6 Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking Locations Guide: Tahquamenon Falls State Park sits near Newberry, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula. If you’re into more freedom and don’t need all the bells and whistles, this area’s got a few solid boondocking options.
The official campgrounds—like Lower Falls—charge fees and offer some amenities, but for real boondocking, we usually poke around just outside those main areas. Dispersed camping’s allowed on some public land nearby, and that’s where things get interesting.
Not far from Newberry, you’ll find public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service with more than adequate Tahquamenon Falls boondocking. These places let us set up camp with no hookups or running water, so we have to come ready. They’re usually quiet, tucked into the woods, and pretty close to the Tahquamenon River and some great trails.
Some highlights of boondocking here:
- No water or electric hookups
- Campsites aren’t marked
- Hiking and fishing close by
- Peaceful, not crowded
We always pack in everything we’ll need—water, food, waste bags—and stick to Leave No Trace.
Before heading out, we double-check local rules, since some spots have seasonal restrictions or require permits. Tahquamenon Falls boondocking gives us that rustic, unplugged vibe, plus it’s only a short hop to the waterfalls and other cool stuff in the area.
Directions
To get to the Tahquamenon Falls boondocking areas, we usually start in Paradise, Michigan—the closest town. From there, we drive east on Hovey Lake Road (USFS 2473). This stretch leads right to a handful of primitive spots.
Don’t take Blueberry Lane south, even if some maps suggest it. Just stick to Hovey Lake Road for about a quarter mile, and you’ll spot the right areas.
The GPS coordinates are roughly 46.641113, – (definitely use your own GPS for precision). Most roads out here are gravel or dirt, but we’ve managed with both standard vehicles and bigger RVs.
Services are super limited, so we bring all our own supplies. No hookups, no water—just the basics.
If you want more amenities, the state park campgrounds are an option. But for free or primitive camping, Hovey Lake Road is where we usually end up.
Keep your eyes peeled for road signs near the falls, since these boondocking spots don’t have clear markers. A GPS or detailed map saves a lot of headaches.
Honestly, a good navigation system makes finding these out-of-the-way places way less stressful.
Vehicle Access And Pricing
Tahquamenon Falls State Park charges a vehicle entry fee. Michigan residents pay $17 per vehicle or $11 per motorcycle for a day pass. Non-residents pay $9 for a day pass or $34 for an annual pass.
If you live in Michigan, it’s worth grabbing the Recreation Passport when you renew your license tabs. It’s $12 per vehicle or $6 per motorcycle and covers entry to a bunch of state parks, including this one.
Camping spots usually require reservations, and a full hookup site starts at $20 per night. Some first-come, first-served spots go for about $16 per night.
Boondocking areas don’t have water or electric, and the rules can be a little different. If you’ve got a big RV, check size limits—some places handle rigs up to 40-45 feet.
Here’s a quick pricing rundown:
| Fee Type | Michigan Residents | Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Day Pass | $17 | $9 |
| Motorcycle Day Pass | $11 | — |
| Annual Pass | $12 (Recreation Passport) | $34 |
| Campsite Full Hookups | From $20 per night | Same |
| First-come Sites | About $16 per night | Same |
Booking ahead during busy times is smart—spots go fast.
Helpful Boondocking Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
Boondocking Recipes for 1000’s Of Camping Meals
Leave No Trace
State Specific Information Links
Michigan Park Service
Michigan Fish and Game
Department of Natural Resources
Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking Locations
Free Boondocking Spots
Lake Michigan Scenic Pull-Off Boondocking in Naubinway, MI
46.09735, -85.397656
The Lake Michigan Recreation Area in Manistee, MI, gives outdoor lovers a fantastic spot along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. You’ll find a big campground with four loops right on the lakefront, so it’s easy to get to the beaches and hiking trails. Whether you’re camping or just stopping by for the day, there’s plenty here if you want to soak up nature or jump into water activities.
Nearby, we can wander through places like Magoon Creek Natural Area, which has some really cool dunes and forests. The area even runs educational programs—honestly, it’s a good way to learn about local wildlife and the erosion that’s always shaping Lake Michigan’s edge. You can roll in with your RV or trailer, no problem; they’ve made it pretty convenient for all sorts of visitors.
