Dispersed camping near Munising, Michigan provides several free options in the Hiawatha National Forest for those seeking more primitive experiences away from established campgrounds. These sites lack electrical hookups and modern facilities but offer direct access to natural surroundings with greater privacy. At Hickey Marsh, located approximately 10 minutes from Munising, campers can access multiple undesignated sites along unpaved forest roads. Camping conditions vary significantly by season, with spring typically muddy, summer requiring insect protection, and fall offering colorful landscapes with fewer crowds.
What to do
Kayaking and watersports: Otter Lake Campground offers kayak, canoe, and paddle boat rentals directly on-site, allowing campers to explore the calm waters. "The lake is clean. The owners are very nice and helpful. I can't recommend this campground enough," notes one visitor to Otter Lake Campground & Lodge.
Hiking bird trails: Au Train Lake Campground features an educational bird watching trail with interpretive signs. "There was a great trail near our campsite that had signs and info about the birds in the area (great for young ones especially)," according to a camper at Au Train Lake Campground.
Visiting historical sites: Bay Furnace Campground contains the remains of a 150-year-old iron smelting furnace within the campground itself. "We love the history of the campground with the bay furnace within the limits. Where they used to smelt iron in a 150 year old furnace is fascinating," reports one camper who appreciated this unique feature.
Lake swimming: Several campgrounds offer lake access with varying water temperatures. One visitor to Superior Times mentioned, "Water was 'crisp' lol, another way to say cold, but refreshing. Sand and rocks and driftwood."
What campers like
Private shoreline access: Munising Tourist Park offers waterfront tent sites with direct lake views and beach access. "I was in spot N which is one of their rustic tent spots right on Lake Superior. $25/night which was very reasonable. My site had a nice, level and sandy spot for the tent," explains a visitor to Munising Tourist Park Campground.
Free camping options: Hovey Lake provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "For free camping with privvys, firepits, picnic tables and pump water, You can't beat this campground with a stick. Has a water pump. The privvys are actually in good shape and do not stink," notes a camper at Hovey Lake Campsites.
Lack of crowds: Hickey Marsh dispersed camping offers solitude with minimal facilities. "Just off M-28, down the right side road a bit you will see campfire remnants and a spot where people tend to park on the left. No signage and only saw 2 pre-used spots...Quiet spot especially in early May, cell service with Verizon was shockingly good," reports a visitor to Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping.
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms. "The vault toilets were very clean and well maintained (nice for vaulted toilets)," notes one Au Train Lake visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have spotty or non-existent connectivity. "No cell service or starlink under the tree canopy. Fine for a night or two but plan accordingly if you need cell service," warns a visitor at Pictured Rocks RV Park.
Mosquito intensity: Biting insects can be problematic, especially in wooded campgrounds. "Bring bug spray, the mosquitoes are 24/7," advises one camper who stayed at Au Train Lake Campground.
Uneven terrain: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Warning, all the sites were very unlevel!" cautions a camper at Hovey Lake.
Limited shade: Newer campgrounds often lack mature trees. "Open, level gravel sites and some concrete pads scattered throughout this pretty new campground. A few baby trees in the open meadow are trying to get started, but other than those there is no shade," notes a visitor to Pictured Rocks RV Park and Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Superior Times campground provides recreational equipment for children. "The kids had a lot of fun, they have a lot of outdoor toys. There were kids everywhere," shares one visitor to Superior Times.
Educational opportunities: Arrange visits to the Bay Furnace historical site. "The Bay Furnace itself is very interesting and only a short walk from the campsites," mentions a camper.
Shallow water swimming: Some lakes offer safer swimming for children. "Lake is very shallow. Good for kayaking. Not good for fishing or swimming," notes a Hovey Lake visitor, highlighting the importance of checking water conditions.
Book early for summer: Family-friendly sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "This campground is all about what site you can get. I reserved a full hookup/waterfront site and it was amazing," explains a Munising Tourist Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited space for large rigs: Many campgrounds have tight turns or uneven terrain. "We only found 2 pull in sites and took the first one. We were able to back our 26 foot travel trailer in and stay hooked up to it," shares a Hickey Marsh visitor, indicating the limitations for larger vehicles.
Casino parking alternative: The Kewadin Casino offers inexpensive RV parking with electrical hookups. "Sites have electric but no water. Some road noise but that's to be expected. Gas station right next door. Casino closed at 1am. It is actually $20 a night, not $15. You get a free $5 casino credit per night per person staying," explains a visitor to Kewadin Casino.
Plan for water access: Many sites require filling tanks beforehand. "Filled water at dump station. We stayed in site 10 it was quiet and away from the core of the noise," advises a Superior Times camper.
Early/late season considerations: RVers should check opening dates. Most campgrounds in the region operate from mid-May through September, with some extending into October. Weather can change rapidly, especially in spring and fall.
