Hoar Lake Boondocking in Copper Harbor, MI
Off-Grid Camping and Essentials
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Copper Harbor, MI 47.403264, -87.805754 Elevation: 666′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service (Official) This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Hoar Lake Boondocking in Copper Harbor: The road in is 4×4. Hoar Lake is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Hoar Lake.
We left the hustle and bustle of high rock bay and found this spot purely by accident it was beautiful but very secluded you better have all the supplies you need. We were heart broken with all the garbage left behind beer cans and broken glass after a little cleaning it was great. Stayed here with a passenger vehicle and a tent.
About This Location
If you’re after a quiet spot to boondock near Copper Harbor, MI, this Hoar Lake boondocking location might be just the ticket. Hoar Lake is a free, year-round camping area where you can soak up nature minus the crowds or campground fees. It’s a pretty simple place—no frills, but that’s exactly what draws folks who want to stay close to Lake Superior and get into things like ATV riding or fishing.
Getting to this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor is pretty straightforward. You’ll spot signs off Mandan Road pointing the way. Vehicles and trailers can get in, but honestly, the ground’s best for smaller rigs or anyone ready for some rustic camping. There aren’t amenities to speak of, so if you’re looking for an off-grid experience in the Keweenaw Peninsula, this is it.
Key Takeaways
- Hoar Lake offers free, year-round boondocking near Copper Harbor.
- The site’s accessible by vehicle but is best for smaller rigs or folks who come prepared.
- Outdoor activities like ATV riding and fishing are popular in the area.
Hoar Lake Boondocking In Copper Harbor, MI
Hoar Lake boondocking in Copper Harbor, Michigan, is a solid spot for boondocking if you want to dodge busy campgrounds. You’ll find free dispersed camping here, but only a handful of campsites. It’s open year-round, so you can drop by whenever the mood strikes.
You’ll need a 4×4 to get in since the road can get rough. Stays can last up to 14 days, which gives you plenty of time to unwind and take in the quiet around the lake.
There are about 1 to 5 campsites, so planning ahead is smart—and you’ll need to be ready for a primitive setup. Bring everything: water, firewood, the works. There’s not much in the way of amenities, honestly.
Activities? Hiking, fishing, and sometimes ATV riding nearby. The Hoar Lake Loop—a 3-mile trail for off-road vehicles—runs close by, but it’s not right in the camping area.
If you make the trip out here to this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor, you get to enjoy peaceful forest and lake views, all without the usual crowds. It’s a great spot to unplug and just be in nature for a while.
Things To Do
When you go to this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor, there’s plenty to keep you busy outdoors. Hiking’s a favorite. Trails at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park let you dip into both nature and a bit of local history.
You might want to cruise along Brockway Mountain Drive for some killer views of Lake Superior and the hills around it. It’s not a long drive, but the scenery’s worth every minute.
If you’re up for a walk, Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary is a gem—quiet trails winding through old-growth pines. Great for bird watching or just clearing your head.
Fishing or just hanging out by the water? High Rock Bay’s nearby and makes for a solid afternoon, especially when the breeze off the lake kicks up.
And if you want a little civilization, Copper Harbor itself has parks, some quirky little shops, and a couple of tiny museums. Hunter’s Point Park is a nice spot for a picnic or a quick stroll with lake views.
Here’s a quick hit list of things to do:
- Hike at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
- Drive Brockway Mountain Drive for the views
- Walk in Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary
- Fish or relax at High Rock Bay
- Visit Hunter’s Point Park for lake views
You’ll find enough at this Hoar Lake boondocking location to fill your days—if you want to, anyway.
Directions
To reach this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor, MI, start by heading into Copper Harbor itself. From town, take the main road north toward the lake.
If you’re coming up from the south, hop on Gay Road and follow it to Traverse Road. Turn right and keep going for a few miles toward the lake.
