Baldwin is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Michigan camping adventure.
"It was a great little dispersed camping spot. Brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around. Easy access to North Country Trail.
Loved it!"
"Found several spots around Sawkaw Lake, to include Little Half Moon Lake which is right next to it. Nice and quite."
"No outhouse yet but town is near. This is just down the road from Leverentz SpR."
"First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace". "
"This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem."
"This was a very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident."
"I hear it’s darn near impossible to find an open site During June-August. Sites are large with fantastic views. Walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails a d routes are in close proximity."
"Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."
"Although this is listed as "dispersed" camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups."
"Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes."
"Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road."
"Coordinates took me to a parking area that was blocked off and marked private property. I parked a ways down from this spot and just hiked in and camped."
"There looks like there are trails off of the parking lot. No signs that say no overnight parking. I'm in a van and this worked great for me. Quiet area and right off the lake."
GuideFirst time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace". Other than that I had a great time.
TravelerCoordinates took me to a parking area that was blocked off and marked private property. I parked a ways down from this spot and just hiked in and camped. Very good area for those interested in back country camping and primitive camping, lots of forest to explore. There are also quite a few drive in sites as well for car camping. There was running water in a creek south of Sand Road.
GuideThis is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem. Forest service roads will take you deep into the forests if your vehicle can handle it. 4WD is recommended if you want to go deep. There are plenty of great spots though for big rigs or for those without 4WD. 15-30 minute drive to Lake Michigan. Local convenience store is only a few miles down the road. Try this place out. You won’t regret it.
TravelerThis was our first time boondocking in this area. It was beautiful, especially in the fall. Roads are great until you get to the road to camp. There are very large holes and dips, thankfully we found a spot right away before we got in far. Had a 19 foot trailer with high clearance (only trailer brave enough to camp here!). Very peaceful off the grid camping. Even had cell service!
LegendI’ve camped here many times, in summer, fall, and spring. The campsites are large and spread out so you get a bit of privacy. It can get busy on weekends since many people know about this spot. It is a short drive to the beach and nordhouse dunes which is known for hammock camping on the beach so you have options. The last 2 times I’ve went there was lots of trash at the campsites, which is very upsetting. Please follow “Leave No Trace” ethics so we can keep enjoying this space.
GuideThis was our first time trying out dispersed camping and this location was perfect! We loved being a short drive away from Lake Michigan and plenty of hiking trails. It is in a beautiful wooded area and there were hardly an mosquitos where we were. My only complaint is that the previous visitors at our campsite left trash everywhere and had clearly had fires in at least 4 different areas. The campsite was covered in ash because of it. It’s disappointing to see that some people really just don’t care about taking care of public land.
RangerSpent a few nights here enjoying Manistee National Forest and Lake Michigan. During our stay we relocated from our original site to a bigger site further down the road heading south. Sites ranged from spacious to road-side turnouts with a wide range between. Verizon service was fair. Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves. Will definitely stay again next time we visit Michigan!
ScoutThis is such a beautiful site, we stayed here a few days two years ago. Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes. Many sites were available to us, we chose to utilize our favorite site.
GuideGreat dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike.
Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Baldwin, Michigan, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Baldwin dispersed camping areas?
Dispersed camping areas near Baldwin are truly primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, you'll find basic parking areas with hiking trails but no facilities. Similarly, Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF offers natural beauty but no developed amenities. These areas follow true boondocking principles - no restrooms, running water, trash service, or hookups. You'll need to pack in all supplies, including water, and pack out all waste. Most sites offer natural features like fire rings made of stones, but official facilities are non-existent. Cell service can be spotty, with Verizon reported as fair in some locations.
Where can I find dispersed camping near Baldwin, Michigan?
Some of the best dispersed camping near Baldwin can be found in the Manistee National Forest. The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road offers excellent boondocking opportunities with spacious sites spread throughout the forest. Forest service roads take you deep into the woods, though 4WD is recommended for accessing more remote spots. Another option is the Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, which provides a more secluded experience with sites along the river trail. Both areas are accessible by vehicle, though road conditions vary, especially after rain or during spring thaw.
Are permits required for dispersed camping in Baldwin, Michigan?
No special permits are typically required for dispersed camping in the national forest areas around Baldwin, though a Recreation Pass may be needed for parking at certain trailheads. At Grant Camping on Morton Road, you can simply arrive and set up at available sites. The same applies to Lake Michigan Recreation Area dispersed sites nearby. Always follow standard dispersed camping rules: camp at established sites only, stay at least 200 feet from water sources, and adhere to the 14-day maximum stay limit. During fire season, restrictions may apply, so check with the local ranger district office before your trip for current regulations.
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