Robbins Pond Boondocking in Bruce Crossing, MI
Remote Camping and Outdoor Adventure
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Forest Highway 6964 Bruce Crossing, MI 46.381097, -89.228297 Elevation: 1309′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Forest Service This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Robbins Pond Boondocking: This deep woods dispersed campground is located on Robbins Pond, a well known trout pond. It features three campsites and is located in the northeast corner of the Watersmeet Ranger District. Currently there are limited services provided at this campground.
Fishing: Robins Pond located on the Watersmeet Ranger District in the southern portion of Ontonagon County is the ideal trout getaway. This large pond is ideal for those that want to be out in the deep woods to fish while surrounded by nature. There is a small campground next to the pond, however there are limited services provided.
Directions: From Watersmeet, Mi., travel north on US 45 approximately 5 ½ miles, turn left onto Old US 45 and travel approximately ½ mile to FR 5230, turn left onto FR 5230 and travel approximately 4 miles to FR 6964, turn left onto FR 6964 and the campground is on the left.
From Bruce Crossing Mi., take US 45 approximately 13 ½ miles south, turn right onto Old US 45 and travel ½ mile to FR 5230, turn left onto FR 5230 and travel approximately 4 miles to FR 6964, turn left onto FR 6964 and the campground is on the left.
About This Location
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to boondock near Bruce Crossing, MI, Robbins Pond boondocking could be just the thing. Tucked away in the Ottawa National Forest, this place has a handful of campsites right beside a small, peaceful pond that’s known for lake trout. Robbins Pond is perfect for folks who want a simple, no-frills camping experience, just surrounded by nature.
The pond itself is great for fishing, swimming, and paddling, so you can get out on the water without bumping elbows with a bunch of other campers. The deep woods all around the pond really add to the sense of privacy and calm. It’s not far from the main road, but it feels like you’ve wandered off the grid.
Getting to the site works best for smaller vehicles, and with just a few dispersed campsites, you’ll need to be comfortable with minimal facilities. It’s all about soaking up the quiet and the scenery—no reservations needed.
Key Takeways
- Robbins Pond gives you a peaceful, natural spot for boondocking near Bruce Crossing.
- You can fish, swim, or paddle right at the pond.
- Campsites are basic and work best for smaller vehicles—don’t expect fancy amenities.
Robbins Pond Boondocking In Bruce Crossing, MI
Robbins Pond boondocking sits quietly in the heart of Ottawa National Forest. It’s about as close to true boondocking as you can get—no hookups, no restrooms, nothing fancy. If you want to escape the city and just be in nature, this is the spot.
There are three primitive campsites near the water, spaced out for privacy. The thick forest all around and the trout in the pond make it a relaxing place to hang out.
It’s all free and dispersed here. You won’t find marked roads, trash bins, or running water. You’ll need to bring everything—water, food, waste bags, you name it.
The area works well for tents and smaller RVs or vans. Bigger rigs might struggle with access. Don’t forget the bug spray, and it’s worth checking the weather before you head out.
A quick glance at the basics:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northeast corner of Robbins Pond |
| Number of Sites | 3 dispersed campsites |
| Fees | Free |
| Facilities | None (boondocking only) |
| Activities | Fishing, hiking, wildlife watching |
If you like solitude and just being out in nature, Robbins Pond boondocking fits the bill.
Things To Do
There’s plenty to keep you busy at Robbins Pond boondocking if you like the outdoors. Fishing is a big draw—this pond’s got trout, especially lake trout. You can easily lose track of time casting a line here.
Swimming? Absolutely. The water’s calm, so it’s a good spot to cool off after a walk in the woods.
Bring a kayak or canoe if you’ve got one. Paddling lets you really soak in the quiet and maybe spot some wildlife.
The woods around the pond are worth exploring too. You’ll find trails and plenty of chances to see birds or other critters.
Evenings are for campfires. With just a few sites, it stays pretty quiet, and you can actually hear the forest.
