Timber Lake Boondocking in Iron River, MI – Essential Tips and Site Overview

ZIP / Address:

Radius: 5mi10mi25mi50mi

Category: All Dump Stations Category Marker Free Category Marker Paid Category Marker Permit Category Marker

No results found in this location. Please try again.

Get Directions

From

To

Add Waypoint

For Driving Walking Transit Bicycling

show options hide options

Avoid Tolls Avoid Highways Avoid Ferries

Print directions Reset directions

Fetching directions......

Reset directions
Print directions

Timber Lake Boondocking in Iron River, MI
Essential Tips and Site Overview

Previous Reviews:

Timber Lake Boondocking: 9 miles west of Iron River Michigan, south of Hwy 2. HIKE IN ONLY, about a 1 mile hike. No vehicles or RVs. Beautiful and super secluded.

About This Location

Timber Lake boondocking in Iron River, MI, gives you a quiet, natural spot for camping. It’s a secluded area you reach by a 1 mile hike, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to camp away from crowds and get a real taste of wilderness. Forest surrounds the lake, and honestly, it’s hard not to relax when you’re out there with nothing but trees and water.

Since Timber Lake boondocking is a hike-in location, you’ll have to haul in your gear and plan for limited vehicle access. No hookups, no permits, no fees—just you, your stuff, and the woods. That’s about as simple as it gets.

Iron River itself has more typical outdoor activities, but Timber Lake boondocking? It’s a quiet retreat for folks who want real solitude. If you know how to get there and what to expect, you’re in for a smooth, laid-back trip.

Key Takeways

• Timber Lake boondocking requires a hike to reach the secluded tent camping spot.
• No fees or permits are needed to camp at Timber Lake.
• The area is ideal for those wanting a quiet and natural setting.

Timber Lake Boondocking In Iron River, MI

Timber Lake boondocking sits in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, tucked away in dense timber and natural forest. If you’re craving a rustic, quiet experience and want to dodge busy campgrounds, this is the place.

Here, you won’t find hookups for water or electricity. You’ve got to bring your own supplies and really commit to leave-no-trace camping. The Michigan DNR manages the land, so we have to stick to their rules, like camping at least a mile from any developed sites.

The lake covers around 56 acres, so there’s space to spread out. Fishing, hiking, or just soaking up the natural vibe—it’s all up for grabs. Don’t count on finding drinking water or restrooms, so pack in everything you need.

Key points for Timber Lake boondocking:

When we camp here, we keep noise down and always pack out our trash. Timber Lake boondocking, Hike In Only, really delivers that backcountry feeling with Michigan’s woods all around.

Things To Do

At Timber Lake boondocking, you’ve got plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Fishing’s a big draw here—just pick a quiet spot and cast your line.

If you’re into hiking or backpacking, the forest trails are worth exploring. Some even link up with the North Country Trail, so you can go for a longer trek if you’re feeling adventurous.

Kayaking and canoeing are both solid choices. The lake’s usually calm, so whether you’re new or experienced, paddling here is pretty relaxing. Bring your own kayak or see if you can rent one nearby.

Biking’s another good option on the trails around the lake. The paths range from easy to a bit more challenging, and you’ll cover more ground than on foot. Some trails even allow horseback riding, which is a cool way to see the place from a different angle.

There’s a nature center nearby that offers info and programs about the local ecosystem. It’s worth stopping by if you want to learn a bit before heading out.

Trail maps and elevation info are available if you like to plan things out. That way, you can pick a route that matches your comfort level and avoid any surprises.

Directions

To get to Timber Lake boondocking, start in Iron River, Michigan. Head west on US-2 for about five miles, then turn north onto Iron River Township Road.

Plug in these coordinates: latitude 46.14306, longitude -88.8253. Using a GPS makes finding the lake way easier.

There aren’t any paved roads right up to the lake. Expect gravel and dirt—sometimes rough, especially after rain—so a high-clearance vehicle is your best bet.

We usually double-check local maps or a GPS app to make sure we’re following the latest trail conditions. Signs are scarce, so keep track of where you’re going to avoid wandering off course.

Parking near the water is limited, so plan to leave your car a bit away and carry your gear in. That helps keep the shore quiet and natural.

If you’re camping overnight, pay attention to local rules. Dispersed camping is allowed, but we pack out everything and leave the place as we found it. Once you have hiked in with all your supplies, Timber Lake boondocking really feels like a remote, peaceful spot for camping.

Vehicle Access

If you’re heading to Timber Lake boondocking, it’s good to know what vehicles can handle the trip. Most of the roads are gravel or dirt, and they’re usually fine for cars, trucks, or SUVs.

Dragging in a big RV or trailer? You might run into trouble with the narrow, uneven roads. High-clearance vehicles handle the bumps and ruts better, so you’re less likely to get stuck or ding something underneath.

Parking is pretty casual—no paved lots, just pull in where you fit and make sure you’re not blocking anyone else.

If you’re towing, scout the road before you commit. Some spots require backing up on tight turns, and that’s never fun with a big trailer.

Here’s a quick checklist for vehicle readiness:

• Check tire pressure and condition
• Make sure 4WD or AWD works, if you’ve got it
• Bring a spare tire and emergency kit
• Have a map or GPS for navigation

A little prep goes a long way—nobody wants to deal with car trouble in the middle of nowhere.

RV And Camping Trailer Information

Camping at Timber Lake boondocking is only with a tent.. The sites are all primitive campsites—You must HIKE in carrying all your supplies. No water, electricity, or sewer hookups.

With a little planning, camping at Timber Lake boondocking, where you can only hike in with your supplies and tent is a simple, quiet way to enjoy the outdoors.

Paid Or Permit Sites

If you’re camping near Timber Lake boondocking in Iron River, you’ll find that some spots ask for a permit or a paid reservation. These places usually have basic amenities—restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables—the little comforts that make a difference.

Most state forest campgrounds nearby run on a first-come, first-served basis. Honestly, it’s a good idea to double-check the info kiosk at each campground for fee details and registration steps before you get settled.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Honestly, during busy seasons, it’s smart to lock in permits ahead of time. No one likes last-minute surprises. And double-checking local rules? That just keeps things smooth and, well, legal.

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