Best Dispersed Camping near Gwinn, MI

Looking for the best campgrounds near Gwinn, MI? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Gwinn camping trip.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Gwinn, Michigan (16)

    1. Lake Superior Beachfront (US Forest Land)

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    74 Saves
    Munising, Michigan

    US National Forest Land borders day-use only land, be cautious of signs and setup camp in the appropriate areas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

    2. Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    18 Photos
    90 Saves
    Escanaba, Michigan

    Dispersed camping is allowed on Hiawatha National Forest lands except developed recreation and administrative sites, campgrounds and designated campsites. The following restrictions apply: Your stay is limited to 16 days. After this period, your camping equipment and all persons must move to another site at least one mile away, for an additional stay, not to exceed 16 days. Do not block any roads or restrict access to National Forest lands by others. Follow “Leave No Trace” principles (See https://lnt.org/why/7-principles) so that public lands will remain clean and attractive for others to enjoy. Camping in areas posted closed is prohibited. Camping within fifty (50) feet of a body of water is prohibited, unless otherwise posted. (Exceptions include Grand Island National Recreation Area (100 feet from water, cliff edge, private property, trails, other campsites, special use recreation residences or recreation developments) and Big Island Lake Wilderness (200 feet from water). Do not camp at boat launches. Permits are required for these sites: Bass Lake, Bear Lake, Camp Cook, Carr Lake, Chicago Lake, Cookson Lake, Council Lake, Crooked Lake, East Lake, Ewing Point, Gooseneck Lake, lronjaw Lake, Jackpine Lake, Lake Nineteen, Leg Lake, Lyman Lake, McKeever Cabin, Minerva Lake, Mowe Lake, Steuben Lake, Swan Lake, Toms Cabin, and Triangle Lake. On lakes with designated campsites, you may not set up your campsite within 400 feet of the shoreline anywhere on the lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    3. Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    29 Saves
    Wetmore, Michigan
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    5. Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    18 Saves
    Wetmore, Michigan

    Ironjaw Lake is located in the heart of the Ironjaw Semi-Primitive Area, which is managed for both motorized and non-motorized uses. Our management efforts seek to provide for quiet, peaceful recreation opportunities in a semi-primitive setting. The campsite is also located on the trail system of the non-motorized Pine Marten Run Trail, which is open to hiking, mountain biking and horse back riding. The campsite at Ironjaw is a pull-through site that also features a tent pad situated on a hill overlooking Lake Nineteen. This site is suitable for only one family with a small trailer. There is limited turnaround space. A primitive toilet is located across the road. There is no drinking water available at this site. The swimming area is poor. The boat access to Ironjaw Lake (62 acres) is down a steep hill but the surface is firm. Turn-around and back-in space at the base of the hill is very limited however, and 4 wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Parking is restricted to a small area located at the top of the hill. Ironjaw Lake is one of the better fishing lakes in the area. Crappie fishing is excellent in the spring. The lake also contains northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill and bullheads. Horse camping is allowed at Ironjaw Lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets

    9. Swan Lake Dispersed Campsite

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    7 Saves
    Wetmore, Michigan

    Swan Lake (52 acres) is the most popular lake in the primitive campsite program, so getting a permit to camp can be quite competitive! All four campsites are located on the non-motorized Pine Marten Run Trail, which is open to hiking, mountain biking and horse back riding. There are three primitive toilets available, but no drinking water. All campsites on Swan Lake have excellent swimming areas. Swan Lake offers a good fishery for large and smallmouth bass, bluegills and pumpkinseeds.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed

    $8 - $16 / night

    10. Mowe Lake - Manistique Rapid River Dispersed

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    10 Saves
    Wetmore, Michigan

    This gorgeous 21 acre lake is nestled down among paper birch, aspen and oak and features one campsite high upon a hill overlooking the lake. A carry-in boat launch is intended to prevent over fishing its excellent brook trout fishery, which is maintained by annual stocking. This campsite is small with a very tight turning radius and is suitable for only one family with a tent or small trailer. Swimming is considered marginal with a thin layer of sand covering a mucky bottom.

    • Dispersed
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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Gwinn, MI

10 Reviews of 16 Gwinn Campgrounds



Guide to Gwinn

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gwinn, Michigan, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Hovey Lake Equine Trailhead

  • This location offers a unique experience with no drinking water available, so be sure to bring your own supplies. Check it out here.
  • Fires are allowed, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars, but remember to bring your own firewood as it is not provided.
  • Pets are welcome, so you can bring your furry friends along to enjoy the trails and natural surroundings.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Gwinn, Michigan

  • Consider visiting Lake Superior Beachfront (US Forest Land), where you can enjoy a stunning view of the lake, but be cautious as there are signs indicating "No Camping" in some areas.
  • If you're looking for a quieter spot, Herman Lake Dispersed is known for its privacy, but be prepared for a challenging drive down a muddy road.
  • For those who prefer a more secluded experience, Coalwood Trail - Dispersed Campsite is free and does not require a permit, but be ready to deal with mosquitoes near the pond.

Enjoy kayaking and fishing while free camping near Gwinn

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gwinn, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gwinn, MI is Lake Superior Beachfront (US Forest Land) with a 2.3-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 16 dispersed camping locations near Gwinn, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.