Dispersed camping opportunities near Au Train, Michigan exist predominantly within the 898,000-acre Hiawatha National Forest. This area features a mix of hardwood forests, small lakes, and wetlands with elevations ranging from 600-1,300 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with significant snowfall, while summer days typically reach 70-80°F with cool nights.
What to do
Kayaking between lakes: At Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, campers can paddle on two connected bodies of water. "Great site located between two lakes," notes Ben L., who adds that because "access to both lakes is near the camp site, we did encounter vehicles driving by, maybe 2 a day."
Wildlife observation: The forest roads and trails provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. One camper at Hickey Marsh reported hearing "a pack of coyotes at one point and pretty sure I heard some sort of padfooted animal walk by my site once or twice."
Snowmobiling in winter: Some camping areas serve dual purposes throughout the year. The Adams Trail Dirt Lot transforms seasonally, as Nikki V. explains: "It is a snow mobile parking lot. Ideal for camper vans, or car camping. Close enough to Pictured rocks."
What campers like
Privacy with vehicle access: Many dispersed sites balance remoteness with reasonable access. "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," reports Hunter W. about Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, adding that "cell service with Verizon was shockingly good."
Off-season solitude: Visiting during shoulder seasons offers additional advantages. At Ironjaw Lake, Willow M. shares: "We were lucky, we went pre-season. We did have to clear a bunch of down trees to get down the road but we had the site and the lakes to ourselves."
Flat terrain for tents: The natural geography provides suitable camping surfaces. According to Kevin D., sites at Hickey Marsh "are fairly spacious" and the "ground is flat enough to comfortably tent camp."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest roads can present challenges for certain vehicles. At Herman Lake Dispersed, Suzanne C. reports: "We went down a very deeply rutted and muddy one lane road in for about 1.5-2 miles. We have a 21 ft travel trailer. Although we stayed one night and made it to and from unscathed, we do not recommend towing down this road."
Insect populations fluctuate: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain locations. Amy Y. warns about Hickey Marsh: "This is a great spot, very private and easy to access. T-Mobile cell services was very good. I would warn though that the mosquitoes were pretty bad when we visited."
Beachfront camping restrictions: Recent regulations have eliminated some previously popular options. Rachel S. notes about Lake Superior Beachfront: "There is signs posted just about everywhere 'no camping or overnight parking' don't waste your time."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some dispersed areas offer easier access than others. Naomi L. recommends Hickey Marsh for families: "Just want an overnight stay and are self contained it's perfect. We pulled in a 15 foot trailer and turned it around but wouldn't go much bigger."
Consider site proximity to water: While waterfront camping offers recreation opportunities, it comes with considerations. Brad W. cautions about Coalwood Trail - Dispersed Campsite: "Tons of mosquitos right next to a small danky pond."
Plan for services gap: Free camping near Au Train requires self-sufficiency. At Adams Trail Dirt Lot, Laura M. reports: "Nothing in this lot other than a large pile of crushed rock and an old orange contraption that looks like a street sweeper. Lot was clean (no trash)... No other amenities, so let's help keep it clean."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations apply: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Tim notes about Hickey Marsh: "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."
Weather considerations: Monitor forecasts carefully when bringing trailers to remote sites. At Dispersed Camping Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead, RVers report that rain can quickly deteriorate road conditions, potentially stranding larger vehicles on muddy forest roads.
Cell service for navigation: Connectivity varies dramatically between sites. Shawn T. notes about Ironjaw Lake: "No service with mint," while at other locations, campers report adequate service for navigation apps.
