Best Dispersed Camping near De Tour Village, MI
Search Bay Dispersed offers primitive camping opportunities near De Tour Village in Michigan's eastern Upper Peninsula. This free public land camping area features multiple waterfront sites with established fire rings. Vehicle access requires careful navigation due to overgrown trees and seasonal road conditions. The main access road contains numerous potholes and dips, necessitating slow travel, especially after rain. Vehicles larger than 20 feet face significant challenges reaching shoreline sites.
No amenities exist at Search Bay Dispersed. Campers must pack in all water, supplies, and pack out all waste. Several campers noted the sites closest to the water accommodate tents and smaller vehicles like vans or truck campers, while a few larger clearings farther from shore can fit RVs up to about 20 feet. According to reviews, the terrain near the shoreline is "slightly rocky" with "constant wind" typical of Great Lakes camping.
The area permits campfires in existing fire rings, though visitors should verify current fire restrictions before arrival. Cell service varies throughout the area, with Verizon typically providing 1-3 bars of service. Insect activity fluctuates seasonally; cedar forests harbor significant mosquito populations during warm months. One camper reported "swarms of skeeters" in the cedar areas, while others encountered minimal insects. Biting flies may be present near the water. The bay provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing, with some campers reporting northern lights visibility during clear nights. Proper waste disposal is essential to maintain this natural area and prevent hazards like the metal debris that has caused flat tires for some visitors.
