Best Dispersed Camping near Covington, MI

Dispersed camping near Covington, Michigan centers around several primitive sites on public lands, particularly along Lake Superior and inland lakes in the region. The Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping area provides beach camping directly on Lake Superior, while Lake Perrault offers lakeside dispersed sites. Additional options extend into nearby Wisconsin, where the Ottawa National Forest contains several small lake access points with primitive camping, including Robinson Lake, McKinley Lake, Three Johns Lake, Bose Lake, and Harriet Lake dispersed sites.

Access roads to most dispersed sites require careful navigation due to rough conditions. Lake Perrault's access road features significant potholes requiring slow driving, though standard vehicles can reach most sites. The Mouth of the Huron area has gravel road access without clearance issues or 4WD requirements. Most Wisconsin forest sites have narrow, potholed roads that may challenge larger vehicles. Camping is permitted for up to 14 days at Robinson Lake and likely other forest service sites. Most areas lack amenities, with only a few sites offering fire rings, picnic tables, or wilderness toilets. "The road to the lake isn't paved and there are huge potholes so go slow," noted one Lake Perrault visitor.

These primitive camping areas provide direct access to water bodies, making them popular for fishing and paddling. The Mouth of the Huron site offers camping directly on Lake Superior's sand beach with spectacular sunrises and sunsets. "Awesome spot right on the waters of Lake Superior. Absolutely gorgeous sunsets and sunrises," reported one camper. Lake Perrault features approximately six cleared spots with fire pits, some directly at the water's edge. Wisconsin forest sites typically include single campsites on small lakes, often with fire rings and occasionally picnic tables. Most locations remain relatively quiet during weekdays, though Lake Perrault sees regular local traffic. Cell reception varies by location, with Lake Perrault offering good Verizon and AT&T coverage, while the Mouth of the Huron area has limited to no service.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Covington, Michigan (10)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Covington, MI

21 Photos of 10 Covington Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Covington, MI

20 Reviews of 10 Covington Campgrounds


  • Zachary J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2022

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    On Lake Superior need I say more

    You camp on the sand first come first serve, loved it no facilities pure dispersed.

  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite

    Nice secluded spot

    Two sites on lake some distance apart. Sand bottom on shore, picknick table and fire ring. No fee for camping can stay 14 days.

  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Three Johns Lake Dispersed

    Walk in campsite

    Tents only. Short walk to campsite only one on lake. 5 dollar parking national Forest.

  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com
    Jan. 10, 2025

    FR 2140 Dispersed off Hidden Lakes Trail

    Nice Spot in National forest

    Winter camped here, was a nice spot pic nik table, fire ring, wilderness toilet. There is hiking trail access from campsite,but no water access to butternut lake or it would have been 5 star. There is access down the road.Did get one bar of cell (cricket) full with 20 foot ant. Note I've been through here in summer and the road is gravel very dusty from traffic.

  • Shawnee ..
    Feb. 5, 2022

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    Rustic beauty!

    One of my absolute favorite places to camp on Lake Superior. Rustic and beautiful. Carry in, carry out. Respect the land and space for those who have been enjoying this land for years and wish to for many more. Visit to see for yourself!

  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com
    Aug. 4, 2024

    McKinley Lake Dispersed

    McKinley lake camp site

    A single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 14, 2023

    Lake Perrault

    Free dispersed

    Nice small lake, easy access from the main road. Road to the lake isn’t paved and there are huge potholes so go slow. A couple of the campers looked like they’re long-termers, but there was still plenty of room. 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. 

    There’s also a little trail by the water but the mosquitoes were too bad for me to try and hike it. 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. 

    There was a little road noise but not bad at all. Some interesting animal calls overnight as well. There was good cell reception for Verizon and ATT.

  • Pat F.
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Lake Perrault

    Great little overlook of the lake

    Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill , quite too, fire pit made of rocks


Guide to Covington

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Covington, Michigan, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of spots available, you can find the perfect place to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Idyllic Spots for Relaxation While Free Camping Near Covington

  • Experience the tranquility of Lake Perrault, where you can set up camp with a stunning view of the lake from a hilltop. It's a peaceful retreat perfect for those seeking solitude.
  • The Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping offers a unique beach camping experience, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and sunrises right from your tent.
  • For a more secluded experience, check out Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite, which features two sites set apart for privacy, complete with a picnic table and fire ring.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Covington, Michigan

  • When heading to Bose Lake Campsite, be prepared for a narrow, potholed road that requires careful navigation, especially if you're driving a larger vehicle.
  • Always carry out what you bring in; the Three Johns Lake Dispersed area emphasizes a carry-in, carry-out policy to preserve its natural beauty.
  • If you're looking for a spot with good cell reception, McKinley Lake Dispersed is a great choice, allowing you to stay connected while enjoying the wilderness.

Scenic Trails and Wildlife Encounters for Dispersed Campers

  • At Lake Perrault, you can explore nearby trails, although be mindful of mosquitoes during the warmer months.
  • The Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping provides opportunities to witness unique wildlife, including bikers crossing from the river and even the occasional seaplane landing on the beach.
  • Enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature at Harriet Lake Campsite, where you can listen to interesting animal calls while relaxing by the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Covington, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Covington, MI is Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping with a 4.9-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Covington, MI?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Covington, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.