Primitive camping near Alanson, Michigan concentrates around state forests, water bodies, and remote public lands in the northern Lower Peninsula and nearby Upper Peninsula. Most sites sit at elevations between 600-800 feet, creating varied terrain for camping experiences across different ecosystems. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night, while mosquito activity peaks from June through August.
What to do
Fishing at De Cheau Lake: This remote site provides access to a secluded lake where campers can fish in relative solitude. A visitor noted, "Beautiful lake, blessed by the Elk bugles nearby" while camping at De Cheau Lake Camping.
Beach activities: Many dispersed sites offer lake access for swimming and shoreline exploration during summer months. One camper at Carp River Boat Launch reported, "Easy and easy out on a good gravel road. Access to Lake Huron."
Wildlife observation: The northern Michigan forests host diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and migratory birds. At Mackinac Trail Spur Site, one visitor shared, "It is a beautiful area that has flowers blooming. The monarch butterflies are dancing on them."
Horseback riding: Some areas accommodate equestrian camping with trail access. At Goose Creek Trail Camp, a rider mentioned, "I camp here with my horse - there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the lake and river access points throughout the region. A visitor to Castle Rock Ponds shared, "Good fishing in pond, caught a trout. We stayed for two nights."
Accessibility from major routes: Several dispersed sites offer convenient access despite their remote feel. One camper at Castle Rock Ponds noted, "Easy to get to camping spot with multiple camping sites overlooking ponds. A couple miles down a nice gravel road that any kind of car could make it down."
Seasonal opportunities: Off-season camping provides unique experiences with fewer crowds. A camper visiting Carp River Boat Launch in September mentioned, "Labor Day weekend and no one else is here except the ubiquitous mosquitoes."
Free or low-cost options: Most dispersed sites have minimal or no fees. A review from De Cheau Lake Camping clarified permit requirements: "Posted on Southern entrance: Michigan Rec Passport Required."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires navigating unpaved roads of varying quality. A recent visitor to Search Bay Dispersed explained, "There's a good road that leads to the shore road that isn't terrible. My 2wd Tacoma had no issue."
Insect presence: Mosquitoes can be abundant, particularly in wooded areas and during summer months. A camper at Search Bay Dispersed warned, "If you go there it's mostly cedar and the swarms of skeeters are pretty bad, we did not stay we moved on just be aware."
Wind exposure: Waterfront sites may experience significant wind. One camper at Search Bay Dispersed observed, "I haven't had any issues with mosquitoes - may be because of the wind (it can blow really strong off the water)."
Campsite cleanliness: Litter can be an issue at some popular sites. A reviewer noted, "Unfortunately it's quite popular and there's lots of trash in some areas."
Restricted camping areas: Some locations have specific rules about where camping is permitted. A visitor to Search Bay Dispersed cautioned, "The USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move."
Tips for camping with families
Visit during shoulder season: For families seeking more solitude, consider early fall camping. A visitor to Mackinac Trail Spur Site mentioned, "It's next to a campground and 15 minutes from the lighthouse and ferry to Macimac Island."
Pack bug protection: Bring adequate insect repellent and protective clothing, especially for evening hours. A Castle Rock Ponds camper advised, "The mosquitos were pretty bad but what do you expect in the UP in July."
Consider site proximity: Some areas offer both dispersed and established campgrounds nearby, allowing flexibility. One camper at Goose Creek Trail Camp described, "Rustic state forest campground located near trails. Each site has its own fire pit and picnic table."
Plan for weather fluctuations: Northern Michigan weather can change rapidly, particularly near water bodies. A camper at Search Bay Dispersed shared, "We came in Mid September, the weather was still warm but 60/70. No bathrooms or hook ups, but perfect for tent or car campers."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for larger units. A reviewer at Castle Rock Ponds reported, "Nice bare bones dispersed camping spot. Decent gravel road leading to it, and easy to navigate to the different spots along the pond (we were in a 26' Winnebago View)."
Parking considerations: Identify level spots before fully committing to a site. One RVer at Carp River Boat Launch shared their strategy: "We drove a 24 ft RV at night to the site and the road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that! Just parked off to the side of the road near the boat launch."
No hookups or services: Come fully self-contained with adequate water and waste capacity. A visitor noted, "Free place to park, no trash, no water, no gray dump."
Multiple site options: Some areas offer several potential spots to accommodate different vehicle sizes. A camper observed, "Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs."
