Tent camping near Marenisco, Michigan centers around the northern section of the Ottawa National Forest, where the elevation ranges from 1,400 to 1,800 feet. Campsites throughout this region feature dense northern hardwood and pine forests with numerous lakes and rivers. Winter camping is generally available year-round at several locations, though access roads may not be maintained during winter months.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Hike to nearby waterfalls from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp, where a short trail leads to scenic water features. "There is a bridge and really nice trail along the river with waterfalls right at the end of the campground. In the right conditions you could probably fish off of the cross country ski trail which we walked too," notes reviewer Jennie S. from Union River Rustic Outpost Camp.
Canoe excursions: Navigate the waterways at Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area, which offers extensive paddling routes through interconnected channels. "The Turtle Flambeau Flowage is dubbed the 'Boundary Waters of Wisconsin' and for good reason! The quality of the waters, vast array of channels, islands and camping spots is simply amazing," says reviewer Kim from Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area.
Swimming opportunities: Many campsites in the region provide access to swimming areas. "Clark Lake is very pretty, good for swimming, and serves as the primary water source," writes Danielle A. about Sylvania Wilderness. At Turtle Flambeau, one camper mentioned, "There was also a nice sandy beach 100 yards from our landing on an opposite strip of the flowage."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The area's lakes and forests support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had a mating pair of eagles about 50 yards from our landing," reports one Turtle Flambeau camper. Another mentions, "Wildlife is abundant with Bald Eagles, Loons, deer, coyotes, and sounds of wolves."
Secluded camping spots: Private camping areas provide peace and quiet. "Very wooded and quiet camp area - only 3 sites total in this loop! Great spot for exploring the Porcupines and also for some privacy compared to the modern campground in the park," writes Jenna L. about Union River Rustic Outpost Camp.
Fishing access: Many sites provide fishing opportunities directly from camp. Burned Dam Campground sits right on the Ontonagon River. As one reviewer notes, "Beautiful, quiet, free campgrounds right next to the Ontonagon River and Mex-i-mine Falls (you can hear the rushing water)," according to Kyle K. from Burned Dam Campground.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Biting insects can be intense in this region. "Only real minus: BUGS. this campground was FULL of mosquitos and biting flies. Even with bug spray, the assault was nonstop. Bring a screen-printing popup shelter with you or you will suffer," warns Kyle K. about Burned Dam Campground.
Limited amenities: Most sites have basic facilities only. "No trash service (pack out all you bring), and no running water here," notes a Burned Dam camper. Similarly, at Wabasso Lake, "The only amenities are a vault toilet and water," according to Theodora M. from Wabasso Lake Recreation Area.
Site terrain challenges: Finding completely flat tent spots can be difficult. "The area is covered in soft pine duff but finding a truly flat spot free of any small mounds of moss or decayed nurse logs can be a challenge," explains Danielle A. about Sylvania Wilderness. Another camper at Union River notes, "Site was not that level. If you were tent camping, you would likely be sleeping on a slope of some kind."
Tips for camping with families
Consider water-based camping: For families, boat-in sites can offer more adventure. "Loved my first experience at canoe camping. We did it the easy way, loaded our canoe, crossed the lake to our campsite and set up camp. No portaging with our gear," reports Ann M. from Sylvania Wilderness Backcountry Camping.
Reserve both adjacent sites: At smaller campgrounds, consider booking multiple sites. "Most sites in Sylvania are 2 sites very near to each other... My advice is to book both sites for the nights you're staying. At $15 a night per site, it still ends up being a cheap investment for peace and quiet," suggests Jess R.
Use main campground amenities: Some rustic areas offer access to nearby facilities. "More amenities can be found at the main campground in the state park. We filled up with water there," advises Art S. about staying at Union River Outpost while using Porcupine Mountains State Park facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV sites available: Most camping in this region focuses on tent camping with few dedicated RV spaces. "We stayed on UR2. It was wooded! We had two tents and one car," notes Jennie S. about Union River Outpost. At another location, a reviewer mentions, "The gravel drive was uphill so we ended up turning the camper 90 degrees."
Parking constraints: Many sites have small parking areas not designed for larger vehicles. "There are only walk-in tent sites here. We missed that before we headed here so we needed to look elsewhere," writes Art S. about Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Backcountry Site. However, some sites do offer alternatives: "The parking area is huge so one could fit a trailer or pop up there."
