Dispersed camping near Bergland, Michigan provides backcountry access to the Ottawa National Forest and surrounding wilderness areas. The region receives approximately 200 inches of annual snowfall, creating significant seasonal variations in accessibility to remote camping locations. Most primitive sites maintain a natural setting with minimal infrastructure, requiring self-sufficient camping preparation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Perrault offers accessible shore fishing with multiple waterfront sites. "My fiancé and I (plus our dog) are doing a week of traveling out of our sprinter van through the UP. We stumbled upon this location through this app," notes Marissa R. about Lake Perrault.
Waterfall viewing: A short walk from camping areas leads to scenic falls. At Foster Falls, Irvin N. reports, "A short walk down to the waterfall. Quiet and serene, towering trees and only a few mosquitoes."
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse forest wildlife including timber wolves and numerous bird species. Practice appropriate food storage techniques, especially at dusk and dawn when animal activity increases. Michael G. mentions, "Got a bit nervous hearing timber wolves in the distance for a few hours at night then again in the early morning. But we practiced good camp hygiene and they left us alone."
What campers like
Peaceful seclusion: Most sites offer significant distance from developed areas. "I spent an overnight in this beautiful place. I was all alone in the campground. A few people drove down to the water while I was there," shares Chuck M. about his experience at Lake Perrault.
Water access: Many sites feature direct lake or river frontage. At Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite, campers appreciate the natural swimming areas. "Sand bottom on shore, picknick table and fire ring. No fee for camping can stay 14 days," notes hesselinkj@yahoo.com.
Minimal regulations: The 14-day stay limit allows for extended backcountry experiences without reservation requirements. Laura M. explains about Lake Perrault: "It's a dispersed area with some sites with fire pits that are cleared and open for camping, maybe about 6 spots or so. A couple of the spots are right down at the water."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites vary significantly in quality. Pat F. describes Lake Perrault as "Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill," but others note road challenges.
Site availability: Popular dispersed sites fill quickly during peak season. Rose G. warns, "There were 3 different people/groups set-up, all of which looked to have been there for several weeks. The area in front of the lake is completely cleared and fairly large. I saw an additional 3 other vehicles drive in and proceed to exit, so it's unlikely you'd find solitude here."
Local traffic patterns: Some sites serve dual purposes for campers and day visitors. Marsha Y. found Foster Falls to be "the most relaxing, peaceful, enjoyable campsite," despite potential visitors to the falls.
Tips for camping with families
Lost and found awareness: Keep track of personal items at primitive sites without staff. Mason V. notes about Lake Perrault: "Few fire pits and no bathroom, worked well for a night. Believe we left a small stuffed squirrel there, if it's found let me know, it's a sort of family heirloom."
Visitor interactions: Be prepared for other campers and local visitors. Laura M. observed at Lake Perrault: "This is definitely a local hangout, with trucks coming in and out almost all day and late into the night, everyone was respectful and quiet, and it was really nice and peaceful overnight."
Pet considerations: Leash requirements vary by location and neighbor preference. One camper reported challenging interactions regarding off-leash pets, noting: "It was a problem to play fetch with our dog not being on a leash. Our dog was staying in our camp and playing fetch away from others. So we decided to pack up camp due to the interaction."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas accommodate smaller vehicles only. Chuck M. advises about Lake Perrault: "There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents."
Road navigation: Allow extra travel time for unpaved access roads. "The road in is AWFUL. But slow driving is the cure for that," reports one camper about getting to primitive camping areas near Bergland.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. Laura M. confirms, "There was good cell reception for Verizon and ATT" at Lake Perrault, providing a safety connection for those requiring communication access.
