Multiple pull-offs along a forest service road provide dispersed camping options between two lakes in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite sits at the end of a rough access road that requires clearing occasional fallen trees, particularly during off-season visits.
The road itself serves as the main camping corridor, with several spots available for setting up camp before reaching the designated site at the terminus. This designated area includes a picnic table and fire ring, operating under a permitted system from May through September on a first-come, first-served basis. Two boat launches near the road's end offer additional parking and camping space for those seeking lake access. Campers report encountering minimal vehicle traffic—typically just a couple cars per day—since the road dead-ends at the camping area.
Cell service remains unavailable throughout the area, and GPS coordinates can prove challenging for first-time visitors. Ben L. notes the site is "located between two lakes" with easy access to both water bodies from the camping areas. The remote location means no facilities beyond basic toilets, though campfires and pets are permitted.
For those exploring the broader region, free camping around Hiawatha National Forest offers additional dispersed options. The site works best for campers comfortable with primitive conditions and uncertain road access.
Description
Ironjaw Lake is located in the heart of the Ironjaw Semi-Primitive Area, which is managed for both motorized and non-motorized uses. Our management efforts seek to provide for quiet, peaceful recreation opportunities in a semi-primitive setting. The campsite is also located on the trail system of the non-motorized Pine Marten Run Trail, which is open to hiking, mountain biking and horse back riding. The campsite at Ironjaw is a pull-through site that also features a tent pad situated on a hill overlooking Lake Nineteen. This site is suitable for only one family with a small trailer. There is limited turnaround space. A primitive toilet is located across the road. There is no drinking water available at this site. The swimming area is poor. The boat access to Ironjaw Lake (62 acres) is down a steep hill but the surface is firm. Turn-around and back-in space at the base of the hill is very limited however, and 4 wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Parking is restricted to a small area located at the top of the hill. Ironjaw Lake is one of the better fishing lakes in the area. Crappie fishing is excellent in the spring. The lake also contains northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill and bullheads. Horse camping is allowed at Ironjaw Lake.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsIronjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite is located in Michigan near Wetmore
Directions
From the Intersection of US-2 and Forest Highway 13 (about 14 miles east of Rapid River) drive north 18.7 miles on Highway 13 to County Road 440. Turn right (east) on CR 440 and drive 4.6 miles to FR 2733. Turn left (north) and drive 1.3 miles to the parking area.
Coordinates
46.15816437 N
86.55515882 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 43 min from Green Bay, WI
- 3 hrs 3 min from Appleton, WI
- 3 hrs 54 min from Wausau, WI
- 4 hrs 12 min from Traverse City, MI
