FR 360 Boondocking in Marenisco, MI
Essential Guide for Off-Grid Camping
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ADDRESS |
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Marenisco, MI 46.66874, -89.61162 Elevation: 1145′ |
MANAGEMENT |
Public – Forest Service (Unofficial) This is a FREE campsite. |
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Previous Reviews:
FR 360 Boondocking in Marenisco: The road in is Dirt. Pull off site forest service road 360 is open I imagine from snow melt off to first snow. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay Whatever national forest regulations be at Pull off site forest service road 360.
Was looking for any dispersed sites near the porkies because camping around others isn’t ideal and I like exploring. I Found this. Very basic site with a fire ring and room for a vehicle and a tent. Would not recommend for a RV but is perfect size for car camping or a camper van. I had a single bar of ATT service here. This is the only place I found off fsr 360 that isn’t sleeping in your vehicle on the side of the road. I hope they open the rest of the road someday because looking at gps there should be some better potential sites past the gate.
About This Location
FR 360 Boondocking in Marenisco, MI offers a quiet, free camping experience tucked away in nature. If you’re itching to escape crowded campgrounds and get a bit closer to the wild near Lake Gogebic, this spot is hard to beat. You won’t find hookups here, so it’s best for self-contained vehicles or those who really want that rustic, unplugged vibe.
Most vehicles—even RVs and camping trailers—can get in, though if you’ve got a smaller rig, you’ll probably have an easier time. The location puts you right in the mix for fishing, hiking, and poking around the national forest. So, if you want off-grid camping with plenty of outdoor options, FR 360 boondocking is worth a look.
Nearby county and state parks offer more amenities if you need them, but FR 360 is all about keeping things simple and peaceful. It helps to know what you’re getting into before you head out.
Key Takeaways
- Free, no-hookup camping at FR 360 near Marenisco
- The site works for several vehicle types but leans toward more rugged setups
- Outdoor activities and nearby parks make it a solid base
FR 360 Boondocking In Marenisco, MI
FR 360 runs through a big stretch of public land near Marenisco, Michigan, and it’s a favorite for boondockers looking to avoid developed campgrounds. You’ll find quiet FR 360 boondocking spots tucked in the forest, accessible for highway-legal vehicles.
Here, you skip the campsite fees and just settle in—no amenities, no water, no electric. You’ve got to come ready, with all your own supplies, food, water, and a way to handle your trash.
A few basics to remember about FR 360 boondocking:
Feature | Details |
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Type | Dispersed camping |
Facilities | None (no water, no electricity) |
Vehicle Access | Highway legal vehicles only |
Nearby Amenities | Lake Gogebic County Park (electric sites) |
Location | Near Marenisco, MI |
Lake Gogebic County Park sits nearby if you want to mix in some hookups, but for a more remote feel, FR 360 boondocking is the real deal.
Follow the local rules, pack out everything you bring, and try to leave the place better than you found it. Respect quiet hours, keep the noise down, and don’t trash the landscape. That’s kind of the deal if you want to keep enjoying places like this.
Things To Do
Around FR 360 boondocking, there’s actually a decent amount to do. Lake Gogebic State Park is just a few miles away, with 360 acres and nearly a mile of lakefront—plenty of space for fishing, hiking, or just soaking in the lakeside calm.
If you’re up for a little drive, the Little Finland Cultural Center is about 25 miles away. It’s a quirky spot to check out Finnish heritage and local history.
Adventure Copper Mine tours are roughly 40 miles out, and they’ll give you a peek into the region’s mining past.
Elmer’s Fun Park is another option if you’re with family or just want some lighthearted entertainment.
Honestly, you can use FR 360 boondocking as a basecamp for all sorts of Upper Peninsula exploring. Whether you’re after outdoor adventure or a bit of culture, there’s something nearby.
Summary of nearby activities:
Activity | Distance from Marenisco | Description |
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Lake Gogebic State Park | About 5 miles | Fishing, hiking, lake views |
Little Finland | 25 miles | Finnish culture and history |
Adventure Copper Mine | 40 miles | Mining tours |
Elmer’s Fun Park | 25-40 miles | Family fun and light recreation |
Directions
To get to FR 360 boondocking, start in Marenisco, Michigan, and head west on State Highway M-64. Watch for signs for forest service roads near Gogebic County.
