Best Dispersed Camping near Ottawa National Forest in Michigan

Want to go dispersed camping near Ottawa National Forest? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ottawa National Forest, MI (11)

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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Ottawa National Forest

12 Reviews of 11 Ottawa National Forest Campgrounds


  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FR 2140 Dispersed off Hidden Lakes Trail
    Jan. 10, 2025

    FR 2140 Dispersed off Hidden Lakes Trail

    Nice Spot in National forest

    Winter camped here, was a nice spot pic nik table, fire ring, wilderness toilet. There is hiking trail access from campsite,but no water access to butternut lake or it would have been 5 star. There is access down the road.Did get one bar of cell (cricket) full with 20 foot ant. Note I've been through here in summer and the road is gravel very dusty from traffic.

  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bose Lake Campsite
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Bose Lake Campsite

    Bose lake campsite

    Single campsite on small lake. Room for small camper in parking less than 15 foot. Fire ring and picknick table. Road to get in is narrow and pot holed.

  • hesselinkj@yahoo.com The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolf Lake Campsite
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Wolf Lake Campsite

    Wolf lake campsite

    Small campsite along paved road,fire ring and picnic table ,wilderness toilet. Stayed two nights in September it was quiet fishing was so so. I had 8 foot pop up could fit a 20 footer easy or tent camp. Seen two fire ring along the right shore of lake accessable by water.

  • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Lake Perrault

    Great little overlook of the lake

    Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill , quite too, fire pit made of rocks

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Apr. 29, 2024

    Lake Perrault

    Idyllic camping spot.

    I spent an overnight in this beautiful place. I was all alone in the campground. A few people drove down to the water while I was there. The place is a "lovers lane" of sorts. 

    The road in is AWFUL. But slow driving is the cure for that. 

    There are a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Perrault
    Dec. 14, 2023

    Lake Perrault

    Free dispersed

    Nice small lake, easy access from the main road. Road to the lake isn’t paved and there are huge potholes so go slow. A couple of the campers looked like they’re long-termers, but there was still plenty of room. It’s a dispersed area with some sites with fire pits that are cleared and open for camping, maybe about 6 spots or so. A couple of the spots are right down at the water. 

    There’s also a little trail by the water but the mosquitoes were too bad for me to try and hike it. Though this is definitely a local hangout, with trucks coming in and out almost all day and late into the night, everyone was respectful and quiet, and it was really nice and peaceful overnight. 

    There was a little road noise but not bad at all. Some interesting animal calls overnight as well. There was good cell reception for Verizon and ATT.


Guide to Ottawa National Forest

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ottawa National Forest in Michigan, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Ottawa National Forest

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to lakes like Wolf Lake Campsite, where you can cast a line and enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
  • Hiking opportunities abound, especially near Three Johns Lake Dispersed, where a short walk leads you to a secluded tent site with stunning views.
  • For those who enjoy campfires, Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite offers fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for gathering around after a day of exploration.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out McKinley Lake

  • Located in a tranquil setting, McKinley Lake Dispersed allows for a drive-in experience, making it easy to set up camp and enjoy the natural surroundings.
  • This site is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry companions along for the adventure, ensuring no one gets left behind.
  • With no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, it’s a true back-to-nature experience that encourages self-sufficiency and outdoor skills.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ottawa National Forest, Michigan

  • Always check the road conditions before heading to Bose Lake Campsite, as the access road can be narrow and potholed, requiring careful navigation.
  • Be prepared for a lack of facilities at places like Lake Perrault, where you’ll need to bring your own water and supplies, ensuring a more rugged camping experience.
  • Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles, especially in areas like Woodbury Lake Campsite, where trash disposal is not provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ottawa National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ottawa National Forest is Robinson Lake Dispersed Campsite with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ottawa National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Ottawa National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.