Primitive camping near Pellston, Michigan provides access to several dispersed sites throughout the Hiawatha National Forest and surrounding public lands. Situated in the northern Lower Peninsula, this region receives approximately 120 inches of snow annually, with summer temperatures averaging 75°F. Most sites lack developed facilities, requiring self-sufficiency and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Castle Rock Ponds offers quiet surroundings ideal for observing local wildlife. "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," notes Evan D., who visited in July.
Lake access: Carp River Boat Launch provides direct access to Lake Huron for kayaking and fishing. "Beautiful view of Lake Huron. Access to Lake Huron," reports Vidalia S., who found the site empty even during Labor Day weekend.
Seasonal butterfly watching: The dispersed sites along Mackinac Trail feature seasonal wildflower meadows that attract monarch butterflies during summer months. "It is a beautiful area that has flowers blooming. The monarch butterflies are dancing on them," writes a camper who visited in July.
What campers like
Uncrowded off-season camping: Search Bay Dispersed offers solitude during shoulder seasons. "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," shares Barry M.
Easy access from highways: Many dispersed sites near Pellston provide convenient stopping points for travelers. As Luke T. notes about Castle Rock Ponds, "Stopped for the night. Easy to get to from the Hwy. I must have had a good night as the bugs were at a minimum."
Wildlife sounds: De Cheau Lake Camping provides a soundtrack of natural sounds. "Feels more remote than it really is. Beautiful lake, blessed by the Elk bugles nearby," writes j H., highlighting the site's relative seclusion despite proximity to a state route.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Summer camping requires proper insect protection at most sites. "If you go there it's mostly cedar and the swarms of skeeters are pretty bad, we did not stay we moved on just be aware," warns jared B. about Search Bay Dispersed in late May.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads to primitive sites near Pellston can deteriorate depending on weather and season. Hannah W. notes about Carp River Boat Launch, "The road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that!"
Permit requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require Michigan Recreation Passports. At De Cheau Lake Camping, visitors should note that passes are "Posted on Southern entrance: Michigan Rec Passport Required" according to recent visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Choose early spring or fall for fewer crowds: Mackinac Trail Spur Site provides convenient access to regional attractions. "It's next to a campground and 15 minutes from the lighthouse and ferry to Mackinac Island," notes Bare Soul W.
Beach access considerations: Search Bay offers water access, but regulations may limit beach camping. "The USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move," reports Rebecca B., who found alternative spots in the woods.
Site selection for protection: Wind conditions affect comfort at waterfront sites. David B. shares about Search Bay: "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)."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Castle Rock Ponds accommodates moderate-sized recreational vehicles. "A couple people were here with moderate sized RVs," reports Evan D., though specific size limitations aren't provided.
Parking logistics: Finding level sites matters for comfortable overnight stays. Gary N. notes about Castle Rock Ponds: "Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs."
Small RV access: Search Bay Dispersed accommodates smaller recreational vehicles with careful navigation. "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," advises one camper who successfully accessed the area.
