Dispersed camping near Trout Creek, Michigan extends into the Ottawa National Forest where most sites sit on small, secluded lakes. Seasonal temperatures range from summer highs around 80°F to winter lows well below freezing, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. Camping permits are not typically required for Forest Service lands, though stays are limited to 14 consecutive days.
What to do
Paddling and swimming: Wolf Lake Campsite offers sandy shoreline access perfect for water activities. "I love this campsite. The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach," notes Kay K. about Wolf Lake Campsite.
Hiking nearby trails: Several sites connect to forest pathways. "There is hiking trail access from campsite," mentions a review of dispersed sites near FR 2140. Winter hiking is also possible when snow conditions permit.
Wildlife viewing: Loons make regular appearances on the smaller lakes. "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons," reports one camper. Bird watching opportunities are abundant throughout spring and summer months.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the solitude of these remote sites. "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling," says Kay K. about Woodbury Lake Campsite.
Ease of access: Some sites offer surprisingly good accessibility despite remote locations. "The campsite is just off a paved road making it easily accessible," writes Kay K. about Indian Lake.
Space configurations: Sites vary in size and layout. "Small campsite along paved road, fire ring and picnic table, wilderness toilet. I had 8 foot pop up could fit a 20 footer easy or tent camp," explains a camper at Wolf Lake.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires navigating rough terrain. "Road to get in is narrow and pot holed," cautions a reviewer about Bose Lake Campsite.
Motor restrictions: Some lakes prohibit motorized watercraft. A camper at Harriet Lake notes, "No motor lake," making these waters ideal for quiet paddling but limiting fishing options.
Unpredictable occupancy: Sites operate on first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. "My fiancé and I (plus our dog) are doing a week of traveling out of our sprinter van through the UP. We stumbled upon this location through this app. This was a Monday evening and every site was being used," reports one Lake Perrault visitor.
Site variety: Each location offers different amenities. "Two sites on lake some distance apart. Sand bottom on shore, picknick table and fire ring. No fee for camping can stay 14 days," explains a camper at Robinson Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Look for sites with gentle shorelines. "This remote site has a sandy beach great for swimming or paddling," notes a visitor to Woodbury Lake Campsite.
Wildlife educational opportunities: Several lakes offer wildlife viewing suitable for children. "The small lake belongs to a pair of loons that will share their fish and sandy beach," mentions a camper at Wolf Lake.
Site selection for safety: Consider walk-in requirements when traveling with small children. "Tents only. Short walk to campsite only one on lake," notes a visitor to Three Johns Lake Dispersed, which might be challenging with very young kids.
Lost items alert: Be mindful of belongings at campsites. "Believe we left a small stuffed squirrel there, if it's found let me know, it's a sort of family heirloom," mentions one Lake Perrault camper.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most sites accommodate only small trailers. "A single campsite can park next to tent only," notes a camper about McKinley Lake Dispersed.
Parking configurations: Verify parking areas before attempting to navigate with larger vehicles. "It's intended for tents, but a small trailer might fit in the parking area," mentions Kay K. about Indian Lake.
Clearance requirements: Access roads often require higher clearance vehicles. "Nice spot to camp can fit trailer in parking area. There are two picknick tables and fire ring," reports a Woodbury Lake visitor.
Winter accessibility: Some areas remain accessible for cold-weather camping. "Winter camped here, was a nice spot pic nik table, fire ring, wilderness toilet," notes a visitor to FR 2140 during colder months.