You could spend your time here just walking quietly, fishing, or swimming either in the lake or over at Magoon Creek Park. It’s a nice mix if you’re looking for different ways to get outside in Michigan. The site stays well-managed, too—permits are required if you’re staying overnight, which helps keep things safe and tidy for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Four campground loops with lakefront access
- Natural areas and educational programs nearby
- Vehicle access, including for RVs and trailers
Shelldrake Lake Dam Boondocking in Paradise, MI
46.71258, -85.06436
Shelldrake Lake Dam in Paradise, Michigan, offers a one-of-a-kind Tahquamenon Falls boondocking experience for folks who like real off-grid camping. Even though the official campground’s been closed for a while, there are still a handful of accessible sites where you can camp—no fees, no permits, just you and the woods. It’s a peaceful, natural spot perfect for wildlife watching, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
You’ll get there by a dirt road that’s doable for most vehicles—no need to own a monster truck or anything. The area has next to no services, so you’ll want to come prepared and self-sufficient. For people who’d rather skip the crowds and the fees of traditional campgrounds, Shelldrake Lake Dam is a refreshing option.
Key Takeways
- Camping sites near Shelldrake Dam are free and open for boondocking.
- The area’s great for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
- Standard vehicles can handle the dirt road in.
Newberry Truck Stop in Newberry, MI
46.334462, -85.509736
Newberry Truck Stop in Newberry, MI, gives drivers and travelers a solid spot for essential services. You’ll find diesel fuel, truck parking, and DEF fuel here—pretty much what most folks rolling through the Upper Peninsula are after. It’s right off State Highway M28, so you can’t really miss it if you’re passing through.
They’ve got more than just the basics—towing and truck repair are available too, so if you run into trouble, you don’t have to go far for help. There’s a mix of parking spaces and practical facilities, which makes it a handy rest stop for big rigs, RVs, and trailers.
Key Takeways
- Fuel, parking, and repair services are all here.
- You can get to it easily from the main highway.
- Facilities work for a variety of vehicles and needs.
Paid Campgrounds and Permit Camping Sites
Wild Cat Road Boondocking in Paradise, MI
46.763213, -85.021967
Wild Cat Road near Paradise, Michigan, is kind of a legendary Tahquamenon Falls boondocking spot if you’re into raw, no-frills camping right up against nature. We get to camp for free here, skip the fees, and enjoy easy access to Lake Superior and the thick forests nearby. The road itself? Not always friendly—deep sand and snow can be a pain, but plenty of AWD rigs and camper vans manage just fine.
Boondocking here means leaning into solitude and wildness. You might spot black bears or, honestly, just a ton of ladybugs if you’re lucky, all in the hush of the Chequamegon National Forest. No permits, no official campsites—just open land for folks who want to dodge the crowds and soak up the stars.
Getting to Wild Cat Road isn’t complicated, but you do need to pay attention, especially if you’re hauling a big RV or trailer. If you’re craving that untouched wilderness vibe without busy campgrounds or a bunch of rules, this place delivers.
Key Takeaways
- Wild Cat Road gives us free, quiet boondocking close to Lake Superior.
- The area has wildlife and sits right by the Chequamegon National Forest.
- Access isn’t always easy—AWD vehicles and camper vans are your best bet.
The Widewaters Permit Site in Paradise, MI
46.746331, -85.1194
The Widewaters Permit Site in Paradise, Michigan, offers a chance to enjoy peaceful Tahquamenon Falls boondocking spot in a natural setting. You’ll need a permit to camp here, and the pack-in, pack-out rule definitely applies if you want to help keep the place beautiful. Services are either limited or just not available, so you’ve got to show up ready.
Widewaters really calls to us because it’s a way to connect with nature—no crowds, no fuss. The area isn’t open year-round, so planning around the weather and road conditions matters. Whether you’re rolling up in a car or an RV, knowing the permit details ahead of time just makes everything easier.
