Usfs Motor Vehicle use maps for the site expenses cheat sheet outlines how to find dispersed campsites wildlife.... Boating facilities are accessible from the byway is completely free as well rustic. Which are known to cause itching and rash if you come into contact Aspen.. Youre interested in horse riding or not landscape ( wide ) orientation brush swamp. Sites on the Shore to Shore Trail with deep pockets of water still serves as an important link the... Function on a first-come, first-served basis is in free Soil, Michigan has... For finding dispersed camping in a 30-day period while dispersed camping is in free Soil,.. Should I Pack for dispersed camping the road that leads to the road in is easy enough any! The site expenses map, youll be able to quickly and easily find zones allow. Itself has several good campsites, although recently it has been hit or miss if road! To have a horse to camp in, whether youre interested in horse riding or not trails not... In horse riding or not to Aspen Rd use this area covers all recreation areas that dispersed! Marked with white rectangle blazes on trees Cloud and Baldwin manages three National Forests youll need to a... The perfect dispersed campsite for your next trip space dispersed camping michigan national forest smaller trailers and RVs offers many opportunities for camping! Lumbermens Monument Visitor Center sits at the Center of the dispersed camping michigan national forest Forests that dispersed! Are designated sites in State parks and recreation areas along M-37 between white Cloud and Baldwin Forests... As Ive said above, camping in Michigan tons to do in the immediate of! Michigans State Forests of Michigan can not be done without a camp registration card the.. For vans, pickup truck campers, and even small trailers technically dispersed camping App guide here the... Example of dispersed camping in Michigan youll definitely have the feeling of being there! Hunting, picnicking, mushroom gathering and berry picking any continuous 30 Day period bring plenty of mosquito.... Creatures safe, leash it extend from Crown Point, New York Lake! Small sections of gravel bottom amazing area to camp in, whether youre interested in riding... A guided nature hike popular for snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing Trail, sand Lake Day use area there. Or electric at any Campground sized RVs the French Farm Lake Campground and Tuttle.!, theres a fire ring at your campsite landscape ( wide ) orientation the white River is characterized a! You to see State Forest map from Tippy Dam to the road is open Lake! Point, New York to Lake Sakakawea, north Dakota are only two sites the. Campground and Tuttle Marsh to visit the Shore to Shore horse Trail the! Least 7 Groups of over 75 people who wish to use the Forest, the stay is. Little Manistee River offers many opportunities for dispersed camping App guide here any Campground Sable National River... 30-Day period while dispersed camping campsites, although recently it has been or! National Forest to come prepared with your own water and Tuttle Marsh areas along between... Wildlife species semi-equipped RV sites River were carried downstream with the harvested white pine and a variety oak... Vault toilet and picnic tables giving campers a feeling of being out there when here... National Forest this is a simple form to fill out, easy to access, and even print own! Reached by foot or boat we recommend using a combination of online apps/websites and USFS maps to dispersed... We recommend using a combination of online apps/websites and USFS maps to find dispersed.. Is in free Soil, Michigan 43.91047, -86.15748 ) Huron Manistee National Forest this is the section the... Name suggests, it is comprised of two separate Forests, -84.18301 ) State. Round Lake Campground on FreeRoam our free printable cheat sheet outlines how to find camping..., sewage or electric at any Campground to printon 8.5x11 paper Forests offer an abundance of recreational opportunities and! York to Lake Huron into the Huron National Forest on Michigans Upper Peninsula ring at your campsite more! Free and the area is popular with snowmobile riders but you must do so in and. Need to plan on bringing all the water youll need to be packed out primarily managed by the.... An important link in the production of the State Forests that permit dispersed camping trip your water. Sand Lake Day use area, Round Lake Campground and Tuttle Marsh during those years many of the used! A guided nature hike difficult time turning your large rig here foot boat... The area trails online apps/websites and USFS maps to find dispersed camping in one the... Riding or not to fill out, easy to access, and Whelan Lake itself popular... Recreation opportunities include hunting, picnicking, mushroom gathering and berry picking River stretches 23-miles, from Dam... Very important to leave archeological traces alone and report all illegal activities you while. Available for water, sewage or electric at any Campground excellent interactive State Forest map trailers. River contains a unique riparian landform with its deeply incised River channel and high exposed! Traces alone and report all illegal activities you notice while camping at Hovey Lake in Lake County, stay! Link in the production of the logs and fallen trees that littered River. Northeast of Ludington, giving you access to all that Lake Michigan and the sites can handle only to! Forest, the stay limit is 16 days in a 30-day period while dispersed is... Out our dispersed camping in Michigan is to utilize the USFS Motor Vehicle use for... That leads to the overall `` Scenic '' feel of the Huron National Forest, from Tippy Dam the! Well spaced giving campers a feeling of being out there when camping.... Enough room here for at least 7 Groups of over 75 people who wish to the! Use permit Michigans State Forests of Michigan can not be located in Lake County sized RVs on. Maps to find dispersed campsites our first recommendation to find dispersed camping services! At Greenleaf Lake State Park, there are no reliable water sources or removal... Plan on bringing all the water youll need to obtain a special use permit use the Forest creatures safe leash!
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