Top Free Dispersed Camping near Alanson, MI

Looking for the best Alanson dispersed camping? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Alanson, MI (5)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Alanson

5 Reviews of 5 Alanson Campgrounds


  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Great little spot

    Ended up with a flat tire from what we assume was leftover trash metal from the campsites but despite that it was beautiful and we got to see the northern lights 😍

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Stunning

    Absolutely stunning location! This dispersed campsite offers breathtaking views right on the shoreline. The serenity of the water and the peaceful surroundings make for an unforgettable experience. The terrain is slightly rocky, and there’s a constant wind—both to be expected—but it only adds to the rugged charm. Plus, the Verizon cell service was excellent—a cherry on top for staying connected while enjoying nature. Highly recommended!

  • Robert M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Your Amenities are Fresh air, Nature, beauty and peace.

    I rated it high because it was as promised. Someone who is looking for a campground with bathrooms and showers would be disappointed, but apparently did not read the description. 

    I had an 18' Thor Scope B class pulling a kayak trailer. I wouldn't try driving anything much bigger to this end of the trail. I did see a vehicle pull one of those boxy 20' camping trailers into a campsite up the road. I was pleased and surprised to find a site I could simply pull into, right on the lake looking out at a million-dollar view of a beautiful bay, with a deep cedar forest on the other side. The soothing sound of what seemed like an almost constant breeze through the cedars was wonderful.

    I don't know if it's just that I came at the right time but didn't see a single mosquito in three days, nor was I bothered by any other bug. 

    There was a 1-3 bar Verizon signal.

    Loved this campsite. My thanks to The Dyrt.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    May. 22, 2024

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Search Bay

    Beautiful camp spots right on the lake. I have a 20 foot sprinter. I wouldn’t bring anything much bigger than that in here couldn’t make it to the last two camp spots tree overhang smaller vehicle could’ve made it through again beautiful spot. I’m gonna be here a few days.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Search Bay Dispersed
    Oct. 7, 2023

    Search Bay Dispersed

    Perfect Dispersed Camping

    Really cool dispersed camping area along the water. There are lots of sites right on the water shore, which we sadly could not make it to. These would be good for tents, or maybe vans/ truck campers. Scope out the road and proceed as you feel comfortable. 

    The trees are really overgrown and low hanging, and there were lots of pot holes and mud holes when we were there. Definitely no place for our 26ft class c. There are two sites before you reach the river shore road, maybe three if you want to squeeze into a littler spot, and those are nice and big for RVs, and clear and open for solar panels, but were taken when we went. So we went a mile back up the road to a little pullout along a lake that looked like it was cleared out a bit and stayed there for two wonderful relaxing peaceful nights. 

    Some road traffic from people going to the bay, but the road condition is such that everyone was going really slowly, so that was nice. Road going in was doable, but you’d definitely need to take it slow because of all the potholes and dips. We did have cell service, though it wasn’t the greatest (Verizon & ATT). 

    Nice peaceful area to hang out right at the water. Bugs weren’t too bad, mostly bumble bees going about their business. Biting flies did bite through my socks though.



Guide to Alanson

Camping near Alanson, Michigan, offers a great mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the beaches: Many campgrounds, like Burt Lake State Park Campground, have beautiful sandy beaches. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area," making it perfect for families.
  • Hiking and nature walks: Trails abound in the area. A visitor at Leelanau State Park Campground noted, "The vault toilets stay relatively clean and always stocked," indicating that the park is well-maintained for those who want to enjoy the outdoors.
  • Fishing and boating: Campgrounds like Fisherman's Island State Park Campground are right on the water, making it easy to fish or take a boat out. One happy camper said, "Each site is secluded and there are about 10 sites that are directly on Lake Michigan."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Straits State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathroom and shower facilities were nice and clean!"
  • Friendly atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the community vibe. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "The campground is great with a lot of amenities for young and old alike."
  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Wilderness State Park Camping offer stunning views. A reviewer noted, "The tent site we stayed at had a good view of the lake and passing ships."

What you should know:

  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Burt Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "When the campground is full, you are quite close to your neighbors."
  • Limited privacy: Campers at Traverse City State Park Campground noted that "sites are not secluded but good hammock trees abound," which might not suit everyone.
  • Noise from roads: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Otsego Lake State Park Campground said, "A lot of the sites back up to the busy road and you can hear road traffic noise all day and night."

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Alanson, Michigan, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Alanson, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Alanson, MI is Search Bay Dispersed with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Alanson, MI?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Alanson, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.