Hoar Lake is open all year, and camping’s free and dispersed. There’s a trail to the lake—about 3 miles, mainly used by ATVs, but it’ll get you to the campsites too.
Once you’re near the lake, look for clearings or open spots where you can park and set up. It’s rustic, so be ready for a lack of services.
Bring a map or GPS—trust me, it helps, since some parts of the trail are doubletrack and meant for off-road vehicles. A reliable navigation tool is a must.
You’ll find parking along the trail and by the lake shore. Stick to allowed areas and pack out what you bring in—let’s keep this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor nice for everyone.
Vehicle Access
When you’re driving out to Hoar Lake boondocking in Copper Harbor, keep in mind that the roads can get rough. High-clearance vehicles handle the terrain best. Take it slow and steady—your undercarriage will thank you.
You’ll get to Hoar Lake mainly via Mandan Road, which leads right to the camping area. The road can get narrow, muddy, or rocky, especially after rain, so be ready for that.
If you’re bringing an OHV, there’s a 3-mile trail called Hoar Lake Loop nearby. It’s open to ATVs, ORVs, and OHVs, and you can go both directions. It’s a fun way to see more of the area beyond camp.
Stick to the local policy: dispersed camping only, no facilities. Keep vehicles on marked paths to avoid tearing up the land. You can camp up to 15 nights between May 1 and mid-October.
| Vehicle Type | Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| High-clearance trucks | Recommended | For rough, rocky or muddy roads |
| Standard cars | Not recommended | May struggle with terrain |
| OHVs (ATVs, ORVs) | Allowed on designated trails | Use only marked routes |
Respect the vehicle rules and you’ll help keep this Hoar Lake boondocking location safe and open for everyone.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
You can bring RVs and camping trailers to this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor—but, don’t expect hookups for water, electric, or sewer. You’ll need to be self-contained if you want a comfortable stay.
Most spots work for small to mid-sized RVs and trailers. Bigger rigs might have trouble with the natural terrain and the tighter access roads. It’s worth double-checking your vehicle size before you go, just to be safe.
Pack all your essentials: fresh water, food, waste disposal gear. With no facilities, you’re on your own for supplies, and it’s important to follow Leave No Trace.
If you want hookups, Lake Fanny Hooe Resort nearby has water and electric, plus picnic tables and fire pits—pretty nice after a stretch of boondocking.
Here’s a quick checklist for RV and trailer camping at Hoar Lake:
| Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
| Water | Bring your own supply |
| Electricity | None available on-site |
| Waste Disposal | Pack out grey and black water |
| Site Access | Best for small to mid-sized rigs |
| Camp Equipment | Picnic table/fire pit not provided |
If you prep well, this Hoar Lake boondocking location gives you a peaceful camping experience in Copper Harbor’s wild setting.
Paid Or Permit Sites
At this Hoar Lake boondocking location in Copper Harbor, you won’t find paid campsites or any permit hassles. The place is managed as a free dispersed camping area, so there’s no need to reserve or shell out cash to stay here. Honestly, that’s a relief—it makes spontaneous trips so much simpler.
Nearby parks, like Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, do charge fees and usually want you to book or grab a permit in advance. The state runs Fort Wilkins, and they’re pretty strict about collecting for camping and extra services. If you’re after things like toilets, picnic tables, or a tidy campground, those parks might be the way to go.
If you’re camping out at this Hoar Lake boondocking location or similar free spots, you’ll want to stick to local rules. That means following “Leave No Trace” and not overstaying—14 days is the usual max. Agencies do keep an eye on these places to protect the land and make sure everyone gets a fair shot at using them.
Thinking about camping in the official state or national parks around Copper Harbor? It’s smart to check in with whoever runs the park before you head out. Most want you to book online or pay at a kiosk, and permit rules can really change from spot to spot. I’d always take a look at the park’s website or call the local office just to be sure.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Mid-sized RV Camping Tent Camping OHV Swimming Winter Sports |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
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