Dispersed camping near Garden, Michigan offers primitive sites within the Hiawatha National Forest's 880,000 acres of public land. The region sits on Michigan's Upper Peninsula between Lakes Michigan and Superior at elevations between 600-1,000 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75°F and winters dipping below freezing. Several unmarked forest roads provide access to remote camping locations where self-sufficiency is essential due to limited services.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: Horse enthusiasts visiting the Upper Peninsula can access miles of forest trails directly from Jack Pine Lodge and Campground. "There is direct trail access from the property, and they provide a free ORV hand washing station and air for tires," notes Erika P. The campground caters to riders with specific amenities designed for trail use.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for bass and other freshwater species on local rivers and lakes. "The river is a great place for catching bass," mentions Lauren about Cedar River North. Ironjaw Lake provides another fishing spot with Shawn T. noting the area has "two different boat launches with room to park/camp."
Dark sky viewing: The Upper Peninsula offers exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. At St. James Township Campground on Beaver Island, Mike M. explains, "Beaver Island is a designated dark sky area and I've seen the aurora multiple times." Bring binoculars and red-filtered flashlights for optimal night sky observation.
What campers like
Peaceful locations: Many campers value the quiet, remote settings available near Garden. At Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, Ben L. describes it as a "Great site located between two lakes," adding it's "the end of the road though so no one was driving too fast." The lack of crowds creates a more natural experience.
Wildlife encounters: The region's forests and waterways support diverse wildlife viewing. At Cedar River North, Lauren notes, "You can hear birds and squirrels chattering, coyotes call to each other in the early morning across the river, and lots of little critters scurrying about." These natural encounters add to the camping experience.
Water access: Many campsites offer direct water access for recreation. Mike from St. James Township explains his favorite activity: "My favorite thing to do is paddle my kayak out into the bay, anchor up, and sit for hours in the gentle waves reading a book." Similar opportunities exist at several area lakes and rivers.
What you should know
Remote locations: Many camping areas require driving on unpaved forest roads. Christopher L. describes Cedar River North as "8 miles down an old logging trail but it's worth the drive." These roads may present challenges during wet weather or for low-clearance vehicles.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping locations lack modern facilities. At Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping, Kevin D. clarifies that sites "don't have any of the hookups or amenities mentioned on the site profile - some do have rudimentary fire pits though." Bring all necessary supplies including water.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, especially during summer months. Amy Y. warns about Hickey Marsh: "I would warn though that the mosquitoes were pretty bad when we visited." Pack insect repellent, protective clothing, and consider screen shelters for eating areas.
Tips for camping with families
Island adventures: For a unique family experience, consider Washington Island Campground accessible via ferry. Mary H. shares, "The island itself is lovely with lots to do and see. Restaurants and little grocery store that has everything you'd need. Taking the ferry was really fun and unique!"
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with natural play spaces rather than traditional playgrounds. Mary H. notes, "The playground and mini golf weren't in great condition but my kids loved traipsing around in the woods better anyway. We found lots of wildlife but the best was cute little tree frogs!"
Trip timing: For families, consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and bugs. Connor M. advises, "The weather was great at the end of Aug; not too hot and not chilly, very comfortable for tent camping." September camping can provide similar benefits with Hunter W. noting "bugs were minimal" during early fall.
Tips for RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site dimensions carefully. At Catchin' Crickets Campground, Arash F. notes, "Clean, sites are level. I was charged $45 for a site with electricity." The campground offers reasonable spacing between sites but limited shade.
Accessibility considerations: Large rigs face limitations at most forest campsites. Naomi L. at Hickey Marsh advises, "We pulled in a 15 foot trailer and turned it around but wouldn't go much bigger." Jack Pine Lodge offers better big rig access with Kelly G. reporting success with a "42' fifth wheel" after ferry transport.
Utility availability: Most dispersed sites lack hookups, so come prepared for dry camping. Tim at Hickey Marsh explains, "We were able to back our 26 foot travel trailer in and stay hooked up to it," demonstrating that smaller trailers can access some primitive sites while remaining attached to vehicles for shorter stays.
