Best Dispersed Camping near Conway, MI
Dispersed camping near Conway, Michigan includes several primitive sites across state forest lands. The Pigeon River State Forest permits free dispersed camping with no reservations required. Search Bay Dispersed offers waterfront primitive camping along shorelines accessible via forest roads. Additional options include De Cheau Lake Camping, Castle Rock Ponds, and Mackinac Trail sites, all providing backcountry camping experiences on public lands. Most sites lack developed facilities and follow standard dispersed camping regulations.
Access roads to these primitive sites vary considerably in quality and seasonal condition. Search Bay Dispersed features roads with potholes, mud holes, and low-hanging branches that may challenge larger vehicles. According to one visitor, "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." Castle Rock Ponds is more accessible, located "a couple miles down a nice gravel road that any kind of car could make it down." Most sites lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Some areas require a Michigan Recreation Passport for legal access.
These primitive camping areas provide direct access to natural features including lakes, ponds, and forest trails. Search Bay Dispersed is particularly noted for its waterfront locations. One camper described it as having "breathtaking views right on the shoreline." Castle Rock Ponds features multiple camping spots overlooking small bodies of water. Seasonal considerations affect the camping experience, with mosquitoes commonly reported during summer months. Cell service varies by location, with Search Bay Dispersed offering 1-3 bars of Verizon coverage. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, with elk bugling reported near De Cheau Lake. Most sites include established fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally.
