Dispersed camping near Harbor Springs, Michigan offers primitive sites throughout Michigan's state forests and public lands. The Pigeon River State Forest contains nearly 100,000 acres with sandy soil and mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 900-1200 feet. Sites typically sit near small lakes, streams or along forest roads with seasonal accessibility depending on road conditions and weather patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several dispersed camping areas provide direct water access for fishing. At Castle Rock Ponds, campers report successful catches. "Good fishing in pond, caught a trout," notes a visitor who stayed in a 26-foot Winnebago.
Waterfront relaxation: Many sites offer shoreline access for swimming and paddling. "The bay is calm and beach nice," writes a camper about Search Bay Dispersed. Seasonal considerations affect water activities, with fall offering more solitude. "I was there in October, so I don't know what it would be like in warmer weather. I had the place to myself on a Saturday," reports another visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Harbor Springs contain diverse wildlife populations. One camper at De Cheau Lake Camping describes being "blessed by the Elk bugles nearby" during their stay, adding that the site "feels more remote than it really is" despite being relatively accessible.
What campers like
Seasonal timing: Spring and fall camping near Harbor Springs offers fewer crowds and insects. "We came in Mid September, the weather was still warm but 60/70. No bathrooms or hook ups, but perfect for tent or car campers," writes a visitor to Castle Rock Ponds.
Waterfront sites: Many dispersed areas offer direct lake access with minimal development. At Carp River Boat Launch, a camper describes the experience as "secluded feeling and peaceful! Just parked off to the side of the road near the boat launch and had a view of the water!"
Natural surroundings: The forested environment creates immersive camping experiences. At Mackinac Trail Spur Site, one visitor describes a "beautiful area that has flowers blooming. The monarch butterflies are dancing on them. You travel down a sand road but then turn left in a grassy area."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites require careful navigation. At Carp River Boat Launch, a reviewer warns "the road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that!" Castle Rock offers better access with "a nice gravel road that any kind of car could make it down."
Seasonal bug pressure: Insect activity varies dramatically by season. Multiple visitors mention mosquitoes as a significant consideration. "The mosquitos were pretty bad but what do you expect in the UP in July," notes one camper at Castle Rock Ponds, while another visitor in August mentioned, "I must have had a good night as the bugs were at a minimum."
Variable site conditions: Most dispersed sites lack formal boundaries. "Tons of sites here and most are easily accessible with just about any car. Unfortunately it's quite popular and there's lots of trash in some areas," reports a camper at Search Bay Dispersed. Visitor density changes seasonally: "Great sites here (so many to choose from all across the water). Each have their own fire pits. We are here in late April so with the chilly weather there isn't a soul in site."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation pass requirements: Some rustic camping sites near Harbor Springs require permits. At De Cheau Lake Camping, a visitor notes: "Posted on Southern entrance: Michigan Rec Passport Required." Always check current regulations before setting up camp.
Campfire preparation: Most dispersed sites contain informal fire rings established by previous visitors. Bring your own firewood and always observe seasonal fire restrictions. "Each site has its own fire pit and picnic table," mentions a camper about Goose Creek Trail Camp.
Water access considerations: Some sites offer water activities suitable for families. Goose Creek provides "river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river," which one visitor found helpful for their horse's first water experience, noting how "the stairs made it easier for him."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limits: Most dispersed camping areas have informal parking areas with limited space. "We were in a 26' Winnebago View" reports a visitor to Castle Rock Ponds who found navigating the area manageable. Another camper advises, "a couple people were here with moderate sized RVs."
Level parking availability: Finding level spots for larger vehicles requires planning. One camper at Search Bay Dispersed had "an 18' Thor Scope B class pulling a kayak trailer. I wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail. I did see a vehicle pull one of those boxy 20' camping trailers into a campsite up the road."
Overnight parking strategy: For RVers seeking quick overnight stops, some locations offer convenient options. "Just minutes off of 75 down a well maintained gravel road are the Castle Rock ponds. Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs," notes one visitor who found the area suitable for multiple vehicles.
