Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of those rare places where you can still feel completely off the grid in the best way possible.
With endless forests, quiet lakes, and rugged backroads, it’s a dream for anyone who loves the idea of dispersed camping and finding their own slice of wilderness.
This content specifically relates to free camping in the U.P. Of Michigan, north of Wisconsin, USA.
Wherever you camp, pack out what you pack in. Before you depart, have a look around to leave your camping space better than when you arrived.
“In Michigan you can legally camp for free on any State owned or National Forest land*.”
There are restrictions and this is called dispersed camping. State land is owned by the Michigan DNR and National Forests are owned by the USDA Forest Service.
Finding Free Camping in UP Michigan
Apps and websites like iOverlander and freecamp…net can be great in a pinch, but most recommendations will be busy and sometimes not ideal.
Do use Google Maps, Google Earth and Landgrid. They’re free!
Landgrid.com tells you who owns the land you’re looking at on Google Earth/Maps.
To find a free dispersed camping spot, start with Google Maps by finding a clearly mapped area like a National Forest.
Look for clearings with a fire ring, campfire ring within a pull off from the trail, or two-track dirt, gravel or sometimes paved road. The indicator is the fire ring, so often. Dispersed campsites are the best near water!
While zooming into specific areas using Google Maps, see if you can locate roads or two-tracks that lead to a spot.
Find the opening of the two-track road to a larger highway or main road that leads to your possible camp spot.
Drop a pin and copy/paste the coordinates into Landgrid.
Check the owner name of the parcel where your camp spot is located to verify it is in fact State or NF property. Once you know it’s public land, switch back to Google Maps to find other potential dispersed camping spots nearby.
Take the copied coordinates from Google Maps of your potential camp spot and switch over to Google Earth and paste your coordinates. Look for clear “camped” openings with lots of trees and underdeveloped. Google Earth lets you look at defined 360 degree view of the topography and to look at the two-track road conditions. This is to be sure your vehicle can make it to the spot on the road and is the spot drivable.
Take a visit to the location and use the landgrid app on site if needed.
Sometimes proposed spots will have no camping or no vehicle signs on the two-track roads, these are no-go’s for free camping.
Iowa is actually killer for overlanding, northeast of Mequoketa, IA is underrated!
I’ve recently been interested in trying OnX Off-road as a tool for finding free dispersed camping, but this app does have a steep learning curve. An opportunity for learning!
Once you’ve made sure it’s safe and public, bring your gear and camp!
Before you pack up for your next trip to the U.P. Michigan, it helps to know a few basics about dispersed camping so you can keep the land wild and open for everyone. Across the U.S., a few simple guidelines go a long way:
Camp at least 100 to 200 feet away from any water source.
Pack out everything you bring in, including trash.
Use existing fire rings when possible and always check local burn restrictions.
Stay on established roads and durable surfaces.
Limit your stay to around 14 days in one area.
Following these basics helps preserve the natural beauty of the U.P. for everyone who loves exploring it. If you want more information about finding dispersed camping, this video is a great place to start.
Ready to trade your screens for serene river views, campfire chats, and a cold one at a local brewery?
Clinton, Iowa, and the Quad Cities have a mix of great driving destinations, outdoor adventures, and fun local stops that make them perfect for a road trip. Whether you’re traveling with your family, friends, or just need a solo getaway, here’s a guide to some of the best spots in the area.
Must-Visit Stops
Wild Rose Casino, Clinton, Iowa
1. Wild Rose Casino & Resort
Start your adventure with some entertainment at Wild Rose Casino. Whether you’re stopping by for gaming or just grabbing a meal, it’s a great way to kick things off. I don’t recommend the hotel aka resort though, it’s overpriced! I’d love to see more old-school slot machines at the Casino too, like Betty the Yeti.
2. Rock Creek Marina & Campground
This outdoor hotspot is ideal for families and nature lovers. Enjoy fishing, paddleboat rentals, and hiking trails while soaking up the Mississippi River’s views.
3. Eagle Point Park
Known for its panoramic views of the Mississippi, this park is a fantastic place to relax or have a picnic. There’s plenty of space to explore and lots of photo opportunities! [INSERT IMAGE: View of the Mississippi River from Eagle Point Park]
4. Thomson Causeway Campground
Camp right along the Mississippi River at this peaceful spot. It’s first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early for a prime site. Be aware of the nearby train tracks, but many say the views and setting are worth it.
Eat, Drink & Explore
5. Great Revivalist Brewery
This local brewery in Clinton offers tasty craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere. They’re open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, so you can stop in whenever hunger strikes. Make sure to grab a flight of beer and a warm pretzel, which is cooked in the brewery’s wood-fred brick oven.
