Dispersed camping sites near Naubinway, Michigan consist mainly of primitive locations on state and federal lands. The region sits at the junction of US-2 and M-117 along Lake Michigan's northern shore, with most sites located within the Hiawatha National Forest at elevations between 600-800 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer brings moderate 70-80°F days with cooler nights requiring extra layers even in July and August.
What to do
Northern lights viewing in fall/spring: At Castle Rock Ponds, campers can enjoy dark skies perfect for aurora viewing. "Easy to get to from the Hwy. I must have had a good night as the bugs were at a minimum," notes camper Luke T., who used this accessible spot as a base for night sky viewing.
Lake access for paddling: Carp River Boat Launch provides direct water access for kayaking and fishing on Lake Huron. "Beautiful view of Lake Huron. Easy in and easy out on a good gravel road. Access to Lake Huron," reports Vidalia S., who visited during Labor Day weekend.
ATV/snowmobile trails: The region serves as a hub for off-road recreation with numerous staging areas doubling as rustic camping spots. According to Jon S. at Wide Waters Dispersed Camping: "Came to here from the smaller beach spot that was full, plenty of space but the bugs will kill you in August," highlighting the dual-purpose nature of these areas.
What campers like
Seasonal timing advantages: Early spring and late fall offer significantly better camping experiences. "We are here in late April so with the chilly weather there isn't a soul in site. Highly recommend," reports Dylan D. about their experience at Search Bay Dispersed.
Wildlife viewing: Monarch butterflies and other wildlife create memorable encounters during summer months. At Mackinac Trail Spur Site, one camper noted: "It is a beautiful area that has flowers blooming. The monarch butterflies are dancing on them," showcasing the natural attractions beyond just the landscape.
Off-season solitude: October through April provides dramatically different experiences with fewer crowds. Barry M. observed at Search Bay: "Nice camp sites, pretty beach. I was there in October, so I don't know what it would be like in warmer weather. I had the place to myself on a Saturday."
What you should know
Map verification critical: Campsite locations on online maps frequently contain errors requiring cross-referencing. At Rhody Trail Pull Off, one camper learned this lesson: "We had a note in our tent from the DNR. This spot is not correct. We cross referenced this with three maps in the beginning before we went and after we arrived just to double check."
Beach camping restrictions: Some shoreline areas have implemented new regulations. Rebecca B. at Search Bay noted: "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."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Spring thaw (April-May) creates the most challenging access issues. Michael U. reported: "There's a good road that leads to the shore road that isn't terrible. My 2wd Tacoma had no issue. People have cleared sites and set up fire rings down the shore road."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation essential: The region's cedar forests create ideal mosquito breeding conditions. "If you go there it's mostly cedar and the swarms of skeeters are pretty bad," warns Jared B. about Search Bay, emphasizing the need for proper insect protection for children.
Simpler alternatives for convenience: When traveling with kids, consider Adams Trail Dirt Lot for its ease of access. Laura M. describes it as: "Large, flat, dirt parking lot for snowmobilers in the winter. No other signage re: overnight parking. Very quiet and peaceful, beautiful flowers everywhere."
Beach day access: Many non-waterfront camping areas provide reasonable driving distance to beaches. "The bay is calm and beach nice," notes Rebecca B. about the shoreline near Search Bay, making it possible to camp in less buggy forest locations while still enjoying water activities during the day.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations are real: Most rustic sites near Naubinway accommodate smaller rigs under 25 feet. Robert M. reported: "I had an 18' Thor Scope B class pulling a kayak trailer. I wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail," regarding his experience at Search Bay.
Snow machine parking areas: Winter recreation staging areas often make excellent off-season options for RVs. "Large area of sandy meadow, interspersed with copses of trees to give a greater sense of privacy," notes Vidalia S. about Wide Waters, which serves as a snowmobile staging area in winter but works well for camping other seasons.
Electrical independence: No shore power exists at any dispersed sites, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Hannah W. at Carp River Boat Launch advises: "We drove a 24 ft RV at night to the site and the road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that!"
