Dispersed camping options abound in the Ottawa National Forest near Alpha, Michigan. The surrounding forested terrain features over 20 small lakes with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer daytime temperatures typically reach the 70s with cool nights in the 50s. Fall brings spectacular color changes to the maple-dominated forests from mid-September to early October.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Indian Lake offers excellent kayaking for beginners and intermediate paddlers. "The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. Many hiking opportunities are nearby," notes Kay K. about Indian Lake.
Swimming access: The sandy beaches at several forest lakes provide natural swimming areas without facilities. A camper at Wolf Lake Campsite mentions, "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
Fishing spots: Most small lakes in the area contain pan fish and some hold larger game fish. Winter ice fishing is popular from December through February when ice thickness permits. At Wolf Lake, one visitor reports, "Stayed two nights in September it was quiet fishing was so so."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Multiple lakes feature campsites with direct water access and minimal neighbor disturbance. According to a camper at Woodbury Lake Campsite, "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling. There is space for a trailer."
Wildlife viewing: Loons, deer, and various bird species are commonly spotted around the lakes. Wolf Lake campers particularly note consistent loon sightings, with one reporting, "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
Off-season solitude: September through May offers significantly reduced visitor numbers at most rustic camping areas near Alpha, Michigan. During winter, some sites remain accessible for cold-weather camping, as one camper noted at FR 2140: "Winter camped here, was a nice spot pic nik table, fire ring, wilderness toilet."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access roads range from paved to deeply rutted dirt tracks. At Bose Lake Campsite, a visitor warns, "Road to get in is narrow and pot holed."
Limited facilities: Most sites provide only basic amenities. At Harriet Lake, a camper reports, "On small lake has fire ring and picknick table. Room for small camper 10to 15 foot also tents wilderness toilet. No motor lake."
Motor restrictions: Several lakes prohibit gas motors or have horsepower limitations. One camper specifically mentions Harriet Lake as a "No motor lake," making it ideal for quiet paddling and fishing.
Tips for camping with families
Sandy beaches: Several lakes feature natural sandy shorelines ideal for children's water play. Kay K. describes Woodbury Lake as having a "sandy beach great for swimming or paddling."
Easy access options: Some sites require minimal walking and feature level ground suitable for family camping. Indian Lake is noted as "just off a paved road making it easily accessible."
Plan for weather changes: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, even in summer. Pack extra layers for children, especially for evenings when temperatures can drop below 50°F even in July and August.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller RVs under 15 feet. At McKinley Lake Dispersed, a camper notes you can "park next to tent only. Access to lake."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as most sites have uneven parking areas. Wolf Lake can "fit a 20 footer easy" according to one camper, but many sites require careful positioning.
Road clearance considerations: High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing most rustic camping near Alpha, Michigan. FR 2140 presents particular challenges: "I've been through here in summer and the road is gravel very dusty from traffic."
