Round Island Wilderness
Straits of Mackinac · Hiawatha National Forest (USFS)
A 375-acre wilderness island between Mackinac and Bois Blanc, with wilderness latrines at the two landing areas and nothing else. The 1895 lighthouse stands on a spit at the northern tip; daytime brings ferry wakes and their soundtrack, night brings the island back. Deep Anishinaabe significance, so tread lightly, the Forest Service asks it plainly.
From above. USDA NAIP, public domain.The vibe
Works for hammock, tent. Measured dark skies, a real one for stargazing.
Hanging a hammock?
Depends whose trees they are. The Forest Service 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
No permit and no fee; standard Hiawatha wilderness rules (group max 10, six per campsite, no motors). No ferry and no dock: you land your own boat or kayak on the beach, and the crossing runs through a busy shipping channel with real current.
Boat or kayak only; nearest public launches at St. Ignace, Hessel, and Mackinaw City.
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.