Primitive camping opportunities near Conway, Michigan include several rustic sites throughout state and national forest lands across Emmet and Cheboygan counties. Most of these dispersed camping locations require visitors to bring all necessary supplies, as amenities are typically limited to established fire rings. Michigan Recreation Passport is required for legal access to many of these backcountry areas, with seasonal conditions affecting accessibility from early spring through late fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Castle Rock Ponds offers productive fishing in multiple small bodies of water. One visitor reported "good fishing in pond, caught a trout" during their stay at this accessible dispersed site.
Beach access: Many rustic camping sites provide direct water access. At Carp River Boat Launch, campers can enjoy Lake Huron shoreline despite some limitations. As one camper noted, "the beach smells like fish, but overall it's pretty nice" for those seeking waterfront camping near Conway.
Wildlife viewing: De Cheau Lake Camping provides opportunities to observe native wildlife including elk. A camper described being "blessed by the Elk bugles nearby" during their stay at this remote-feeling dispersed site located near private residences.
Horseback riding: Goose Creek Trail Camp features equestrian-friendly amenities and river access. A rider reported, "there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river - it was my young horses first time being in the water and the stairs made it easier for him."
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Mackinac Trail Spur Site provides convenient access to regional highlights. One camper appreciated its location, stating it's "next to a campground and 15 minutes from the lighthouse and ferry to Mackinac Island."
Seasonal wildlife: Some sites offer unique natural experiences depending on timing. At Mackinac Trail Spur Site, a visitor described it as a "beautiful area that has flowers blooming. The monarch butterflies are dancing on them."
Ease of access: Many rustic sites near Conway can accommodate various vehicle types. At Castle Rock Ponds, one camper found it "easy to get to camping spot with multiple camping sites overlooking ponds. A couple miles down a nice gravel road that any kind of car could make it down."
Solitude potential: Several dispersed camping areas offer opportunities for seclusion, particularly during off-peak periods. A visitor to Carp River Boat Launch was surprised to find "Labor Day weekend and no one else is here except the ubiquitous mosquitoes. Easy in and easy out on a good gravel road."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites vary significantly. At Carp River Boat Launch, a camper warned "the road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that!"
Insects: Bug activity varies by season and location. At Castle Rock Ponds, a camper reported "the mosquitos were pretty bad but what do you expect in the UP in July." However, at Search Bay Dispersed, one visitor had a different experience, noting "I saw a lot of reviews about mosquitoes, but I haven't had any issues - may be because of the wind (it can blow really strong off the water)."
Noise factors: Some camping areas have unexpected noise sources. At Castle Rock Ponds, a camper reported "both days/nights there were people doing target shooting in the area so there was some pretty loud gunshots, if that's a deal breaker for you, I wouldn't recommend this spot."
Seasonal restrictions: Rules may change throughout the year. At Search Bay Dispersed, a camper noted "the USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move. We switched to one of the spots in the woods right before the welcoming sign."
Tips for camping with families
Consider timing: Certain months offer better conditions for families with children. At Search Bay Dispersed, one camper experienced a surprising lack of pests: "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."
Site selection: Look for areas with established sites away from hazards. At Search Bay Dispersed, a visitor noted "camping on the beach is not permitted, but there are plenty of beautiful campsites overlooking the lake."
Capacity awareness: Popular sites can become crowded during peak seasons. One camper at Search Bay Dispersed observed "Great spot on the lake. A lot of people are set up. Otherwise great location."
Vehicle considerations: Match your transportation to site access requirements. Search Bay Dispersed has variable access conditions, with one visitor advising "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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many rustic sites near Conway have restrictions on larger vehicles. At Search Bay Dispersed, a camper with an "18' Thor Scope B class pulling a kayak trailer" noted they "wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail."
Level parking: Look for sites with flat areas for larger vehicles. A camper at Castle Rock Ponds found "decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs."
Navigation challenges: Roads to primitive sites may present obstacles. One RVer at Castle Rock Ponds reported navigating a "26' Winnebago View" to "different spots along the pond" but noted careful driving was required.
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At Search Bay Dispersed, a camper reported "a 1-3 bar Verizon signal" during their stay, which may be important for RVers needing to stay connected.
