Bois Blanc Island (dispersed)
Straits of Mackinac · Michigan DNR (state forest)
The Straits island nobody visits: thirty-some square miles of state forest, inland lakes, and gravel roads, one small store, and Mackinac's ferris-wheel crowds visible across the water from a beach you have alone. Bring everything; the island sells almost nothing.
From above. USDA NAIP, public domain.The vibe
Works for hammock, tent, van / car. Measured dark skies, a real one for stargazing.
Hanging a hammock?
Depends whose trees they are. The DNR makes the rules, and wilderness areas can have their own take on hammocks, so check before you count on a hang. Wherever you hang: wide tree-friendly straps, no nails or wire, and don't tear the bark. We can't see the trunks from here, so eyeball it on arrival.
The rules
Free dispersed camping on the island's state-forest land: post a camp registration card (PR4134), 1+ mile from any state forest campground, off posted ground. Car ferry from Cheboygan; services on the island are nearly nil.
Car ferry from Cheboygan (limited runs); ~3.75 hr from Grand Rapids to the dock.
Thicket is not the managing agency and not affiliated with it. The vibe read is our estimate from open data (OpenStreetMap, USGS elevation, NASA Black Marble nighttime light); the rules, permits, and access can change. Confirm with the agency before you go, and leave no trace.