Rustic camping near Petoskey, Michigan offers access to dense northern hardwood forests and inland lakes within a region that receives approximately 123 inches of annual snowfall. The area sits at elevations between 600-1,200 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for both summer and fall camping experiences. Road access often narrows as you approach the more remote sites, with several requiring clearance for low-hanging branches.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, clear waters provide exceptional bass fishing. According to Dan K., "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast."
Beachcombing: The shoreline at Carp River Boat Launch offers uncrowded Lake Huron beach access even during peak periods. "Beautiful view of Lake Huron. Labor Day weekend and no one else is here except the ubiquitous mosquitoes," reports camper Vidalia S.
Wildlife watching: Fall camping presents opportunities to hear elk bugling near De Cheau Lake Camping. One camper described their experience: "Blessed by the Elk bugles nearby," adding that the lake feels "more remote than it really is" despite being near private residences.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Castle Rock Ponds offers multiple camping spots overlooking ponds with minimal development. Evan D. notes, "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."
Multiple lake access points: Many sites provide direct water access without crowds. Rick M. describes Carp River Boat Launch as "a nice place to park. The beach smells like fish, but overall it's pretty nice."
Flat parking areas: Several dispersed sites accommodate various vehicle sizes. At Castle Rock Ponds, Gary N. reports, "Decent flat parking around the ponds, with plenty of room for at least 6 rigs."
Wildflower viewing: Seasonal blooms attract wildlife at some sites. At Mackinac Trail Spur Site, one camper observed, "It is a beautiful area that has flowers blooming. The monarch butterflies are dancing on them."
What you should know
Michigan Recreation Passport requirement: Some sites require the state passport for legal camping. At De Cheau Lake Camping, camper j H. noted, "Posted on Southern entrance: Michigan Rec Passport Required."
Road condition challenges: Many access roads have potholes or rough sections. Hannah W. warns about Carp River: "The road is decent but has MANY deep potholes. So you need to watch for that!"
Seasonal insect conditions: Mosquito activity varies by location and season. David B. at Search Bay Dispersed observed, "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.)"
Navigational challenges: Finding some sites requires persistence. Rachael T. advises about Sand Lakes: "You park in this small lot with a yellow gate that is in-front of the trail and then walk down for about 10 min until you see a smaller trail to left follow that down and you will see the campsites!"
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly options: Some rustic areas near Petoskey accommodate equestrian camping. Brianna K. recommends Goose Creek Trail Camp: "I camp here with my horse - there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river."
Beach swimming access: Many waterfront sites have gradual entry points suitable for children. Dylan D. notes about Search Bay, "Great sites here, so many to choose from all across the water. Each have their own fire pits."
Accessibility considerations: Several sites require hiking to reach campsites. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, camper Maddy T. reports, "This is a park and walk camping spot... From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping."
Shooting noise awareness: Some camping areas may experience hunting or target shooting activity. Therese S. reports at Castle Rock Ponds: "Both days/nights there were people doing target shooting in the area so there was some pretty loud gunshots, if that's a deal breaker for you, I wouldn't recommend this spot."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping locations accommodate smaller rigs. Robert M. advises: "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."
Seasonal timing advantages: Shoulder season visits can provide more solitude. Barry M. notes about Search Bay: "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."
Overnight parking alternatives: Some boat launches provide suitable overnight camping options. Luke T. describes Carp River Boat Launch as a "Great night stop over. Easy to get to from the Hwy."
