Escanaba River State Forest (dispersed)
Upper Peninsula, central · Michigan DNR (state forest)
The central UP block between the big lake shores: the Escanaba and Days rivers, hemlock ravines, and enough two-track to lose a week. Hang the card, mind the posted corners, and the forest is yours.
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 state forest land: post a camp registration card (PR4134), 1+ mile from any state forest campground, off posted ground. A Recreation Passport covers trailhead lots like Days River.
Escanaba and Gwinn country; ~5.5 to 6 hr from Grand Rapids.
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.