In pre-European settlement times, Native Americans used the river as a travel route. You will, however, have to fill it out in advance, print it, and then take it with you to the campsite, where youll have to post it in a visible spot. WebPete's Lake Munising. In my opinion, those wishing to engage in dispersed camping in the state of Michigan should prioritize these National Forests above other areas. As noted above, when dispersed camping in one of Michigans State Forests, you must complete and post a camp registration card at your campsite for the duration of your stay. At Greenleaf Lake State Park, there are 158 campsites. It will be the longest, continuous hiking trail in the United States. How Many Solar Panels Do I Need for Boondocking? GPS coordinates for the campground access road is (43.75468, -85.90410). However, the rules for pitching a tent in these forests are somewhat different than the ones concerning the aforementioned Forest Service lands. The campsites here are large, so can accommodate a variety of camping set-ups and also benefit from a bit of privacy between each site. However, salmon season is particularly busy on the river. There is a restroom facility as well. This is dispersed camping in Michigan at its finest! Of course, you can always combine these with the aforementioned camping apps and Google Maps to find a camping area that suits your needs the best. Make sure to also bring plenty of mosquito repellent. The Pine River has the fastest average flow of any river in lower Michigan. The dunes themselves are just a short distance form the campsites and make the perfect day trip to explore the lakeshore and unique environment. Although not traditional dispersed camping, the sites here are free and well spaced out. WebJackpine Lake Dispersed Campsite, for example, has two sites on the shores of its eponymous lake, known for bass, bluegills, perch and bullheads. If youve always wanted to explore the not-so-well-known areas of this state, this is a phenomenal destination and one thats open year-round. Here, you will find six designated camping spots in total, all of which function on a first-come, first-served basis. First Michigan dispersed camping area Ill be taking a look at is the Hovey Lake Dispersed Campground. Wildlife species that commonly inhabit this area include white-tailed deer, bobcat, coyote, red fox, raccoon, porcupine, squirrels, pileated woodpecker, ruffed grouse, wild turkey and various songbirds. The Au Sable National Scenic River stretches 23-miles, from Mio to Alcona Pond. Let me know in the comments below if I have missed any great spots or if anything needs updating. Do it all the time. C. AMP . (GPS 46.89123, -89.09722) Private Property This is located on land owned by Timber Resource Group (TRG), a logging company. Our final Michigan dispersed camping spot is also one of the most secluded. Looking for more dispersed camping content? (GPS 44.08561, -86.41265) Huron Manistee National Forest This dirt road runs for about 2 miles through a small portion of the Huron Manistee National Forest and provides several small boondocking sites. There is tons to explore in the area including the Au Sable River, Shore to Shore Horse Trail, as well as not being from from Lake Huron itself. After European settlement of the area, the Au Sable River was a major throughway for floating white pine to sawmills or waiting barges at ports on Lake Huron. Michigans National Forests are listed below along with a link to the dispersed camping guidelines for each area: In addition to the the three National Forests in Michigan there are also six State Forests managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources that allow various forms of dispersed camping. Enjoy the sounds of Sparrow Rapids as they wash along the East Branch Ontonagon River. Our forests are carefully managed to provide a balance between recreation and conservation. For that matter, its very important that you do your best and not spread invasive weeds while camping in Michigan. The fact that Michigan isnt even as nearly as popular as the western states when it comes to dispersed camping is actually a good thing. The trail system is marked with orange confidence markers. WebMichigan's forests offer an abundance of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, camping, ORV riding, hunting and more. Located south of Munising in the Hiawatha National Forest, Pete's Lake Recreation Area has 41 rustic sites, including two for walk-in campers. WebWelcome to the Southern Gateway of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. There are no amenities of any kind here, though, so youll want to come well-prepared. Campers also report low branches along the way in. Both the beach and the International Dark Sky Park are very close, which turns this area into a phenomenal choice for campers interested in stargazing. The Manistee River Trail follows the east shore of the Manistee River for 8.8 miles through rolling hills. Remember, you must be at least 1 mile for a rustic state forest campground in order to dispersed camp. Where can you camp for free in Michigan? Besides these USFS-managed lands, there is also a network of State Forests in Michigan, and dispersed camping is allowed in these as well. (GPS 45.75738, -84.76691) Mackinaw State Forest Free camping close to Mackinaw City, there are six campsites here, with the first four being suitable for large RVs. 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. A 3-acre lake is located within the area. Visit, Au Sable River - Alcona Dam to Lake Huron, Au Sable Loop Campground and Day Use Area, Horseshoe Lake Campground and Boat Launch, Little Manistee River, National Scenic Study River, Bowman Bridge Campground and River Access, Gleason's Landing Campground and River Access, Log Mark Rest Stop Canoe and Fishing Landing, Luzerne Horse Trail Campground and Trailhead, South Branch Trail Campground and Trailhead, Huron-Manistee National Forests completes Slagle Creek bridge project, Don't Move Firewood! Brochure with Map: This brochure is set to print on 11 x 17 paper, landscape (wide) orientation. This section provides motorboat opportunities with a lake fishing atmosphere. You can learn more about this lumbering history at Lumbermens Monument Visitor Center that sits at the center of the byway. 