Dispersed camping near Dollar Bay, Michigan requires preparation for a remote outdoor experience in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Sites range from undeveloped shoreline spots to basic state forest campgrounds scattered throughout the Keweenaw Peninsula region. Most areas sit at elevations between 600-1,200 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-75°F and winter temperatures often below freezing with significant snowfall.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Lake Perrault provides calm waters ideal for paddling. One camper noted about the lake, "My fiancé and I (plus our dog) are doing a week of traveling out of our sprinter van through the UP. We stumbled upon this location through this app."
Rock collecting: Search for Yooperlite rocks near Keweenaw Peninsula High Rock Bay. These rocks contain fluorescent minerals that glow under UV light. A visitor shared, "The air is cool and crisp, the water is crashing against the rocky shoreline, there are tiny little mountains with tiny little trees."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer fishing for various species. At Craig Lake State Park Campground, one camper reported, "The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many campers value the privacy available at sites like Lake Perrault. A reviewer mentioned, "I spent an overnight in this beautiful place. I was all alone in the campground. A few people drove down to the water while I was there."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Big Lake State Forest Campground, a camper observed, "Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning."
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Emily Lake State Forest Campground, a camper appreciated the "Great view down a small hill at the back of the site."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas have rough access roads. For High Rock Bay, a camper advised, "DO NOT BRING A STANDARD CAR DOWN HERE! Road was incredibly rough and no cell service."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. At Lake Perrault, one camper reported, "Few fire pits and no bathroom, worked well for a night."
Weather preparedness: Weather changes quickly in the Upper Peninsula. A visitor to Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness commented on the area's remoteness: "This patch of wilderness within the Ottawa National Forest is unmatched. I didn't think I was in the Midwest."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established campgrounds for easier family camping. One camper at Schoolcraft Township Rustic Campground recommended the site layout: "Campsites are located just behind the beach with a small hill affording a tiny bit of protection from the wind."
Hiking options: Several family-friendly trails exist throughout the region. A visitor to Craig Lake State Park noted, "North Country Trail skirts the lake and there are additional trails that branch on and off it, including trails that go all the way around."
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming spots at state forest campgrounds. At Big Lake State Forest Campground, a camper mentioned, "The lake was nice and there was a small beach."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas are not suitable for large RVs. At Lake Perrault, a camper observed, "There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as many sites are not level. One RVer noted about the best tent camping near Dollar Bay, "This is a bit of a drive from the main road so maybe reflect on the logging before heading over."
Seasonal access: Some campgrounds have limited seasonal availability. A visitor to High Rock Bay cautioned, "Make sure to check the weather before you go. If it had rained overnight, I probably wouldn't have been able to make it out."
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