Lake Perrault Boondocking in Toivola, MI
Guide for Remote Camping Enthusiasts
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Toivola, MI 47.029353, -88.731405 Elevation: 1257′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – DNR Managed Area (Unofficial) This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Lake Perrault Boondocking in Toivola: The road in is Gravel and 0,25 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 40 feet.
Lake Perrault (“pear-oh”) sits quietly just off of M-26 in Adams Township, about 15-20 minutes south of Houghton.
The lake has no amenities other than some fire rings, but the closest resources are about 10 minutes to the north of the lake in South Range, where you’ll find a couple gas stations and some warm food.
There are no signs in the area of Lake Perrault that say camping is prohibited and none that say it is a designated campground, but it is obvious that people do camp all around there.
There are 3-6 fire rings, some established, some not so much. There is room for campers and RVs, but nothing over 40 feet should attempt to access the sight, as turning around when you reach the lake could be quite a challenge.
There are quite a few level and clear areas near the lake. There are signs that this could be a place where locals come to party on the weekends, with the occasional beer can and isolated pockets of broken glass buried under the leaf litter, but nothing too crazy.
Two trails are in the area, one built within the Robert Brown Sanctuary on a boardwalk leading through the Perrault Fen for about 0.5 miles, and the other going around the lake itself, measuring about 1 mile. The lake trail is rustic, but should be easy for most people. The area is surrounded by dense Eastern Hemlock forest, which attracts much wildlife, so don’t be surprised to see a few deer during your stay.
Finding the entrance can be difficult, but it is the only road near the area that turns off M-26, so keeping an eye out for it should suffice.
About This Location
Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola, MI, is a quiet spot perfect for boondocking lovers who want to enjoy nature away from busy campgrounds. This location offers simple, free camping with easy road access and several sites suitable for tents and RVs up to 45 feet. The Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola is peaceful, with a nice view of the lake, and it gives us a chance to disconnect and enjoy outdoor activities.
The road in is gravel, but it’s not a long stretch—most vehicles can handle it without much fuss. You’ll spot a handful of established campsites with fire rings, so it’s easy to settle in and get a fire going if you want. Since the area’s pretty dispersed and not crowded, it’s ideal for folks who just want to chill without a bunch of rules or campground fees breathing down their necks.
You can wander around Lake Perrault, soak in the quiet, and camp out under the stars at Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola. Whether you’re rolling up in a van, an RV, or just pitching a tent, this place keeps things simple and natural, yet it’s not far from the highway or town if you need to make a supply run.
Key Takeways
- Free, easy-access boondocking right by a quiet lake
- Sites work for tents and big RVs, each with a basic fire ring
- Super peaceful—great for anyone who just needs a break outdoors
Lake Perrault Boondocking In Toivola, MI
Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola, Michigan, and it really does feel remote. We found it quiet—no crowds, no constant traffic—just the lake and the woods.
There are maybe 5 or 6 spots to pick from, some with old fire rings left behind. Smaller rigs fit anywhere, and a couple of sites can handle bigger vehicles. You can park pretty close to the water, surrounded by trees, which is a nice touch.
This Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola doesn’t have hookups or amenities, so you’ve got to bring everything you need for a self-reliant stay. There are trails nearby if you want to poke around the woods or just stretch your legs. And even though the highway isn’t far, it still feels like you’re out there.
Key Information:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Toivola, Michigan |
| Number of Sites | 5-6 dispersed campsites |
| Vehicle Access | Suitable for small to medium RVs |
| Amenities | None (boondocking only) |
| Nearby Activities | Hiking, lake views, fishing |
If you’re comfortable with primitive camping, Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola is a solid choice for some peace and quiet.
Things To Do
At Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola, fishing is a big draw. You can spend a lazy afternoon trying your luck from the shore or maybe take a small boat out if you’ve got one.
There are a few small trails nearby—nothing fancy, but good enough for a walk and a little wildlife spotting. It’s quiet, and you might see a deer or two if you’re patient.
