Best Dispersed Camping near Covington, MI

Dispersed camping near Covington, Michigan encompasses public lands in both Michigan's Upper Peninsula and nearby Wisconsin. The Ottawa National Forest contains numerous primitive sites at elevations ranging between 1,500-1,800 feet, with most experiencing temperatures that drop into the 40s during summer nights. Rustic sites typically feature cleared areas in mixed hardwood and pine forests with minimal amenities and varying water access.

What to do

Paddling opportunities: Two Sisters Lake Dispersed Campsite offers a quiet paddling experience on a smaller lake. One camper at Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping noted, "Easy to find, beautiful area, lots of room, porta potties, direct lake access."

Winter camping: The area provides year-round camping options with different seasonal experiences. A visitor to FR 2140 Dispersed off Hidden Lakes Trail reported, "Winter camped here, was a nice spot pic nik table, fire ring, wilderness toilet. There is hiking trail access from campsite."

Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunities to spot local wildlife including deer, black bears, and various bird species. A camper at Mouth of the Huron mentioned, "Got to see a beautiful sunset and sunrise fun to watch bikers cross from the river and even saw a sea plane land on the beach."

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer significant space between camping spots. At Indian Lake, "The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. It's intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area. Many hiking opportunities are nearby."

Limited cell service: While some may view this as a drawback, many campers appreciate the digital detox. A Mouth of the Huron camper mentioned that their "only 'complaint' would be no service, but given how amazing the site is it felt more like a blessing."

Waterfront access: Direct lake or river frontage is available at several sites. At Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite, "Two sites on lake some distance apart. Sand bottom on shore, picknick table and fire ring. No fee for camping can stay 14 days."

What you should know

Variable road conditions: Access roads often deteriorate seasonally. At Lake Perrault, a camper advised: "The road in is AWFUL. But slow driving is the cure for that."

Long-term occupancy: Some sites may have semi-permanent campers during peak season. A Lake Perrault visitor observed, "A couple of the campers looked like they're long-termers, but there was still plenty of room."

Local traffic patterns: Expect increased activity on weekends and during summer months. One Lake Perrault camper noted, "Though 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."

Tips for camping with families

Small lake options: Several sites offer safer swimming and fishing for children. A camper at McKinley Lake Dispersed reported, "A single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake."

Site selection timing: Arrive mid-week for better site availability during summer months. At Mouth of the Huron, "I went on a weekend and there were lots of people and kids. Most of the people left Sunday afternoon and the weekday seems to not be as bad with people."

Bring all necessities: No services or stores exist near most sites. A Robinson Lake visitor noted, "No fee for camping can stay 14 days," highlighting the remote nature requiring self-sufficiency.

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Harriet Lake Campsite, there's "Room for small camper 10to 15 foot also tents wilderness toilet. No motor lake."

Sand hazards: Beach camping presents traction challenges. A Mouth of the Huron visitor warned, "Awkward parking on shifting sands... makes it very difficult for larger vehicles, such as my 16,000-pound bus. I did manage to park it, though. In the dark."

Road clearance concerns: Forest roads often have significant obstacles. A camper at Bose Lake Campsite reported, "Single campsite on small lake. Room for small camper in parking less than 15 foot. Fire ring and picknick table. Road to get in is narrow and pot holed."