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Best Dispersed Camping near Keweenaw Bay, MI

16 Reviews

The Keweenaw Bay area in Michigan's Upper Peninsula features two notable dispersed camping locations: Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping and Lake Perrault. These primitive sites are situated on public land where camping requires permits but generally allows campfires. Mouth of the Huron provides beachfront camping on Lake Superior with toilet facilities, while Lake Perrault offers lakeside camping in a more secluded forest setting. Both locations support tent camping with minimal amenities and follow standard dispersed camping regulations.

Access roads to these sites present variable conditions that may challenge some vehicles. The road to Lake Perrault contains significant potholes requiring slow navigation, though it remains accessible without specialized vehicles. Most camping spots at both locations are suitable for tents, with only a few areas at Lake Perrault accommodating small travel trailers. Neither location offers drinking water, electrical hookups, or trash service. Visitors must pack out all waste and prepare for self-sufficient camping with no formal amenities beyond basic pit toilets at Mouth of the Huron.

Both camping areas provide distinctive natural experiences that draw visitors seeking primitive outdoor settings. Mouth of the Huron delivers direct Lake Superior beach access with opportunities to witness both sunrises and sunsets over the water. The location also accommodates pets and allows alcohol consumption. Lake Perrault offers a quieter inland lake experience with several established fire rings and cleared camping areas. Visitors note the area's peaceful atmosphere despite occasional traffic from locals. According to one camper, "There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents." Another visitor described Mouth of the Huron as "rustic and beautiful. Carry in, carry out."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Keweenaw Bay, Michigan (3)

    1. Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Skanee, MI
    21 miles

    "You camp on the sand first come first serve, loved it no facilities pure dispersed."

    "Easy gravel road access ,no clearance issues or 4wd needed."

    2. Lake Perrault

    6 Reviews
    Toivola, MI
    17 miles

    "Nice small lake, easy access from the main road. Road to the lake isn’t paved and there are huge potholes so go slow."

    "Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill , quite too, fire pit made of rocks"

    3. Thayer's Lake

    Be the first to review!
    Mohawk, MI
    31 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Keweenaw Bay, MI

25 Photos of 3 Keweenaw Bay Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Keweenaw Bay, MI

16 Reviews of 3 Keweenaw Bay Campgrounds

  • Zachary J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2022

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    On Lake Superior need I say more

    You camp on the sand first come first serve, loved it no facilities pure dispersed.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    Awkward parking on shifting sands.

    That's a beautiful place to park for free. The fresh water Lake Superior provides water for those who have the means to filter it. There's no grey dump and no trash. However, the fact that it's parking right on a beach makes it very difficult for larger vehicles, such as my 16,000-pound bus. I did manage to park it, though. In the dark.

  • Shawnee ..
    Feb. 5, 2022

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    Rustic beauty!

    One of my absolute favorite places to camp on Lake Superior. Rustic and beautiful. Carry in, carry out. Respect the land and space for those who have been enjoying this land for years and wish to for many more. Visit to see for yourself!

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 14, 2023

    Lake Perrault

    Free dispersed

    Nice small lake, easy access from the main road. Road to the lake isn’t paved and there are huge potholes so go slow. A couple of the campers looked like they’re long-termers, but there was still plenty of room. It’s a dispersed area with some sites with fire pits that are cleared and open for camping, maybe about 6 spots or so. A couple of the spots are right down at the water. 

    There’s also a little trail by the water but the mosquitoes were too bad for me to try and hike it. Though this is definitely a local hangout, with trucks coming in and out almost all day and late into the night, everyone was respectful and quiet, and it was really nice and peaceful overnight. 

    There was a little road noise but not bad at all. Some interesting animal calls overnight as well. There was good cell reception for Verizon and ATT.

  • Pat F.
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Lake Perrault

    Great little overlook of the lake

    Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill , quite too, fire pit made of rocks

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Lake Perrault

    Beautiful and quiet lake front

    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. This was a Monday evening and every site was being used or people just had stuff at the sites (not sure if anyone was actually staying at the spots) We were having an enjoyable time but then didn’t have a good interaction with one of the other campers. It was a problem to play fetch with our dog not being on a leash. Our dog was staying in our camp and playing fetch away from others. So we decided to pack up camp due to the interaction. Didn’t feel like any good was going to happen the rest of the night after that.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    Easy Access, Great Vibes

    Easy to find, beautiful area, lots of room, porta potties, direct lake access. Only “complaint” would be no service, but given how amazing the site is it felt more like a blessing.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    Great Quiet Spot on the Lake

    Awesome spot right on the waters of Lake Superior. Absolutely gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. The drive out is manageable is about any car, four wheel drive helps if you decide to go deeper down the road.

Guide to Keweenaw Bay

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Keweenaw Bay, Michigan, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. This area offers several spots for those looking to escape into the wild without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Views and Relaxation while free camping near Keweenaw Bay

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Keweenaw Bay, Michigan

  • When visiting Lake Perrault, be prepared for a rough road; slow driving is essential to navigate the potholes safely.

Wildlife Watching for dispersed campers

  • Enjoy the sounds of nature and spot local wildlife while camping at Thayer's Lake, where the peaceful surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for animal watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping sites around Keweenaw Bay?

Keweenaw Bay offers excellent dispersed camping options. Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping is a popular spot directly on Lake Superior with plenty of room for multiple campers. It's accessible via a gravel road that doesn't require 4WD, though having it helps if you venture deeper. The sites are first-come, first-served, positioned right on the sand with direct lake access. Look for established fire rings to identify camping spots. While rustic, the area does provide porta potties for basic amenities.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping in Keweenaw Bay?

The prime season for dispersed camping in Keweenaw Bay runs from late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer months offer the most comfortable temperatures and allow for swimming in Lake Superior, though sites at popular locations fill quickly on summer weekends. Lake Perrault becomes particularly busy during summer weekends, with many sites occupied by early afternoon. For more solitude, consider camping mid-week when many weekend campers depart. Fall brings spectacular colors to the region, though prepare for cooler nights. Winter camping is possible for experienced cold-weather campers, but requires specialized gear and preparation.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Keweenaw Bay?

Dispersed camping in Keweenaw Bay follows typical backcountry principles. Most importantly, practice carry-in, carry-out ethics—pack out all trash and leave no trace. At Thayer's Lake and other dispersed sites, use existing fire rings rather than creating new ones. Camping is generally limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. No reservations are accepted—all sites are first-come, first-served. Respect quiet hours (typically 10pm-6am) and maintain appropriate distance from water sources (usually 200 feet). Porta potties may be available at some locations, but be prepared to properly dispose of human waste where facilities don't exist. Always check for fire restrictions before your trip, especially during dry periods.

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