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Best Dispersed Camping near Mackinac Island, MI

18 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Mackinac Island, Michigan centers around several primitive sites on public lands, with Search Bay Dispersed being the most established option. This free camping area sits along the shoreline with multiple sites directly on the water. Other options include Castle Rock Ponds, Mackinac Trail Spur Site, and USFS 3536 Dispersed Site, all located within driving distance of Mackinac Island ferries. These areas typically permit camping for up to 14 days and require visitors to follow leave-no-trace principles as no facilities or services are provided.

Road conditions vary significantly between sites, with many requiring careful navigation. Search Bay access roads feature potholes, mud holes, and low-hanging tree branches that limit larger vehicle access. Most reviewers recommend high-clearance vehicles, with several noting that RVs longer than 20-26 feet may struggle to reach waterfront sites. Castle Rock Ponds offers easier access via gravel roads suitable for standard vehicles. Weather conditions can significantly impact road quality, particularly during spring thaw and after heavy rainfall. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at any of these locations.

The dispersed sites around Mackinac Island provide varying camping experiences based on location. Search Bay offers waterfront camping with views across the bay, though several visitors note the area can become crowded during peak seasons. Castle Rock Ponds features camping overlooking small ponds in a forested setting. Seasonal considerations include mosquitoes, which can be particularly intense in cedar-dominated areas. Cell service varies by location and carrier, with some sites offering limited connectivity. "Beautiful camp spots right on the lake. I have a 20 foot sprinter. I wouldn't bring anything much bigger than that in here," noted one Search Bay visitor. Another camper at Castle Rock Ponds mentioned, "Easy to get to camping spot with multiple camping sites overlooking ponds. A couple miles down a nice gravel road that any kind of car could make it down."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Mackinac Island, Michigan (7)

    1. Search Bay Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Cedarville, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 428-5800

    "The road to the sign is easy-peasy, but the USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move."

    "Really cool dispersed camping area along the water. There are lots of sites right on the water shore, which we sadly could not make it to. These would be good for tents, or maybe vans/ truck campers."

    2. Castle Rock Ponds

    4 Reviews
    St. Ignace, MI
    10 miles

    "Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs."

    "The road was long but worth the drive back!"

    3. Carp River Boat Launch

    2 Reviews
    Moran, MI
    12 miles

    "Beautiful view of lake Huron. Labor Day weekend and no one else is here except the ubiquitous mosquitoes. Easy and easy out on a good gravel road. Access to Lake Huron."

    "Just parked off to the side of the road near the boat launch and had a view of the water ! Very secluded feeling and peaceful !"

    4. Mackinac Trail Spur Site

    2 Reviews
    Moran, MI
    13 miles

    "It's next to a campground and 15 minutes from the lighthouse and ferry to Macimac Island. I am looking forward to hanging out here ."

    5. Mackinac Trail Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Moran, MI
    12 miles

    6. USFS 3536 Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    Eckerman, MI
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (906) 643-7900

    "We found a good spot to tuck into for the night, while staying out of the way of all the trucks parked everywhere. Very quiet and serene."

    "Access to this FS Road is easy from M-28. We went to the coordinates, but found only one designated camping area, which already had a couple of campers there."

    7. Pigeon River State Forest dispersed camping

    Be the first to review!
    Vanderbilt, MI
    45 miles
    Website
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Mackinac Island, MI

13 Photos of 7 Mackinac Island Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mackinac Island, MI

18 Reviews of 7 Mackinac Island Campgrounds

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Peaceful But No Beach Camping

    The road to the sign is easy-peasy, but the USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move. We switched to one of the spots in the woods right before the welcoming sign.

    The bay is calm and beach nice.

    There are some logging activities, so some noise every once in awhile.

    But for free camping in the southern side of the UP, this is a home run.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2023

    USFS 3536 Dispersed Site

    OK for a night

    We were a little confused here, as we thought the camping spots were the concrete pads leading up to the old airfield. But there are big rocks blocking the way from Rd 3536 to the airfield, so I don’t know if that’s a recent addition or what. There’s a large concrete pad on the west side of the rocks, and when we got there there was a nice looking (not sketchy) travel trailer set up for long term camping. Lots of trucks parked everywhere with trailers; they had hauled their ATVs in and were out riding for the day. They came back on their ATVs in the late afternoon, hung out for a few hours, then left (except for the trailer). All surprisingly quiet and respectful. 

    Zero cell service with Verizon but ATT had good service, mostly. It would randomly drop now and then but it would come back. We found a good spot to tuck into for the night, while staying out of the way of all the trucks parked everywhere. Very quiet and serene.

    This is dispersed camping so of course no amenities whatsoever. Please handle your waste appropriately and let's keep this area clean.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2023

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Perfect Dispersed Camping

    Really cool dispersed camping area along the water. There are lots of sites right on the water shore, which we sadly could not make it to. These would be good for tents, or maybe vans/ truck campers. Scope out the road and proceed as you feel comfortable. 