Flight O’ brews at Great Revivalist Brewery in Clinton, IA
Great Revivalist Brewery in Clinton, IA
My Favorite Kitty Taco Shirt & Brews at Great Revivalist Brewery in Clinton, IA
Flight O’ brews at Great Revivalist Brewery in Clinton, IA
6. Green Tree Brewery (LeClaire, IA)
Take a short drive to this riverfront brewery, where you’ll find great drinks and a laid-back vibe. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
7. Stout’s Irish Pub
Craving hearty food? This pub in Clinton is a cozy spot for comfort food and a relaxed meal with family or friends.
8. Phoenix Gifts & Tobacco
This quirky local shop in Clinton is perfect for souvenirs or unique finds to remember your trip.
Top Campgrounds to Check Out
9. Bulger’s Hollow Campground This campground offers beautiful river views, a boat launch, and a quiet atmosphere.
Looking for a peaceful spot right on the Mississippi River? Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area is a hidden gem for wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, and camping. Located 7.5 miles north of Clinton, IA, off Highway 67, it’s a little off the beaten path—you’ll need to drive about a mile on a gravel road to get there—but trust us, it’s worth the trip.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-May through mid-October, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Reservations aren’t available, and all 23 campsites are nonelectric. Of these, 14 are designated for RVs, and 9 are for tent camping. While there aren’t RV hookups, the campground offers basic amenities like drinking water, vault toilets, and a dump station. For day visitors, the boat ramp, picnic shelter, and playground are open year-round.
Keep in mind that Bulger’s Hollow is located directly parallel to train tracks, so light sleepers might want to bring earplugs. That said, if you’re a deep sleeper or a fan of the gentle rumble of trains in the background, you’ll feel right at home.
Pro Tip: Bulger’s Hollow now uses a “Scan and Pay” system through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Before heading out, download the app and create an account since there’s limited cell service in the area. Once at the campground, you’ll need to physically arrive to secure your spot, scan the QR code at your chosen site, and pay through the app (credit card only—cash is no longer accepted).
Address: 4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732
boats in the water in the Mississippi River at Bulger’s Hallow near Fulton Iowa
Bulgers Hallow near Fulton Iowa
camping in a tent a bulgers hallow near Fulton Iowa
Photos by Recreation.gov
Whether you’re launching your boat, enjoying a picnic, or simply soaking in the river views, Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. Just don’t forget your earplugs—and maybe your camera!
10. 6B’s Campground (Maquoketa, IA)
Close to Maquoketa Caves State Park, this private campground is great for families looking for both adventure and relaxation. Enjoy fishing, kayak rentals, hiking trails, and more. We did not get to visit this one but it’s along the River!
11. Backbone State Park (Delaware County)
This state park’s South Loop Campground has some of the best RV sites with lake views. With excellent fishing, hiking, and a beach, it’s a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
12. American Pickers & Antique Archaeology (LeClaire, IA)
Fans of the show will love visiting this famous shop to browse antiques and unique finds.
Scenic Drive Along the Great River Road
If you love a good scenic drive, following the Great River Road on the Iowa side is a must. From Clinton to LeClaire, the route hugs the Mississippi River and offers incredible views of the water and charming river towns. Take your time and soak it all in—there are plenty of spots to pull over for photos or just to enjoy the scenery.
From LeClaire, cross the bridge into Rock Island for more riverfront vibes before continuing to Moline. We made a stop at Bent River Brewery in downtown Moline, IL, to sample their craft beer and grab some appetizers. The atmosphere is fun and laid-back, making it a great place to take a break from all the exploring. If you visit in the wintertime, like we did, and you decide to sit at the bar, bring a few warm layers as it’s chilly to belly-up barside!
Bent River Brewery in Moline, Illinois
Bent River Brewery in Moline, Illinois
Bent River Brewery in Moline, Illinois
Bent River Brewery in Moline, Illinois
This drive is the perfect mix of scenic beauty and fun stops, so don’t rush—enjoy the journey as much as the destinations!
Rolling with the River: Wrapping Up Your Epic Mississippi Road Trip
Road-tripping along the Mississippi River is an unforgettable adventure full of scenic drives, charming small towns, and unique stops. From exploring the Great River Road and its stunning river views to discovering vibrant local spots like Bent River Brewery in Moline, IL, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Camping enthusiasts will find plenty of options to suit their style, whether it’s the peaceful waterfront views at Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area, the rustic charm of 6B’s Campground near Maquoketa, or the RV-friendly amenities at Backbone State Park. For a more active escape, paddle your kayak, cast a fishing line, or hike the trails at Central Park in Jones County or Fountain Springs Park in Delaware County.
If you’re up for a bit of fun in town, Clinton, IA, offers lively spots like Wild Rose Casino & Resort and delicious eats at Great Revivalist Brewery or Stout’s Irish Pub. Meanwhile, nearby LeClaire is home to quirky gems like Antique Archaeology and local breweries like Green Tree Brewery, making it a great pit stop for history buffs and craft beer lovers alike.
No matter your travel style—whether you’re into camping, brewery hopping, or simply cruising scenic byways—this stretch of the Midwest has something memorable to offer. Pack your bags, fire up the truck, and hit the road. Adventure awaits along the Mississippi!
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