Camping is pretty straightforward at Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola. You can set up a tent or park a small RV in one of the available spots. Each site has a fire ring, so you can cook up something or just hang out by the flames as it gets dark.
The sunsets over the lake are honestly worth sticking around for. Sitting by the water while the sky changes color? That’s hard to beat.
Just a heads up—there’s no drinking water or power here. Make sure you bring enough supplies for however long you’re staying.
Directions
Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola, Michigan, right off highway M-26. It’s not hard to find if you’re paying attention.
If you’re coming from Houghton, drive south on M-26 for about 15 or 20 minutes. The lake’s in Adams Township, and you’ll spot signs for camping as you get closer.
Keep an eye out for a small turnoff or dirt road near the lake’s edge—it’s easy to miss if you’re going too fast. Look for fire rings or other signs of campers if you’re not sure you’re in the right place.
There are 5 or 6 campsites with space for tents and a couple of bigger rigs. Fire rings mark the spots, and there’s enough room to park and set up.
You won’t find any amenities out here, so pack everything you’ll need. It’s peaceful, but you’ve got to be ready for basic camping while at Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola.
A GPS helps, but honestly, sticking to M-26 south of Houghton is the easiest way. Mobile maps work too if you want to double-check your route.
Vehicle Access
You get to Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola by taking a short gravel road off the paved highway. It’s only a quarter mile or so, but it’s got some potholes—nothing crazy, just go slow.
Most vehicles, even bigger rigs, can get in without much trouble. There are a couple of spots for RVs up to 45 feet, and the rest work better for smaller setups or tents.
The main road’s easy to spot from the highway, but if it’s been raining, check the road conditions first. Nobody wants to get stuck in the mud out here.
Parking is informal—expect gravel or uneven ground. Most folks pick a spot near an old fire ring and call it good.
Since this is all government land, there aren’t any paved pads or marked lots. You haul everything in and out, and it’s on us to keep things clean and leave no trace.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola works best for smaller to mid-size RVs and trailers. The access road is gravel, about a quarter mile from the pavement, so if you’ve got a bigger rig, just take it slow and watch for tight turns.
You’ll find a couple of sites wide enough for RVs up to 45 feet, but most are better for smaller vehicles. Fire rings are scattered around, left by previous campers—handy for cooking or just hanging out by the fire.
There’s no electric hookup, no water, and not much in the way of services nearby. You’ll need to bring everything: water, batteries, maybe a generator if you want power.
Camping at Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola is all about the basics. No pads, no hookups, just find a flat spot and set up. Pack in, pack out—don’t leave trash or mess behind.
If you’re towing or driving a big rig, just make sure your vehicle can handle gravel and a few tight spots. Plan ahead, and you’ll be fine getting to this quiet little spot near Toivola, Michigan.
Paid Or Permit Sites
At Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola, you’ll mostly find dispersed, free camping spots. Still, a few areas do require a permit if you want to camp there legally. It’s honestly a good idea to double-check local rules before you show up—especially if you’re thinking about an extended stay or eyeing a particular spot.
You won’t see a developed campground here—no rows of paid sites, no fancy hookups. Instead, you’ll stumble across primitive sites, and they’re about as bare-bones as it gets. There’s no water, no electricity, and the roads can be rough or even nonexistent in places.
Bringing a big RV? Only a handful of spots at Lake Perrault boondocking in Toivola can handle something up to 45 feet, and even then, amenities are pretty much limited to a fire ring, maybe a picnic table if you get lucky. Honestly, it’s best to come ready for a pretty rustic experience.
Before you set up camp, just make sure you’re not missing any permit requirements. Sometimes local officials want to keep tabs on usage or protect the area. You can usually grab permits online or swing by a ranger station nearby, but it’s worth sorting out in advance.
Key things to remember:
- Most sites are free, but some need a permit
- Facilities are minimal—think fire rings and maybe some parking
- A few sites fit RVs up to 45 feet
- Always check permits and rules before you go
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| AMEN | ACT |
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