The Widewaters Permit Site in Paradise, MI
Key Details and Development Insights
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Paradise, MI 46.746331, -85.1194 Elevation: 669′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – State Forest (Official) PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite. The price is $0 |
Previous Reviews:
The Widewaters Permit Site: FREE PERMIT IS REQUIRED TO CAMP HERE. A couple miles down Vermillion Road is an area of the Shelldrake River that is called “The Widewaters”. It is a great secluded place to fish, camp, enjoy the fall colors, and watch wildlife. The site has a fire ring. A camping permit is required for state forests. It is free and you can fill it out yourself.
About This Location
The Widewaters Permit Site in Paradise, Michigan, offers a chance to enjoy peaceful dispersed camping 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 permit site 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.
The Widewaters Permit Site in Paradise, MI
You’ll find Widewaters Permit Site tucked near Paradise, Michigan, not far from the edges of Lake Huron. The site sits inside a quiet wilderness area, surrounded by thick forests and waterways like the Fox River. It’s honestly one of those peaceful spots that makes you want to just sit and listen.
Early cartographers mapped this rugged region—lakes, rivers, the whole deal. Pioneers relied on those maps to find their way through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Even now, Widewaters permit site feels like a place that’s barely changed.
You have to get a permit to camp here, which helps protect the natural environment. Dispersed camping is the name of the game—no services, so you pack out everything you bring in. That’s really the only way to keep it clean and quiet.
The site sits in a larger forest network near Colton Bay and Chub Creek. There’s a nice balance of open patches and woods, and you can hop on nearby trails or get to the water pretty easily. Being close to Lake Huron means there’s a mix of forest and lake fun.
Things to Do
At Widewaters permit site, fishing is a big draw. You can try your luck in the clear local waters—honestly, it’s tough to beat the calm out there.
If you’re into paddling, kayaks or canoes are the way to go. Bring your own and you can explore the quiet lakes and rivers. It’s a great way to spot wildlife—sometimes you get lucky and see something cool.
The Great Lakes don’t have whales, but they do have a wild history of sailors and shipwrecks. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is worth a stop if you’re curious about those stories and the folks who braved the lakes.
Camping at Widewaters permit site is all about dispersed style—there aren’t really any official services. You bring everything you need, and you take it all out when you leave. It’s not for everyone, but it keeps the place nice for those who come after.
There are also spots for swimming near waterfalls. After a day outside, a cold dip feels pretty amazing.
Directions
To get to Widewaters Permit Site from Paradise, Michigan, start in town and head north on Whitefish Point Road. The site’s about 3.5 miles up.
As you get close, keep an eye out for Forest Road 2262. You’ll turn west onto it and follow that for about a mile—then you’re there.
It helps to have a map of the area, especially one that shows the forest roads and ORV routes. These maps can point out the best ways in and help you avoid getting turned around.
You’ll need a permit to camp here, and since you’re in the Upper Peninsula’s thick forests near lakes and rivers, expect some dirt or gravel roads along the way.
We always check a detailed map or GPS before heading out. It lets us double-check road conditions and spot any closures or detours.
A physical or digital map of Hiawatha National Forest is a good idea, too. It’ll show campsites, trails, and other key points around Widewaters permit site. Prepping a bit makes the trip go smoother.
Vehicle Access
At Widewaters permit site, vehicle access is pretty tightly managed to protect the land. You need the right permits for motorized vehicles—ORVs, ATVs, all that.
To use motorized vehicles legally, you’ll need an ORV license and a trail permit. Michigan sells these online or at state offices. Without them, you’re not allowed on certain trails or roads.
If you want to drive into state parks or recreation areas nearby, you’ll also need a Recreation Passport. That covers some boating sites, too.
Here’s a quick summary of what you’ll need:
| Requirement | When Needed | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| ORV License | For off-road vehicles on trails | State of Michigan website or offices |
| ORV Trail Permit | Required on specific trail systems | Same as above |
| Recreation Passport | For state parks and boating sites | Purchase online or at state service centers |
Stick to posted rules about where you can drive. Some spots are off-limits or need extra permits. Staying on the roads keeps the environment safe for everyone.
RV and Camping Trailer Information
Widewaters permit site works well for RVs and camping trailers. There’s enough space to set up, and many sites are drive-through, which makes life easier for bigger rigs.
Each RV spot offers full hookups:
- Electricity
- Water
- Sewer
So you can camp comfortably without stressing about running out of anything. Some sites even have picnic tables, fire pits, or chairs, which is a nice touch.
The Widewaters permit site mixes thick woods with open spaces, so you get a bit of privacy and some good views. It’s quiet, pretty natural, and you can get to basic services without much trouble.
WiFi’s available at a lot of RV sites, though the signal can be spotty depending on where you park. It’s handy if you need to check in or stream something.
If you’re bringing a trailer or RV, make sure your setup fits the site—some are more tucked away in the woods. Always double-check site size and permit needs before you show up.
If you come prepared for a blend of privacy, convenience, and nature, Widewaters permit site can be a great spot for camping with your trailer or RV.
Paid or Permit Sites
At Widewaters permit site in Paradise, MI, some camping areas might need permits. Double-check if you need one before pitching your tent—nobody wants a hassle in the middle of nowhere. Permit rules shift from time to time, so it’s smart to stay in the loop.
Paid sites tend to offer extras like toilets, fire pits, or picnic tables. There’s usually a fee, which, honestly, keeps things in better shape. If you’re planning to go during peak season, grab a reservation ahead of time or risk missing out.
Even for dispersed camping at Widewaters permit site, you might still need a permit. The idea is to help protect the place and keep crowds manageable. You’ll find permit info on official state or local websites—though sometimes it’s a bit of a rabbit hole.
Here’s a quick guide to keep in mind:
| Type of Site | Permit Needed? | Typical Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paid Campground | Usually yes | Low to moderate | Toilets, fire rings, tables |
| Dispersed Camping | Sometimes | Usually free | Primitive, no services |
Check with local authorities or the campground office before you go. It’s the best way to avoid surprises and stick to the rules—plus, nobody likes last-minute stress.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Fire Ring Near Water Pets Welcome |
RV Camping Tent Camping Fishing Hunting Wildlife Viewing |
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