EXPLORE · FREE CAMPING
Free Camping in Michigan
Michigan's Upper Peninsula has dispersed camping in the Ottawa, Hiawatha, and Chequamegon-Nicolet national forests. The Ottawa National Forest in the western UP around Ironwood and Watersmeet has the most dispersed camping access. The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park also allows backcountry camping. Lower Michigan has the Huron-Manistee national forests with dispersed camping in the lower peninsula.
No reservations needed for dispersed camping. Check fire restrictions at fs.usda.gov before your trip — restrictions change frequently in summer. Stay limit is typically 14 days at any one location. Find free camping on the Trek4Free map →
Before You Go
Gear up for dispersed camping — no hookups, no camp store, no running water
Free Camping Sites in Michigan
Located between the Au Sable River Scenic Overlook and Au Sable Loop Campground, this small site is a short . 5 mile walk from the gate. Set back from the road …
This site is primarily used by anglers, hunters and families for camping. There is a short, .25 mile walk from the campsites to the river, through federal and …
The campground is walk-in only, with carry-in canoe access. This quiet and secluded campground is very popular with fisherman and hunters.
Grand Island is a Congressionally designated National Recreation Area with fascinating history, beautiful overlooks, pristine sandy beaches, dense hardwood fore…
ROCK RAPIDS DISPERSED CAMPSITES (Camping Area)