Dispersed camping options near Paradise, Michigan offer primitive sites with minimal amenities and typically require self-sufficiency. Wide Waters provides free camping about 15 miles from Paradise on sandy terrain that can be challenging for standard vehicles. Lake Superior North Shore camping area offers beachfront sites accessible via dirt roads with varying conditions throughout the year. Both areas lack facilities such as toilets or drinking water, requiring campers to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can enjoy both river and lake fishing at Andrus Lake State Forest Campground, located near Paradise. "We camped here for a couple days in mid July... We went fishing once for a few hours and caught 5 bass between the two of us all about 12in," notes Madalynn L. The lake was restocked after a previous fish kill.
Paddling and water sports: Many campgrounds provide water access for kayaks and canoes. At Monocle Lake, campers appreciate the calm waters. "Awesome Upper Peninsula FS Campground... There's a nice lake at the campground," reports Jeff T. John N. adds, "Day use area had a clean beach and good water for bathing/swimming... Good for kayaking and paddling."
Lighthouse visits: Several campers recommend visiting nearby lighthouses as day trips. "Crisp Point Lighthouse is 30 min from Bodi Lake Campground (you can climb to the top and had a beautiful view)," reports Tayah H. Point Iroquois Lighthouse is another option, with Pegeen S. noting it has a "boardwalk and good rock finding."
What campers like
Beach access: Many campers value shoreline access for swimming and relaxation. At Bay View, Kevin notes, "With easy beach access and clean amenities... Sandy beaches and round rock lake bottom; bring aqua-socks for sensitive feet if going for a swim. Water was clean and cool but definitely swimmable." The campground hosts also provide amenities like games.
Quiet, secluded sites: Several campgrounds offer privacy from neighbors. At Mouth of Two Hearted River State Forest Campground, Mary H. comments, "Off the beaten path... Would love to keep this gem as hidden as possible, so hesitate to recommend, but it is really wonderful. Amazing location and super quiet when the ATVs stay away."
Fall colors and seasonal timing: Many campers recommend fall visits for reduced bugs and beautiful scenery. Ashleigh M. stayed at the Rivermouth Pines rustic campground: "I stayed at the Rivermouth Pines rustic campground for a surprisingly warm fall colors weekend. It was a beautiful, quiet campground with stunning views." Becky K. adds, "We were there late in the season and had a lovely, quiet campsite near the River where we fished for our dinner and later built a romantic campfire."
What you should know
Bug activity: Mosquitoes and black flies can be intense, particularly in summer. A visitor to Lake Superior North Shore warns, "Mosquito capital of the north, open truck door and 5 fly in immediately." Joel C. advises, "Bring a bug hat and plenty of bug spray unfortunately it's a hotbed for black flies and skeeters."
Dirt road access: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. Sydney H. notes about Mouth of Two Hearted River, "This is a great place to camp for a night or two if you are looking to do some peaceful fishing or explore the whitefish point area." Samantha B. warns, "If I could give one warning before coming to this campground, it would be: DO NOT USE Google maps, Apple maps or GPS to get here."
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited or no connectivity. For Andrus Lake, Joie V. reports, "Verizon cell service was great and had between 2-3 bars in most of the campground," which is unusual for the area. Sydney H. notes about Two Hearted River, "There is no cell service in most of the area."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Family-friendly beaches are available at several campgrounds. At Brimley State Park Campground, Samantha B. explains, "The shining star of this campground is the beach. The swimming is some of the best with a nice sandy bottom and no rocks." EmmaLee H. adds, "Short walk to a clean beach. Ranger programs for kids, nice playground."
Campground amenities: Some parks offer specific family-friendly features. At Andrus Lake, Joie V. reports, "Campground had a cute beach area that the kids loved to swim and build castles but did need lots of bug spray." Melissa A. notes about Bay View: "He had a community box of games that we could use during our stay. We used sand buckets and shovels to play with during our stay."
Timing recommendations: Many families suggest visiting in fall for better conditions. Dakota R. shares about Andrus Lake, "I used red Offwoods mosquito & tick repellent and me and all our children were fine. Kids caught a few bass right off the dock." At Brimley, Ronald B. advises, "We would come back again but in warmer sunnier weather."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campsites have limitations for larger rigs. At Bodi Lake State Forest Campground, Robert S. notes, "Nice USFS campground on a little inland lake... The campground had big sites. No problem fitting our 32 footer." In contrast, Kris W. warns about Monocle Lake: "Although this is a great family campground, most bigger Campers and RVs can't stay here. There are many trees too close to roadways for turning corners."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary between campgrounds. About Brimley State Park, Ronald B. explains, "Our site backed up to a bay in Lake Superior. We were able to see a sunset from the beach the first night. The beach is just 30 feet from the back of our RV." Tom notes about Tahquamenon Falls, "No water hook ups... There is a water fill station on the way into the campground."
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds remain open year-round with special winter activities. Michael T. reports about Lower Falls Campground, "Snowmobiled, snowshoed, hiked, cross countries, oh and nice waterfalls." Shu W. shares about Lake Superior North Shore, "Visited the site in a winter storm... Road is covered with heavy snow, no issue with an AWD camper van. Snow shoeing in the woods and along the lake beach. Fantastic!"
