Top Free Dispersed Camping near Carp Lake, MI
Looking for the best Carp Lake dispersed camping? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Michigan excursion.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Carp Lake, MI (4)
1. Search Bay Dispersed
5 Reviews•25 Photos•105 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
3. USFS 3536 Dispersed Site
2 Reviews•6 Photos•52 SavesDispersed camping is allowed on Hiawatha National Forest lands except developed recreation and administrative sites, campgrounds and designated campsites. The following restrictions apply:
Your stay is limited to 16 days. After this period, your camping equipment and all persons must move to another site at least one mile away, for an additional stay, not to exceed 16 days. Do not block any roads or restrict access to National Forest lands by others. Follow “Leave No Trace” principles (See https://lnt.org/why/7-principles) so that public lands will remain clean and attractive for others to enjoy. Camping in areas posted closed is prohibited. Camping within fifty (50) feet of a body of water is prohibited, unless otherwise posted. (Exceptions include Grand Island National Recreation Area (100 feet from water, cliff edge, private property, trails, other campsites, special use recreation residences or recreation developments) and Big Island Lake Wilderness (200 feet from water). Do not camp at boat launches. On lakes with designated or reservable campsites, you may not set up your campsite within 400 feet of the shoreline anywhere on the lake. Note that camping reservations are required for these lakes: Bass Lake, Bear Lake, Camp Cook, Carr Lake, Chicago Lake, Cookson Lake, Council Lake, Crooked Lake, East Lake, Ewing Point, Gooseneck Lake, lronjaw Lake, Jackpine Lake, Lake Nineteen, Leg Lake, Lyman Lake, McKeever Cabin, Minerva Lake, Mowe Lake, Steuben Lake, Swan Lake, Toms Lake Cabin, and Triangle Lake.
Group size can impact the land. Travel and camp in small groups. Place tents in cleared tent spaces if one is available. If not, find an opening at least 200 feet from water and trails, where understory vegetation or timber will not need to be cut or removed. Please stay at least ¼ mile away from developed campgrounds.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
4. Pigeon River State Forest dispersed camping
Be the first to review!•10 SavesYou may camp for no fee anywhere on state forest land as long as: The area is not posted “No Camping.” You are at least a mile from a designated state forest campground. You are at least 600 ft from the posted sinkhole lakes in the PRC.
- Tents
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Carp Lake
7 Reviews of 4 Carp Lake Campgrounds
Rachel S.
Traveler
Search Bay Dispersed
Great little spot
Ended up with a flat tire from what we assume was leftover trash metal from the campsites but despite that it was beautiful and we got to see the northern lights 😍
- JJaclyn G.Traveler
Search Bay Dispersed
Stunning
Absolutely stunning location! This dispersed campsite offers breathtaking views right on the shoreline. The serenity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable experience. The terrain is slightly rocky, and there’s a constant wind—both to be expected—but it only adds to the rugged charm. Plus, the Verizon cell service was excellent—a cherry on top for staying connected while enjoying nature. Highly recommended!
Robert M.TravelerSearch Bay Dispersed
Your Amenities are Fresh air, Nature, beauty and peace.
I rated it high because it was as promised. Someone who is looking for a campground with bathrooms and showers would be disappointed, but apparently did not read the description.
I had an 18' Thor Scope B class pulling a kayak trailer. I wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail. I did see a vehicle pull one of those boxy 20' camping trailers into a campsite up the road. I was pleased and surprised to find a site I could simply pull into, right on the lake looking out at a million-dollar view of a beautiful bay, with a deep cedar forest on the other side. The soothing sound of what seemed like an almost constant breeze through the cedars was wonderful.
I don't know if it's just that I came at the right time but didn't see a single mosquito in three days, nor was I bothered by any other bug.
There was a 1-3 bar Verizon signal.
Loved this campsite. My thanks to The Dyrt.
- DDavidTraveler
Search Bay Dispersed
Search Bay
Beautiful camp spots right on the lake. I have a 20 foot sprinter. I wouldn’t bring anything much bigger than that in here couldn’t make it to the last two camp spots tree overhang smaller vehicle could’ve made it through again beautiful spot. I’m gonna be here a few days.
Laura M.
