Top Free Dispersed Camping near Pellston, MI

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Pellston, look no further. Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Michigan excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pellston, MI (4)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Pellston

5 Reviews of 4 Pellston Campgrounds


  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Great little spot

    Ended up with a flat tire from what we assume was leftover trash metal from the campsites but despite that it was beautiful and we got to see the northern lights 😍

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Stunning

    Absolutely stunning location! This dispersed campsite offers breathtaking views right on the shoreline. The serenity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable experience. The terrain is slightly rocky, and there’s a constant wind—both to be expected—but it only adds to the rugged charm. Plus, the Verizon cell service was excellent—a cherry on top for staying connected while enjoying nature. Highly recommended!

  • Robert M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Your Amenities are Fresh air, Nature, beauty and peace.

    I rated it high because it was as promised. Someone who is looking for a campground with bathrooms and showers would be disappointed, but apparently did not read the description. 

    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. I was pleased and surprised to find a site I could simply pull into, right on the lake looking out at a million-dollar view of a beautiful bay, with a deep cedar forest on the other side. The soothing sound of what seemed like an almost constant breeze through the cedars was wonderful.

    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. 

    There was a 1-3 bar Verizon signal.

    Loved this campsite. My thanks to The Dyrt.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    May. 22, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Search Bay

    Beautiful camp spots right on the lake. I have a 20 foot sprinter. I wouldn’t bring anything much bigger than that in here couldn’t make it to the last two camp spots tree overhang smaller vehicle could’ve made it through again beautiful spot. I’m gonna be here a few days.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Oct. 7, 2023

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Perfect Dispersed Camping

    Really cool dispersed camping area along the water. There are lots of sites right on the water shore, which we sadly could not make it to. These would be good for tents, or maybe vans/ truck campers. Scope out the road and proceed as you feel comfortable. 

    The trees are really overgrown and low hanging, and there were lots of pot holes and mud holes when we were there. Definitely no place for our 26ft class c. There are two sites before you reach the river shore road, maybe three if you want to squeeze into a littler spot, and those are nice and big for RVs, and clear and open for solar panels, but were taken when we went. So we went a mile back up the road to a little pullout along a lake that looked like it was cleared out a bit and stayed there for two wonderful relaxing peaceful nights. 

    Some road traffic from people going to the bay, but the road condition is such that everyone was going really slowly, so that was nice. Road going in was doable, but you’d definitely need to take it slow because of all the potholes and dips. We did have cell service, though it wasn’t the greatest (Verizon & ATT). 

    Nice peaceful area to hang out right at the water. Bugs weren’t too bad, mostly bumble bees going about their business. Biting flies did bite through my socks though.



Guide to Pellston

Camping near Pellston, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds, like Wilderness State Park Camping, have stunning beaches. One camper mentioned, "The beach was beautiful, the water clear, and just a short drive from Mackinaw City!"
  • Hiking and biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Young State Park Campground said, "There are lots of hiking and biking trails," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Visit Mackinac Island: Just a ferry ride away, Mackinac Island is a must-see. Campers at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA appreciated the easy access to the ferries, saying, "This KOA provides you information for Shepler’s Ferry."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers often rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Straits State Park Campground noted, "The bathroom and shower facilities were nice and clean!"
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. A camper at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground said, "You can't beat the location because it is absolutely gorgeous right on Lake Michigan."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Burt Lake State Park Campground are great for families. One visitor mentioned, "Wonderful campground that is great for the family."

What you should know:

  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is very close to the main road and you can hear the traffic."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Fisherman's Island State Park Campground pointed out, "No toilets, no showers, but the beach is sandy with plenty of cool rocks for rock hunting."
  • Early check-in restrictions: Some parks, like Wilderness State Park Camping, have strict check-in times. One camper noted, "Don’t try to arrive early and get in. They don’t allow early entry."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose a beachside site: Sites near the water can be more enjoyable for kids. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground said, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area."
  • Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds that offer recreational activities. A visitor at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA mentioned, "They have a playground, Gaga ball, horseshoe, and corn hole."
  • Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Young State Park Campground noted, "The beach was close by and clean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites can be tight. A reviewer at Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA said, "The sites are tight, particularly the inside pull-throughs."
  • Look for full hookups: If you need amenities, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Brimley State Park Campground appreciated the "bathhouses are new, in great shape."
  • Be mindful of noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Otsego Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "You can hear road traffic noise all day and night."

Camping near Pellston, Michigan, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pellston, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pellston, MI is Search Bay Dispersed with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pellston, MI?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Pellston, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.