Quiet road access and forested state forest land define the experience at Pigeon River State Forest dispersed camping, a pull-off style site managed by the MIDNR Forest Resources Division. Daytime traffic on the access road stays sparse, and night hours bring little to no vehicle noise. Campfires, pets, and alcohol are all permitted. Campers wanting a developed alternative nearby can look at Elkwood Campground to the northeast, or browse camping near Pigeon River Country State Forest Area for additional options across the region.
Description
You may camp for no fee anywhere on state forest land as long as: The area is not posted “No Camping.” You are at least a mile from a designated state forest campground. You are at least 600 ft from the posted sinkhole lakes in the PRC.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsPigeon River State Forest dispersed camping is located in Michigan near Vanderbilt
Coordinates
45.196543472593255 N
84.58885324810129 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageLast on 5/25/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageLast on 5/25/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Traverse City, MI
- 1 hr 45 min from Midland, MI
- 1 hr 47 min from Bay City, MI
- 1 hr 57 min from Saginaw, MI