    The trees are really overgrown and low hanging, and there were lots of pot holes and mud holes when we were there. Definitely no place for our 26ft class c. There are two sites before you reach the river shore road, maybe three if you want to squeeze into a littler spot, and those are nice and big for RVs, and clear and open for solar panels, but were taken when we went. So we went a mile back up the road to a little pullout along a lake that looked like it was cleared out a bit and stayed there for two wonderful relaxing peaceful nights. 

    Some road traffic from people going to the bay, but the road condition is such that everyone was going really slowly, so that was nice. Road going in was doable, but you’d definitely need to take it slow because of all the potholes and dips. We did have cell service, though it wasn’t the greatest (Verizon & ATT). 

    Nice peaceful area to hang out right at the water. Bugs weren’t too bad, mostly bumble bees going about their business. Biting flies did bite through my socks though.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    USFS 3536 Dispersed Site

    One great large-ish area

    Access to this FS Road is easy from M-28. We went to the coordinates, but found only one designated camping area, which already had a couple of campers there. While they seemed friendly enough, there was poor T-Mobile connectively and no hope for Starlink.

    On an offshoot of the FS Road closer to M-28, there is a single path towards the airfield. We camped there. Some highway noise, but a little more sun and great T-Mobile.  

    46.35276778604294,-84.82903811659388

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Stunning

    Absolutely stunning location! This dispersed campsite offers breathtaking views right on the shoreline. The serenity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable experience. The terrain is slightly rocky, and there’s a constant wind—both to be expected—but it only adds to the rugged charm. Plus, the Verizon cell service was excellent—a cherry on top for staying connected while enjoying nature. Highly recommended!

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2025

    Search Bay Dispersed

    mousquitio heaven

    if you go there it’s mostly cedar and the swarms of skeeters are pretty bad, we did not stay we moved on just be aware

  • Vidalia S.
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Busy because it's perfection

    Beautiful large dispersed camping area on the shores of lake Huron. Note camping on the beach is not permitted, but there are plenty of beautiful campsites overlooking the lake. There were only four or five other overnight campers, although during the day several groups came to use the beach and to ride ATVs, but very quiet by late afternoon. Several campsites at the end of an excellent gravel road, more further down if you have four-wheel drive. Active logging in the area when we were there. No. T-Mobile, no bugs or mosquitoes when we were there.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Great little spot

    Ended up with a flat tire from what we assume was leftover trash metal from the campsites but despite that it was beautiful and we got to see the northern lights 😍

  • Bare Soul W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Very peopley

    Great spot on the lake. A lot of people are set up. Otherwise great location

Guide to Mackinac Island

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mackinac Island, Michigan, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities, these locations offer a perfect escape into the wilderness.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Mackinac Island, Michigan

  • Be prepared for a rustic experience; for instance, Search Bay Dispersed offers no amenities like drinking water or toilets, making it essential to bring your own supplies.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

  • Enjoy breathtaking shoreline views at Search Bay Dispersed, where the tranquil waters and surrounding forests create a picturesque setting for relaxation.

Outdoor activities while free camping near Mackinac Island

  • Explore the nearby trails and waterways; USFS 3536 Dispersed Site is a great spot for those looking to hike or ride ATVs, with plenty of space to set up camp after a day of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping near Mackinac Island?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Mackinac Island on the mainland. Search Bay Dispersed offers beautiful shoreline sites with water views, though beach camping has recently been restricted - stick to designated spots in the wooded areas. USFS 3536 Dispersed Site provides free camping with easy access from M-28, though sites are limited and connectivity can be spotty. Both options require self-sufficiency as they lack facilities, and visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles, as some areas have unfortunately accumulated trash from previous campers.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping around Mackinac Island?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping near Mackinac Island, with summer providing warm days and pleasant evenings. However, July-August bring the largest crowds and potential for mosquitoes. At Castle Rock Ponds, you'll find accessible sites just minutes off Highway 75 down a well-maintained gravel road, with flat parking areas that accommodate multiple vehicles. Late summer and early fall can be ideal at sites like Search Bay Dispersed, where you might catch the Northern Lights on clear nights, but be prepared for wind if camping near the shore.

Is dispersed camping allowed on Mackinac Island?

No, dispersed camping is not allowed on Mackinac Island itself. The island is primarily a tourist destination with strict regulations to preserve its historic character. Overnight visitors must stay in established hotels, inns, or B&Bs on the island. For those seeking a dispersed camping experience near Mackinac Island, options are available on the mainland. Mackinac Trail Spur Site offers a nearby dispersed option that's approximately 15 minutes from the lighthouse and ferry to Mackinac Island, making it a convenient base for island day trips.

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