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. What Do the Different Colors Mean on Google Maps? While the road should be passable by most vehicles, keep in mind that it can be difficult to turn around in a larger rig here. While dispersed camping in Michigan still remains elusive for many, weve put together a list of ten (10) boondocking sites that may interest you, The following campsites were selected based on our own experiences camping there and based on popularity with other boondockers. However, people have been known to boondock on their lands frequently. Is Camping Allowed on Michigan State Land? (GPS 46.288597, -86.698681) Hiawatha National Forest This is a free campground located on the banks of Hovey Lake. This river is not navigable for canoeing or boating, however it is an excellent river for cold-water fishing. This trail system can also be used by mountain bikers and horseback riders. This particular dispersed camping zone can be found right next to the road that leads to the French Farm Lake mentioned above. In general, with a little knowledge of where to look, experience navigating forest service roads, reading USFS maps, and camping in remote locations, you should be able to find plenty of dispersed campsites in Michigan. (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. The regulations for camping here are slightly different from the USFS, and we provide additional context and details on State Forest dispersed camping in Michigan below. For example, you cant camp for more than two weeks during a 1-month period. However, youll want good background information as well as intel on the best campsites before you set out on your own Michigan dispersed camping trip. Lumbermens Monument Visitor Center sits at the center of the byway. This small lake is located just off the highway and has room for 6 or 7 groups adjacent to the lake. The section north of Tippy Dam, up to Hodenpyl Dam Pond, is bordered on either side by the Manistee River Trail and the North Country National Scenic Trail. While the campsite can be difficult to find, you still wont find any shortage of nearby campers or off-road vehicles. This is dispersed camping in Michigan at its finest! Even though this is water front camping, its actually not that buggy, though you will still want to bring your favorite mosquito repellent. Do not produce unnecessary noise and ruin other peoples camping experience in that way. All Huron-Manistee National Forests Offices, https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/hmnf/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=18536&actid=34, Huron-Manistee National Forests completes Slagle Creek bridge project, Don't Move Firewood! Visitor recreation activities include camping, fishing, mushroom gathering, bird-watching, hunting, hiking and canoeing. 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. In the fall, hunters come from all over to take advantage of the abundant white-tailed deer, waterfowl and small game huntingavailable along the river. The Best Areas for Dispersed Camping in Michigan, The Best Dispersed Camping Near Telluride, CO, The Complete Guide to Camping in Custer State Park, The Best Mallaig Campsites & Nearby (Scotland), At your campsite, you have to post a camp registration card (Ill provide more info on this later), It goes without saying, but pitching a tent in areas with No Camping signs is not allowed, You cannot set up your campsite within a 1-mile radius of a rustic state forest campground, You cannot set up your campsite in a game area, recreation area, or a State Park. Paddlers find the river to be a steady and moderate float, with a meandering course. The US Forest Services manages three National Forests within Michigan. Use existing sites and fire rings when available. There are six of them in total and all are supervised by the DNR (Department of Natural Resources for Michigan). Its well-used area for off-road vehicles and fishing. Our free printable cheat sheet outlines how to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next trip. Thank you for the information on dispersed camping in Michigan. 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. Camping is only allowed at designated sites within the river corridors for the designated Wild and Scenic sections of the Pere Marquette, Pine, Manisteeand Au Sable Rivers. There are vault toilets, but no reliable water sources or trash removal services. Share sensitive information only In the winter, this area is popular with snowmobile riders. LockA locked padlock Dispell the myths of boondocking and arm yourself with the laws and truths. The dispersed camping sites located along the Green Road vary from roomy and secluded areas to simple pull-outs next to the road itself. Although trails are not groomed in the winter, the area is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. This will minimize your impact and ensure your campsite can be enjoyed by future visitors. This campground is noted for its thick, dense canopy of trees with lots of shade. You can easily string this place together with some other Upper Peninsula dispersed campsites mentioned in this article. The Manistee River between Tippy Dam and the M-55 Bridgewas designated as a National Recreational River in 1996. The brochure is set to print on 11 x 17 paper, landscape (wide) orientation. The Little Manistee River offers many opportunities for steelhead and trout fishing. Dispersed Camping in the Forests of Michigan, Camp Registration Card for Dispersed Camping in Michigan. The Bowman Lake area is located in Lake and Sweetwater Townships in Lake County. The sites are well spread out, easy to access, and there is tons to do in the surrounding area. Even though this is water front camping, its actually not that buggy, though you will still want to bring your favorite mosquito repellent. Dispersed camping is allowed on Hiawatha National Forest lands except developed recreation and administrative sites, campgrounds and designated campsites. Its on national forest land, so its free camping. To find what roads and trails are open to a particular use, visitors should obtain a. In addition to USFS land, Michigan also has a network of State Forests that permit dispersed camping. Unfortunately, there is no drinking water here, so make sure to bring some with you. After sixteen (16) days the camp and equipment MUST be moved off of Forest Service System lands. 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