Legend
USFS 3536 Dispersed Site
OK for a night
We were a little confused here, as we thought the camping spots were the concrete pads leading up to the old airfield. But there are big rocks blocking the way from Rd 3536 to the airfield, so I don’t know if that’s a recent addition or what. There’s a large concrete pad on the west side of the rocks, and when we got there there was a nice looking (not sketchy) travel trailer set up for long term camping. Lots of trucks parked everywhere with trailers; they had hauled their ATVs in and were out riding for the day. They came back on their ATVs in the late afternoon, hung out for a few hours, then left (except for the trailer). All surprisingly quiet and respectful.
Zero cell service with Verizon but ATT had good service, mostly. It would randomly drop now and then but it would come back. We found a good spot to tuck into for the night, while staying out of the way of all the trucks parked everywhere. Very quiet and serene.
This is dispersed camping so of course no amenities whatsoever. Please handle your waste appropriately and let's keep this area clean.
- Laura M.Legend
Search Bay Dispersed
Perfect Dispersed Camping
Really cool dispersed camping area along the water. There are lots of sites right on the water shore, which we sadly could not make it to. These would be good for tents, or maybe vans/ truck campers. Scope out the road and proceed as you feel comfortable.
The trees are really overgrown and low hanging, and there were lots of pot holes and mud holes when we were there. Definitely no place for our 26ft class c. There are two sites before you reach the river shore road, maybe three if you want to squeeze into a littler spot, and those are nice and big for RVs, and clear and open for solar panels, but were taken when we went. So we went a mile back up the road to a little pullout along a lake that looked like it was cleared out a bit and stayed there for two wonderful relaxing peaceful nights.
Some road traffic from people going to the bay, but the road condition is such that everyone was going really slowly, so that was nice. Road going in was doable, but you’d definitely need to take it slow because of all the potholes and dips. We did have cell service, though it wasn’t the greatest (Verizon & ATT).
Nice peaceful area to hang out right at the water. Bugs weren’t too bad, mostly bumble bees going about their business. Biting flies did bite through my socks though.
Victoria K.
ScoutUSFS 3536 Dispersed Site
ORV trails
These are sandy trails that lead nowhere in particular and I guess you camp on the side in the trees..you can't get down there with a regular vehicle without the possibilty of getting stuck in sand traps. I would say you should have 4 wheel drive and a tent.
Guide to Carp Lake
Camping near Carp Lake, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.
What to do:
- Explore the beaches: Many campers love the beautiful beaches nearby. One reviewer mentioned, "The beach was beautiful, the water clear, and just a short drive from Mackinaw City!" at Wilderness State Park Camping.
- Hiking and biking: There are great trails for hiking and biking. A visitor at Young State Park Campground said, "The beach is long and sandy and there are lots of hiking and biking trails."
- Visit Mackinac Island: Take a ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island. One camper noted, "This KOA provides you information for Shepler’s Ferry," at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA.
What campers like:
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate clean restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Straits State Park Campground said, "The bathroom and shower facilities were nice and clean!"
- Friendly staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA shared, "Staff was courteous & efficient."
- Great views: Campers love the scenic views. A visitor at Petoskey State Park Campground said, "The dunes are incredible to wander around and enjoy a beautiful sunset from."
What you should know:
- Crowded campsites: Some campgrounds can get pretty busy. A reviewer at Wilderness State Park Camping mentioned, "The spots were pretty much on top of one another."
- Early check-in rules: If you plan to arrive early, be aware that some parks have strict check-in times. One camper noted, "Don’t try to arrive early and get in. They don’t allow early entry," at Wilderness State Park Camping.
- Limited privacy: Some sites are close together, which might not suit everyone. A visitor at Magnus Park Campground said, "The sites are quite close together."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly parks: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. A reviewer at Burt Lake State Park Campground said, "Wonderful campground that is great for the family."
- Plan for beach days: Kids love the beach! One camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area."
- Check for nearby attractions: Look for campgrounds close to fun attractions. A visitor at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA noted, "There are great places to ride bikes outside of the campground."
Tips from RVers:
- Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA mentioned, "The sites are tight, particularly the inside pull-throughs."
- Look for full hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Straits State Park Campground said, "Nice facilities. Campsite not very private."
- Be prepared for weather: Some sites can get muddy in rain. A visitor at Straits State Park Campground warned, "The site soon became a mud hole due to the rain."
Camping near Carp Lake, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Carp Lake, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Carp Lake, MI is Search Bay Dispersed with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Carp Lake, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Carp Lake, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.