DeTour State Forest Campground

For Michiganders who truly cherish the raw, unfiltered beauty of the outdoors, beyond the manicured lawns and bustling amenities of modern campgrounds, DeTour State Forest Campground offers an authentic and deeply satisfying experience. Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Huron in the eastern Upper Peninsula, this campground provides a "more true camping in the forest experience, then camping at a campground experience," as one satisfied visitor eloquently put it. It’s a place where the sounds of nature, the vastness of the Great Lakes, and the quiet solitude of the forest take center stage.

DeTour State Forest Campground is managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and is celebrated for its rustic charm. It caters to those who seek privacy, spacious sites, and direct access to Lake Huron for fishing, paddling, and simply soaking in the natural splendor. Unlike heavily developed recreation areas, this campground emphasizes simplicity, allowing campers to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the Michigan wilderness. This detailed guide will explore what makes DeTour State Forest Campground an ideal and cherished destination for locals seeking an unpretentious, yet profoundly rewarding, outdoor adventure.

DeTour State Forest Campground is located at 17752 M-134, De Tour Village, MI 49725, USA. This address places it approximately 5 miles west of the charming De Tour Village, along the scenic M-134 highway. Its position directly on the shoreline of Lake Huron is a major draw, offering campers unparalleled access to one of the world's largest freshwater lakes.

For Michigan residents, particularly those in the Lower Peninsula, reaching De Tour Village involves a scenic drive through the state. While it's in the Upper Peninsula, its location in the eastern U.P. makes it relatively accessible compared to more remote western U.P. destinations. Access typically involves traversing the Mackinac Bridge and then heading east along M-134. The drive itself is part of the experience, transitioning from bustling highways to more serene, forested routes as you approach the eastern tip of the Upper Peninsula. Once off M-134, the campground entrance road is gravel/dirt and a bit winding, leading to the secluded sites. The remote feel once you arrive is a key aspect of its appeal, offering a genuine escape from urban environments.

As a state forest campground, DeTour State Forest Campground is intentionally rustic, meaning it provides essential services without the extensive amenities found in larger, privately operated or modern state park campgrounds. The focus is on facilitating a genuine outdoor experience with basic necessities. Here are the services you can expect:

• Rustic Campsites: The campground offers 21 sites designed for tents and small trailers, with three larger sites capable of accommodating vehicles/trailers up to 40 feet. Sites are "pretty spread out" and offer a good degree of privacy, as noted by visitors.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets (also known as pit toilets) are available for camper use. Reviews consistently highlight their surprising cleanliness for rustic facilities.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a hand-pump well, providing a reliable source of fresh water. Campers are advised to be prepared to pump their own water.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, perfect for campfires, cooking, and warmth, allowing for the classic camping experience.
• Picnic Tables: Every site includes a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meals and outdoor activities.
• Self-Serve Registration: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and campers are required to complete a self-serve registration and payment process at an information kiosk upon arrival. Payments are typically by cash or check.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are available for trash disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and practice Leave No Trace principles.
• Recreation Passport Required: A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds. This can be purchased at the time of vehicle registration or at the campground kiosk.

The true highlights of DeTour State Forest Campground lie in its stunning natural setting and the authentic outdoor activities it enables. It’s a haven for those who appreciate tranquility and direct engagement with Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula environment.

• Direct Lake Huron Access and Beach: A significant highlight is its location directly on Lake Huron. The campground features a "small beach area" with easy "access to the beach," which is noted as having "clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming and relaxing." Some campsites even have "a little path that leads right to the beach," offering unparalleled convenience for waterfront enjoyment.
• Seclusion and Privacy: Unlike crowded campgrounds, DeTour State Forest Campground is "pretty spread out" with "more room and more private" sites. Reviewers emphasize its quiet nature, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst "large pine trees."
• Excellent Stargazing: Far from urban light pollution, the campground offers incredible opportunities for stargazing. Visitors highly recommend making your way to the beach on clear nights for some of the "best stargazing."
• Fishing Opportunities: Lake Huron provides excellent fishing, with walleye, bass, pike, and musky commonly caught. The nearby De Tour Lake is also noted for paddle sports and fishing, and Caribou Lake and the St. Mary's River offer additional angling options.
• Paddling Exploration: With direct carry-in access to Lake Huron, the campground is an ideal launching point for exploring scenic bays and the shoreline via canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard.
• Hiking Trails: A 2.2-mile trail loop winds through sandy dune-like habitats, thick spruce/cedar forests, and offers opportunities for birdwatching, including spotting various migrant and summer bird species. The trail leads to Point Vitals, a prime spot for observing migratory birds.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse forest and shoreline environment provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the sounds of loons and other birds.
• Rustic Charm: The very lack of extensive modern amenities is a highlight for those seeking a "more true camping in the forest experience," emphasizing self-reliance and a deeper connection to nature.

For inquiries about DeTour State Forest Campground, it's best to contact the Michigan DNR, as they manage all state forest campgrounds. While the campground itself operates on a first-come, first-served basis, general information about policies, seasons, and any potential alerts can be obtained through the state park system.

Address: 17752 M-134, De Tour Village, MI 49725, USA

Phone: (906) 248-3422 (This number is often associated with the local management, possibly Brimley State Park which oversees it.)

For broader DNR inquiries related to state forest campgrounds, you can also typically find contact information on the Michigan.gov/DNR website, including a general Parks and Recreation email address or phone line. Always check the DNR's official website for the most current information on operating dates, fees, and any specific alerts or regulations.

DeTour State Forest Campground is exceptionally suitable for Michigan locals, particularly those in the Lower Peninsula seeking an authentic and affordable Upper Peninsula camping experience without extreme remoteness. For Michiganders who own small trailers or prefer tent camping and desire a tranquil escape, this campground hits all the right notes. Its location directly on Lake Huron, with its inviting sandy beach and clear waters, offers immediate access to swimming, paddling, and some of the best fishing spots in the region. The spacious, private, and rustic sites provide the "more room and more private" experience that many seasoned campers seek, allowing for true immersion in nature.

The affordability ($20 per day, as noted in a review) combined with the genuine wilderness feel makes it an excellent value for those who appreciate simple, uncommercialized camping. It’s a perfect spot for families and individuals to disconnect from technology, enjoy incredible stargazing, and participate in classic outdoor activities like campfires and exploring the surrounding forests and waterways. For Michiganders yearning for a real "camping in the forest experience" with the added bonus of a stunning Great Lake at their doorstep, DeTour State Forest Campground is an essential and cherished local treasure.