Dispersed camping sites near Toivola, Michigan provide backcountry experiences in the western Upper Peninsula's mixed conifer forests. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with typical northern woodland terrain featuring small lakes, creeks, and rolling hills. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F during day and 50-60°F at night, with frost possible well into June and again by September.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Lake Perrault offers small lake fishing opportunities with various species. "Basic Site. Few fire pits and no bathroom, worked well for a night," notes Mason V., who found the simple setup perfect for a fishing weekend.
Waterfall exploration: Access multiple waterfalls within 30-45 minutes of Toivola's camping areas. The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness provides dramatic gorge views with switchback trails. Rebecca P. shares, "The hike in was one of the most beautiful switch back type hikes, with breathtaking views of the gorge on the way down, a quick hike to the top of gorge once you're down, then look down and see the waterfalls!"
Wildlife watching: Early mornings and evenings are prime times for wildlife spotting. The forest edges near Craig Lake State Park Campground host diverse wildlife. Jeff P. observed "The wildlife include loons, eagles, bears, moose, deer and others. The lake has fantastic fishing for smallmouth, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and the occasional musky."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Emily Lake State Forest Campground. Connor H. mentions, "Great view down a small hill at the back of the site," though notes that "You will be able to hear your neighbors" when the campground gets busy.
Waterfront access: Direct lake access ranks high on camper preference lists. At Big Lake State Forest Campground, Tracy W. found "the sites are HUGE! Quiet setting right on Big Lake. Probably my most beautiful site in the UP so far. Vault toilets and no shower. Very clean. Boat launch."
Authentic wilderness feel: The best tent camping near Toivola offers genuine forest immersion. Mike S. says about Craig Lake State Park: "If you're looking for an off-the-grid escape this is it. The hike-in/paddle in camping spots are equipped with a picnic table and a firepit, everything else is up to you."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads to prime camping spots require slow driving and high clearance. Marissa R. from Lake Perrault notes her group was "doing a week of traveling out of our sprinter van through the UP" and found access manageable but requiring care.
Site availability patterns: Weekends from July through early September fill quickly. For quieter camping, midweek visits in June or September offer better site availability and fewer insects.
Weather preparedness: Upper Peninsula weather changes rapidly. Shari G. from Big Lake State Forest Campground shares, "In mid-October, we woke up to full on winter one morning, so be prepared for anything in the shoulder season."
Insect situation: Black flies and mosquitoes can be intense from late May through July. Art S. reports about Burned Dam Campground: "The flies were quite bothersome so we decided to move on...This would be an amazing place if the flies would leave us alone."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming options: For camping with children, seek sites with gradual lake entry. Amy K. noted at Big Lake State Forest Campground: "The lake was nice and there was a small beach. Enjoyed listening to the sandhill cranes every morning."
Educational opportunities: Forest Service ranger programs run weekends at some campgrounds from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering guided nature walks for children.
Campsite selection for families: Choose sites based on proximity to facilities when camping with young children. At Union River Rustic Outpost Camp, Art S. advises, "Site 1 was so secluded and private. It really felt like nobody else was out here. We had more than enough room to set up and could even have fit additional tents."
Recreational alternatives: Plan indoor backup activities for rainy days. Jenna L. notes about Union River, "Great spot for exploring the Porcupines and also for some privacy compared to the modern campground in the park. Night and day difference and you can use the amenities which are like 5mins away."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most rustic sites near Toivola accommodate smaller RVs only. One visitor to Lake Perrault observed there are "a few spots suitable for a small travel trailer, but most of them are better suited to tents."
Leveling challenges: Prepare with adequate leveling blocks. Scott D. from Union River Outpost found, "Site was not that level. If you were tent camping, you would likely be sleeping on a slope of some kind."
Water access points: No hookups exist at any dispersed sites. Fill water tanks at established campgrounds before heading to primitive locations. Art S. shares, "More amenities can be found at the main campground in the state park. We filled up with water there."
