Dispersed camping areas surround Ewen, Michigan within the Ottawa National Forest, providing numerous options for rustic outdoor experiences. Winter temperatures in this region typically range from 0°F to 25°F, while summer averages between 50°F and 80°F. Most primitive camping locations lack formal amenities but offer direct access to small lakes and forest trails.
What to do
Paddling small lakes: Indian Lake offers a secluded paddling experience, with one reviewer noting, "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." Indian Lake prohibits motorized watercraft, creating a peaceful environment for kayakers and canoeists.
Fishing opportunities: For anglers seeking quiet fishing spots, Two Sisters Lake Dispersed Campsite provides good access for both shore and boat fishing. The lake is suitable for small watercraft and typically less crowded than larger water bodies in the region.
Wildlife observation: Several campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. One camper at Lake Perrault 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 commonly seen includes deer, small mammals, and numerous bird species throughout the forested areas.
What campers like
Lakefront access: Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite features "Two sites on lake some distance apart. Sand bottom on shore, picknick table and fire ring. No fee for camping can stay 14 days." This free site arrangement allows campers to enjoy direct water access without crowds.
Rustic amenities: Some dispersed sites near Ewen offer basic amenities despite their remote nature. At Harriet Lake Campsite, campers appreciate that it "has fire ring and picknick table. Room for small camper 10to 15 foot also tents wilderness toilet. No motor lake." These minimal amenities provide basic comfort while maintaining the wilderness experience.
Peaceful atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the quiet environment at most sites. One Lake Perrault visitor shared, "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." The remote locations typically offer significant separation between sites when compared to developed campgrounds.
What you should know
Access challenges: Roads to most primitive camping areas require careful navigation. A reviewer at Bose Lake Campsite noted, "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." Plan extra travel time when accessing these areas.
Limited facilities: No potable water exists at these sites. One camper at Lake Perrault stated, "Few fire pits and no bathroom, worked well for a night." Visitors must bring adequate water supplies and plan for waste management.
Cell coverage variability: Phone service varies significantly between sites. While some areas have reasonable coverage, others remain completely offline. Consider downloading offline maps before traveling to these remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Single-site options: For families seeking privacy, several locations offer completely isolated camping. McKinley Lake Dispersed provides "A single campsite can park next to tent only. Access to lake." This isolation gives families space without neighboring campers.
Swimming considerations: Lakes with sandy shorelines provide better swimming access for children. Several sites feature gradually sloping entry points, though water quality and temperature vary seasonally.
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage reduces wildlife encounters. Keep all food secured when not in active use, especially in areas frequented by bears and other wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only small trailers or vans. At FR 2140, one camper noted, "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." The review mentions, "Did get one bar of cell (cricket) full with 20 foot ant."
Level parking challenges: Many parking areas at these dispersed sites require leveling blocks. Sites rarely feature prepared parking pads, meaning RVers should bring leveling equipment.
Road condition awareness: Access roads deteriorate significantly during spring thaw or after heavy rain. Consider seasonal timing when planning visits with any trailer or RV.
