Tent camping near L'Anse, Michigan offers diverse primitive experiences across Ottawa National Forest and surrounding areas. The region experiences heavy winter snowfall with accumulation often beginning in October and lasting through April. Ground temperatures can remain cool even during summer months, affecting comfort for tent campers without proper insulation.
What to do
Hiking North Country Trail: The scenic long-distance trail passes through several camping areas including Craig Lake State Park. "For someone who GREATLY values hidden gems where you can get really out and remote, this place is a an absolute heavenly oasis," notes Rebecca W. The park offers boat-in and hike-in camping with walk-in sites accessible via the North Country Trail.
Birdwatching opportunities: Early risers at Big Lake State Forest Campground can catch unique wildlife. "Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning," reports Amy K. The campground's proximity to wetlands and pine meadows creates ideal conditions for spotting native birds.
Mountain biking network: The Forestville Campground serves as a trailhead for extensive biking trails. "Part of the Noquemanon Trail Network for mountain biking," explains Richie C. "This campground is well placed for hiking as well. Sugarloaf Mountain and Hogsback are only a short drive away."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Emily Lake State Forest Campground provides direct water access from campsites. "Great view down a small hill at the back of the site," reports Connor H. The campground offers fishing opportunities with one camper noting they "caught some blue gills" during their stay.
Separation from crowds: Many dispersed sites offer isolation from busy tourist areas. "I spent an overnight in this beautiful place. I was all alone in the campground," writes Chuck M. about Lake Perrault. The peaceful setting attracts those seeking minimal interaction despite challenging access roads.
Winter camping possibilities: Some campgrounds maintain limited winter access. "We camped here in a van in December and were able to access the pit toilets. They were very clean. We had the whole place to ourselves," notes Jenny K. about winter camping at Forestville Campground. Early season campers should prepare for potentially harsh conditions.
What you should know
Access road challenges: Many campgrounds require navigating difficult forest roads. "The road in is AWFUL. But slow driving is the cure for that," advises Chuck M. about Lake Perrault. Similar conditions exist at several locations, requiring patience and appropriate vehicles.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed areas lack basic amenities. "Few fire pits and no bathroom, worked well for a night," reports Mason V. about Lake Perrault. Even established campgrounds typically offer only vault toilets and hand pumps for water when available.
Seasonal considerations: Weather changes rapidly in the Upper Peninsula. "In mid-October, we woke up to full on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season," warns Shari G. Most state forest campgrounds operate May through November but can close earlier depending on conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping options: Families seeking water activities should consider lakefront sites. "Located on the southern side of the Keweenaw Peninsula just south of the Schoolcraft Township Park on Big Traverse Bay, this rustic campground has 5 huge sites right on Lake Superior," reports Bruce B. about Schoolcraft Township Rustic Campground. "There were tons of wild blueberries and huckleberries while we were there in late August."
Bug protection essential: Insect activity can be intense during warm months. "Small campground near a falls. Sites are private," notes Kay K. about Burned Dam Campground, while another camper warns "The flies were quite bothersome so we decided to move on." Pack appropriate repellents and possibly screened shelters.
Larger sites at state forests: Big Lake State Forest Campground offers spacious sites suited for family groups. "Long windy road into the the campground resulting in a peaceful area. The lake was nice and there was a small beach," explains Amy K. These established sites provide more predictable accommodations for families.
Tips for RVers
Clearance concerns: Many forest roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "Not recommended for 2 wheel drive, low clearance vehicles," cautions Shari G. about the entrance to Big Lake State Forest Campground. "It is full of HUGE flooded potholes (small ponds really)."
Size restrictions at rustic sites: Most primitive campgrounds accommodate only small RVs. "Sites are small for larger vehicles," notes mitch C. about Forestville Campground. "The largest vehicle I saw during my few days here was a pickup truck with a bed-mounted camping unit," confirms Joshua L.
Limited hookup options: Tent camping near L'Anse offers no electrical or water connections. "No types of hookups for anything, and large RVs will not be able to access these sites! Only a one lane path with tight turns," explains Joshua L. RVers should prepare for self-contained camping with appropriate water and power reserves.