Here’s a quick list of activities:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Trout fishing, especially lake trout |
| Swimming | Safe swimming in calm waters |
| Paddling | Canoeing and kayaking available |
| Hiking | Trails through deep woods |
| Camping | Small, quiet campground |
You won’t run out of simple ways to enjoy your time at Robbins Pond boondocking.
Directions
To get to Robbins Pond boondocking from Bruce Crossing, hop on US Highway 45 south. Drive about 13 and a half miles, then turn right onto Old US 45.
Keep going for about half a mile, then look for Forest Road 5230 and take a left.
Once you’re on Forest Road 5230, just follow it straight to Robbins Pond. That road leads right to the boondocking area.
If you’re coming from Watersmeet, head north on US 45 for about 5 and a half miles. Turn left onto Old US 45, go half a mile, and you’ll hit Forest Road 5230.
It helps to use a GPS or a map app with the Robbins Pond address in Bruce Crossing, MI 49912.
Definitely check road conditions before you leave, especially for Forest Road 5230. It’s a forest road, so it can get rough.
Vehicle Access
Start from Bruce Crossing, MI, and take US 45 south for about 13.5 miles. That’s your main route to the campsites.
Watch for the turn onto a forest road—sometimes marked as FR 5230 or Old US 45. The roads after the highway are gravel and dirt, with some rough patches, so take it slow.
Your vehicle should handle gravel and dirt roads. High clearance helps, but isn’t always a must. Always a good idea to check local road reports, especially if it’s been raining or snowing.
Parking’s limited—just three campsites near the pond. You can park close to the water, but space is tight, so bigger RVs or trucks will need to maneuver carefully.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting point | Bruce Crossing, MI |
| Highway used | US 45 south |
| Distance traveled | About 13.5 miles |
| Road type after Hwy | Gravel, forest roads (FR 5230) |
| Parking | Limited spots, three campsites |
Try to arrive while it’s still light out. Those forest roads aren’t always well marked, and it’s just easier to find your spot before dark.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
You can camp at Robbins Pond boondocking with an RV or trailer, but options are limited. Only a couple of campsites can fit bigger vehicles, so it’s a bit of a squeeze.
There’s a big loop driveway, which makes turning and parking a lot easier for mobile homes or 5th wheels.
Don’t expect hookups or dump stations. You’ll need to be self-sufficient—bring your own water, power, and a way to handle waste.
The campground covers about 19 acres along a state highway, so it’s easy to get to, but you might hear some traffic now and then.
Here’s a quick look at what to expect if you’re bringing an RV or trailer:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Campsites | 2-3 RV/trailer sites |
| Vehicle Size | Mobile homes and 5th wheels can fit |
| Driveway | Large loop driveway for easy turning |
| Utilities | No hookups or dump stations |
| Location | Along state highway |
Before you go, double-check your vehicle’s size against the available space, and make sure you’ve got what you need for off-grid camping. That’s really the key to a good stay at Robbins Pond boondocking.
Paid Or Permit Sites
If you’re planning to camp around Robbins Pond boondocking in Bruce Crossing, MI, you might need a permit. These permits help keep things in order and support the environment—at least, that’s the idea.
We ran into a mix of sites near Robbins Pond, most of them on government land. Some are free, but others ask for a permit, especially if you’re staying a while or want to fish.
Definitely check ahead for any fees or special rules. Permits usually don’t cost much, and you can grab them online or at a local ranger station.
A few things to keep in mind about permits near Robbins Pond:
- You might need a permit for camping or fishing.
- Fees change from spot to spot, but they’re usually not bad.
- Permits help keep the land and campsites in decent shape.
- Some primitive sites let you camp without a permit, but you won’t get many services.
Honestly, it’s just easier to plan ahead so you don’t run into any weird surprises. I’d call the Ottawa National Forest office or check their website before you head out.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water Restrooms |
RV Camping Tent Camping Fishing Wildlife Viewing Stargazing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
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Bureau of Land Management
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Michigan Park Service
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Department of Natural Resources