Getting there means following some forest roads, and honestly, sorting out directions before you go can save a lot of headaches. The remoteness pushes you toward a quieter, low-impact camping style, which is perfect if you’re craving a real outdoor escape.
Key Takeaways
- Permits are required for camping at the Widewaters site.
- Limited services mean campers must bring all essentials.
- Access is seasonal and best planned in advance.
CCC Camp Boondocking Paradise, MI
46.641113, -85.126612
If you’re searching for a peaceful camp near Paradise, Michigan, CCC Camp Boondocking is a standout. This free campsite sits close to Tahquamenon Falls and has easy road access for just about any rig, even big RVs and trailers. It’s an easy way to enjoy nature without shelling out for camping fees.
This Tahquamenon Falls boondocking sits on the site of an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) project, so there’s a bit of history baked in. You can wander the forests, check out the waterfalls, and just enjoy a low-key camping vibe. You’ll need a free permit, but honestly, that’s a small ask for a spot like this.
There’s a ton of room to park, and the dirt roads leading in usually stay in decent shape. It’s ideal if you want a simple, no-nonsense stay but still want to be close to some of the best scenery around.
Key Takeaways
- Free camping with easy access for any size rig
- Close to popular spots like Tahquamenon Falls
- Quiet, historic site—just grab a free permit
Hendricks Township Campground in Naubinway, MI
46.057784, -85.171259
Hendricks Township Campground in Naubinway, MI – Guide to Amenities and Activities
Hendricks Township Campground in Naubinway, Michigan, sits tucked away in the Upper Peninsula, offering a peaceful spot for camping and outdoor fun. You’ll find several RV-friendly sites and basic amenities like parking and restrooms here, though there’s a small fee for entry and camping. The area’s close to natural water sources, which means paddling and soaking in the quiet scenery is easy.
Honestly, if you’re after a straightforward, no-fuss camping experience, this place feels like a solid pick. You can get here pretty easily from U.S. Highway 2, and both tent campers and RV folks have what they need. The cold, flowing well and all that green space? It’s a nice touch if you’re looking to just chill out in nature for a bit.
Exploring Naubinway and the surrounding area gives you a taste of Michigan’s quieter, less touristy side. There’s a bit of small-town charm and a sense of history that’s hard to fake. The whole vibe is about low-key adventure—nothing fancy, but that’s kind of the point.
Key Takeaways
- You’ll get RV sites with basic parking and restroom facilities.
- There’s a small fee for parking and camping.
- It’s easy to find and close to natural water features.
Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking Frequently Asked Questions
Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking means following the rules and picking the right spot. Knowing what to expect (or not expect) helps us plan. We also have to figure out just how close we can camp and whether there are any special boondocking zones around here.
What are the regulations for Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking areas?
We have to stick to Michigan state laws and whatever local rules apply to public lands. Camping on private property? Ask the owner first. Fire safety and waste disposal rules are non-negotiable. Always check for any temporary bans or restrictions before you set up camp.
How can I find Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking locations?
We use apps and websites that list dispersed camping. Sometimes, just cruising the forest roads in Hiawatha National Forest turns up solid free spots. Asking locals or park rangers can lead you to some hidden gems, too.
What amenities are available Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking sites?
Most of these sites don’t offer much—no water, no electricity. We bring everything ourselves: water, food, waste bags. Occasionally you’ll find a fire ring or a primitive toilet, but don’t count on it.
Are there designated Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking areas within Tahquamenon Falls State Park?
Nope, the park mostly has developed campgrounds with fees and some basic services. There aren’t official boondocking areas inside the park, so we camp outside the boundaries if we want it free and primitive.
How close to Tahquamenon Falls can you legally boondock?
Boondocking’s not allowed inside the park. The closest legal spots are on public lands—usually national forest—just a few miles outside the park perimeter.
What is the best time of year for Tahquamenon Falls Boondocking?
Honestly, late spring through early fall just feels right—weather’s usually friendlier and the roads aren’t a nightmare. Sure, you can try winter boondocking if you’re up for a challenge, but you’ll need solid experience and some serious gear to handle the snow and biting cold.