Best Dispersed Camping near Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Dispersed camping near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan includes multiple free sites on public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The area features primitive camping spots like USFS 3536, Search Bay Dispersed, Lake Superior North Shore, and Wide Waters Dispersed sites. Most locations have minimal to no facilities, with camping permitted directly on forest service roads or established clearings. These sites typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, though vehicle size limitations exist at most locations.
Access roads throughout the region range from well-maintained gravel to challenging sand trails with deep potholes. Several sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly Search Bay and Lake Superior North Shore, where sandy conditions can cause issues for standard passenger vehicles. Most dispersed sites permit campfires, though seasonal restrictions may apply. No drinking water, restrooms, or trash services exist at these locations. Camping is generally free, though some areas like Wide Waters and Lake Superior North Shore may require permits. Campers should follow standard dispersed camping protocols, including proper waste disposal and respecting the 14-day limit common on public lands.
The primitive camping experience offers direct access to natural features, with several sites positioned along shorelines. Search Bay provides waterfront camping with views across Lake Huron, while Lake Superior North Shore offers beach access in a remote setting. Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. Reviews indicate USFS 3536 has poor T-Mobile connectivity but reasonable AT&T service. Search Bay receives moderate to heavy use during summer months, with visitors noting "beautiful large dispersed camping area on the shores of Lake Huron" though "camping on the beach is not permitted." Lake Superior North Shore is described as "super secluded and right on the beach" with "some campers are pigs and leave their trash around." Mosquitoes can be problematic at certain times, particularly in cedar-dominated areas near Search Bay.
