The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers numerous remote tent camping opportunities near Michigamme. This heavily forested region sits at elevations ranging from 1,200-1,600 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the year. Winter conditions can persist well into May at many campsites, with ice-out on lakes typically occurring in late April to early May depending on the season's severity.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access with species variety. At Genes Pond State Forest Campground, one camper reported "My hubby caught some bluegill in the lake that we cooked up for dinner." The pond offers relaxed fishing without motorboat traffic.
Hiking the North Country Trail: This long-distance trail connects several backcountry camping areas. At Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, a visitor described "one of the most beautiful switch back type hikes, with breathtaking views of the gorge on the way down, a quick hike to the top of gorge once you're down, then look down and see the waterfalls!"
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer prime viewing opportunities. One camper at Lake Perrault mentioned "Some interesting animal calls overnight" while staying at this dispersed site. Dawn and dusk provide the best opportunities for spotting deer, eagles, and other wildlife throughout the region.
What campers like
Seclusion and quiet: Many sites offer true remoteness. At Big Lake State Forest Campground, campers found "Way off the beaten path but the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake." Another visitor noted "Getting to Big Lake leads you through some marvelous pine meadows and wetlands with browsing deer and pheasants."
Lake proximity: Direct water access ranks high with tent campers. At Lake Perrault, a reviewer described it as an "Idyllic camping spot" noting "There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents." Several sites feature direct shoreline access for convenient water activities.
Natural immersion: Densely wooded sites provide a true forest experience. At Forestville Campground, one camper found it was "Close to Marquette but feels secluded. At the head of some great mountain biking trails and backcountry rock climbing or bouldering." This campground's 15 sites maintain a natural feel despite proximity to town.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. For Big Lake State Forest Campground, a reviewer warned the entrance "is not for low clearance vehicles...it is full of HUGE flooded potholes (small ponds really). Not recommended for 2 wheel drive, low clearance vehicles."
Weather variability: Shoulder seasons bring unpredictable conditions. One camper at Big Lake recalled, "In mid-October, we woke up to full on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season."
Water quality issues: Some hand pumps produce poor quality water. At Craig Lake State Park Campground, visitors need to "Park and walk/hike/canoe/kayak in. No motors on lake." Another camper at Genes Pond warned about "horrid water. It comes from a cistern (I imagine) and has a hand pump. The water is awful. Cloudy and foul tasting, stale and full of minerals."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with lake beaches for kids. At Lake Perrault, a visitor observed "A couple of the spots are right down at the water," making it ideal for families who want water access without long walks.
Space considerations: Look for larger, more open sites with children. At Forestville Campground, one reviewer noted "Sites aren't very private, and are somewhat cramped, but I've certainly seen worse." Another observed "You can't build a fire without a fire ring but not all sites have them."
Seasonal timing: Visit early summer for fewer crowds but bring insect protection. A camper at Paint River Forks recommended the campground "would be great Mid summer with a big group of people! just keep on lights!" noting that shoulder seasons can be very quiet.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most sites accommodate smaller RVs only. Forestville Campground reviews repeatedly mention "large RVs will not be able to access these sites! Only a one lane path with tight turns. The largest vehicle I saw during my few days here was a pickup truck with a bed-mounted camping unit."
Self-sufficiency: Bring all necessary supplies as most sites lack hookups. Paint River Forks provides "5 or so campsites. Clean out house right on river. Just a mile or so down the dirt road," but lacks water and electrical connections like most rustic campgrounds in the region.
Cell service considerations: Reception varies drastically between campgrounds. Lake Perrault visitors report "good cell reception for Verizon and ATT" while Paint River Forks campers note "Cell service is 1/10," highlighting the importance of planning communication needs when tent camping near Michigamme.
