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Camping in a state forest

Camping in a state forest

Camping in a state forest

    • There is one camping unit and six people allowed per site.
    • A responsible adult (18 years or older) must register and sleep at the campsite each night.
    • Campsites are for overnight stays. If a campsite is left empty for more than 24 hours, it’s considered abandoned.
    • To give everyone a chance to enjoy state forest campgrounds during peak season (May 15–Sept. 15), the maximum stay is 15 nights. Once you hit that limit, you'll need to take a 5-night break before returning to the same park.

  • Check-in starts at 3 p.m. and checkout is by 1 p.m.

    Camping fees and registration procedures are posted at the information kiosk at each campground. 

  • Most state forest campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. While a select few can be reserved at MiDNRReservations.com, most campgrounds do not accept advance reservations.

  • "Paying and holding" for a state forest campground campsite spot before you actually arrive is prohibited. To legally claim a site, you must set up a legally established camp. To be considered a legally established camp, the site must meet one of the following: a) opening or setting up of a tent; b) parking and occupancy of an enclosed, self-contained camping unit; or c) sleeping or occupying a sleeping bag or sleeping in any other manner between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.

  • The use of fuel-powered generators is not allowed during established quiet hours (10 p.m. to 8 a.m.).

    The use of solar-powered generators are allowed for help with medical and other needs. Generally speaking, electricity is not offered in state forest campgrounds.

  • No more than 6 horses per campsite are allowed in equestrian state forest campgrounds or trail camps.

  • Backpacking or car camping (also known as dispersed camping) is permitted on state forest land as long as your site is located more than one mile from a state forest campground. It's free of charge.

    The following applies:

    • Campsites cannot be located in a state park, recreation area, state forest campground or state game area and must be located more than one mile from state forest campgrounds. This interactive map can be used as a measurement tool.
    • The campsite or adjacent area cannot be posted as "No Camping."
    • A backpacking registration card must be prominently posted at the campsite for the duration of the stay. It's your responsibility to ensure that the registration card remains legible. Placing the card in a zip-top bag is recommended. Camp registration cards are also available at customer service centers.

    Find all backpacking and car camping resources »