Dispersed camping near Onaway, Michigan provides rustic outdoor experiences within the forested areas of the northern Lower Peninsula, where elevation ranges from 700 to 900 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 75-80°F and cold winters dipping well below freezing. Fall camping offers colorful foliage viewing while spring brings wildflowers and higher water levels in the surrounding lakes and ponds.
What to do
Kayaking in the UP: Take advantage of the calmer waters at Search Bay Dispersed camping area. "Beautiful large dispersed camping area on the shores of lake Huron. There were only four or five other overnight campers, although during the day several groups came to use the beach," notes camper Vidalia S. about this waterfront location.
Wildlife viewing: Listen for elk bugling at De Cheau Lake Camping during fall months. One camper described the experience: "Feels more remote than it really is. Lots of room for multiple vehicles/sites. Beautiful lake, blessed by the Elk bugles nearby."
Seasonal exploration: Visit in fall for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. As Barry M. noted at Search Bay Dispersed, "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 campers like
Accessibility for small vehicles: Many primitive camping sites near Onaway can be reached with standard cars. "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," reports Evan D. about Castle Rock Ponds.
Off-season solitude: Spring and fall offer quieter camping experiences with fewer visitors. According to Dylan D., "Great sites here (so many to choose from all across the water). Each have their own fire pits. We are here in late April so with the chilly weather there isn't a soul in site."
Natural sounds: The area provides peaceful ambient sounds from wind and water. One camper at Search Bay Dispersed shared: "The soothing sound of what seemed like an almost constant breeze through the cedars was wonderful."
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Mosquito activity varies significantly by season and location. "I rated it high because it was as promised. I don't know if it's just that I came at the right time but didn't see a single mosquito in three days, nor was I bothered by any other bug," reports Robert M., contrasting with Jared B.'s experience at the same location: "If you go there it's mostly cedar and the swarms of skeeters are pretty bad."
Changing regulations: Rules about where camping is permitted can change. Rebecca B. notes at Search Bay Dispersed: "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."
Variable occupancy: Popularity fluctuates by season and day of week. "Just minutes off of 75 down a well maintained gravel road are the Castle Rock ponds. Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs," according to Gary N., while Luke T. mentions it as a "Great night stop over. Easy to get to from the Hwy."
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Look for sites with ample room for multiple tents and activities. At De Cheau Lake Camping, J.H. found that it "feels more remote than it really is. Lots of room for multiple vehicles/sites."
Plan for variable weather: Wind off lakes can be strong but may reduce insects. David B. explains: "I saw a lot of reviews about mosquitoes, but I haven't had any issues - may be because of the wind (it can blow really strong off the water)."
Select campsites strategically: For family camping, consider sites away from beach areas that may attract day visitors. "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," notes Vidalia S.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many rustic camping areas near Onaway have access constraints for larger vehicles. Robert M. advises at Search Bay: "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. I did see a vehicle pull one of those boxy 20' camping trailers into a campsite up the road."
Ideal for smaller setups: Pop-up campers and smaller RVs fare well at most sites. Joran B. observed at Castle Rock Ponds: "Perfect for tent or car campers. There was one other camper with a pop up camper and looked to be doing great."
Limited hookups: Prepare for fully self-contained camping without amenities. "Your Amenities are Fresh air, Nature, beauty and peace," reminds Robert M., adding "Someone who is looking for a campground with bathrooms and showers would be disappointed."