After leaving M-64, turn onto Forest Road 360. This is your pull-off for boondocking. The road can be a bit rough, so if your vehicle sits higher, you’ll be happier.
You’ll set up camp along this forest service road, away from busy campgrounds. Don’t forget to bring everything—there aren’t any facilities out here.
For emergencies or if you get lost, Lake Gogebic State Park is close. You can reach them at 906-842-3341.
Keep an eye out for posted signs and respect any seasonal restrictions or closures. The forest service manages the area, so rules can change.
Check the weather and road conditions before you go. The Upper Peninsula can surprise you, especially in spring and fall.
Bring a good map or GPS with the right coordinates. Cell service can be spotty, so don’t rely on your phone alone.
Quick route summary:
Step | Action |
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1 | Start in Marenisco, MI |
2 | Take State Highway M-64 west |
3 | Turn onto Forest Road 360 |
4 | Drive to designated pull-off |
5 | Set up camp and enjoy boondocking |
Vehicle Access
You’ll reach the FR 360 boondocking area by driving down a forest service road. Most vehicles—cars, trucks, RVs—can make it, though the road’s unpaved. Usually, it’s in decent shape, but it’s still a forest road.
There’s a pull-off for parking, and there’s enough space for bigger rigs. Just make sure you’re not blocking the road.
No hookups or RV services here. It’s all self-contained camping, so bring everything you need.
Definitely check the weather before you head out. Rain can turn the road into a mess.
Some quick vehicle notes:
- Road type: Unpaved forest service road
- Vehicle types: Cars, trucks, RVs, motorhomes
- Parking: Pull-off site next to the road
- Services: No electric or water hookups
- Caution: Road may be rough in bad weather
If you keep these in mind, you’ll have a much smoother trip.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
Camping at the FR 360 boondocking area near Marenisco, MI, you’ll see all sorts of RVs and trailers—5th Wheels, Travel Trailers, Popups. Rental prices usually start around $60 to $70 a night, depending on what you get.
If you really need electricity, Lake Gogebic County Park has you covered with 53 electric sites (30 to 50 amps). That’s handy if you can’t live without your coffee maker or need to charge up devices.
For boondocking, though, you’re on your own—no hookups. Most folks bring extra batteries, solar panels, and plenty of water. Planning ahead is key if you want to stay off-grid.
When you’re picking a trailer or RV, think about the road conditions on FR 360. Smaller, more nimble rigs are easier to handle on rough or narrow roads.
Here’s a quick trailer comparison:
Trailer Type | Typical Price/Night | Power Hookups Available | Suitability for Boondocking |
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5th Wheel | $70+ | Yes | Moderate |
Travel Trailer | $60+ | Sometimes | Good |
Popup Trailer | Varies | Rarely | Best |
A little planning goes a long way out here. If you know what to expect, you can actually relax and enjoy your time in Marenisco and the Upper Peninsula.
Paid Or Permit Sites
If you’re camping near the FR 360 boondocking area in Marenisco, MI, you’ve got a few paid and permit-required options to mull over. Lake Gogebic County Park stands out as a local favorite, offering a pavilion, picnic tables, a playground, and boating access.
Boating at Lake Gogebic County Park costs $3 per day or you can just grab a $20 annual pass. The park sits right on the lake, so if you’re itching to get out on the water, it’s pretty convenient.
Lake Gogebic State Park sits close to Marenisco too. It’s a 360-acre spread with camping sites—though you’ll probably need a reservation or to pay a fee. It’s smart to call ahead and see what their current rates and rules look like before you show up.
Pomeroy Lake Campground, tucked in the Ottawa National Forest, is another choice. These campgrounds usually ask for a permit or a fee, but you’ll get more facilities than you would with dispersed camping.
Location | Type | Fee/Permit Info |
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Lake Gogebic County Park | Day use & camping | $3/day or $20 annual boating pass |
Lake Gogebic State Park | Camping | Fees vary; reservation recommended |
Pomeroy Lake Campground | Camping | Permit or fee required |
Double-check current fees and availability before you go. Nobody likes surprises when they’re just trying to relax outdoors.
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AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
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Fire Ring | RV Camping Tent Camping Hiking Wildlife Viewing Stargazing |
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Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
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Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
Leave No Trace
State Specific Information Links
Michigan Park Service
Michigan Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources
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