Skip to main content
Site Open

Search Bay

Search no more for your perfect, off-the-beaten-track campsite and swimming hole. At Search Bay you will be surrounded by:

  • Aspen groves
  • Cedar swamps
  • Meadows and ponds
  • Deer
  • Bald eagles
  • Loons

Primitive Camping:

Camping is primitive, with no facilities such as tables, toilets or drinking water.

Wildlife:

  • The diversity of habitats along the road attracts a variety of wildlife, so stop frequently to scan the surrounding area.
  • During the breeding season in spring, watch for nesting bald eagles and listen for loons calling from the water.
  • Walk along the edge of the bay in the spring and fall and scan the adjacent trees and shrubs for migrating songbirds.
  • In the summer, stop for a swim and watch for waterfowl feeding in the shallow bay.
  • This is also an important winter deer range as the browse line on the trees indicates.

Small Boats Allowed:

Trails traverse the area and provide a wonderful experience. Depending on water levels, the boat launch may be used to launch small boats. Kayak and canoe access is available.

General Information

A single-track dirt road, (Forest Road 3436) starts from Michigan Highway 134 (M-134) and meanders through aspen groves, cedar swamps, meadows and ponds to an unimproved camping area along the edge of Search Bay.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 45.994052

Longitude: -84.516421

Directions

From Hessel drive 4.6 miles west on M-134 to Search Bay Road (FR 3436).  Turn left (south) on FR 3436 and drive about 1.5 miles on M-134 to FR 3436 and drive about 1.5 miles to Search Bay.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Outdoor Science and Learning Outdoor Science and Learning
Water Activities Water Activities

Viewing SceneryViewing Scenery
Viewing WildlifeViewing Wildlife

Last updated March 19th, 2025