Dispersed camping sites around Iron River, Michigan primarily cluster in the Ottawa National Forest on the Wisconsin side of the state border. The area features numerous small lakes with sandy beaches suitable for swimming and paddling. Most sites in this region have elevation between 1,500-1,700 feet with typical summer temperatures ranging from 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Indian Lake offers access to calm waters perfect for kayaking and canoeing. A reviewer notes, "The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible. Many hiking opportunities are nearby."
Wildlife viewing: Wolf Lake Campsite provides exceptional bird watching. One camper shared, "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach."
Hiking access: Numerous trails connect the dispersed sites. A visitor to FR 2140 reported, "There is hiking trail access from campsite, but no water access to butternut lake. There is access down the road."
What campers like
Sandy beaches: Woodbury Lake Campsite features natural swimming areas. According to a review, "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling."
Quiet fishing: Several lakes offer no-motor fishing opportunities. At Wolf Lake, one camper mentioned, "Stayed two nights in September it was quiet fishing was so so."
Secluded settings: Many sites provide private lake access with minimal neighbors. At Indian Lake, a visitor appreciated that it offers a "Single site on small lake."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful navigation. A reviewer of Bose Lake Campsite warned, "Single campsite on small lake. Room for small camper in parking less than 15 foot. Road to get in is narrow and pot holed."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is sparse throughout the area. One camper at FR 2140 noted, "Did get one bar of cell (cricket) full with 20 foot ant."
Seasonal considerations: Road conditions vary dramatically by season. A visitor commented, "I've been through here in summer and the road is gravel very dusty from traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Woodbury Lake Campsite offers child-friendly water recreation. A reviewer noted, "Nice spot to camp can fit trailer in parking area. There are two picknick tables and fire ring. Tent spot by lake boat access."
Motor restrictions: Several lakes prohibit motorized watercraft. At Harriet Lake, a camper mentioned, "On small lake has fire ring and picknick table. No motor lake."
Simple amenities: Most sites offer basic facilities. At Harriet Lake Campsite, a visitor noted, "Room for small camper 10 to 15 foot also tents wilderness toilet."
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking: Wolf Lake Campsite accommodates modest-sized RVs. One camper shared, "I had 8 foot pop up could fit a 20 footer easy or tent camp."
Size limitations: Most free camping near Iron River, Michigan restricts larger RVs due to access roads. At Harriet Lake, a reviewer specified, "Room for small camper 10 to 15 foot."
Winter camping options: Some dispersed sites remain accessible year-round. A winter visitor to FR 2140 reported, "Winter camped here, was a nice spot pic nik table, fire ring, wilderness toilet."
