Dispersed camping opportunities near Baldwin, Michigan extend beyond the popular spots mentioned in guides. The area sits within the 540-square-mile Manistee National Forest at approximately 850-900 feet elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer nights remain cool with temperatures in the 50s even during July and August.
What to do
Shoreline fishing access: Sawkaw Lake offers convenient fishing access from most sites. "There are even some hike paths around the area," notes Jay D., who found "nice and quite" spots around both Sawkaw and neighboring Little Half Moon Lake.
Waterfall exploration: Hiking the Manistee River Trail leads to hidden cascades in the forest. "Make sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" recommends Josh D., who advises bringing bug spray during summer months.
Swimming in natural settings: The backwaters at Government Landing Campground provide swimming options during warmer months. Kevin D. reports, "Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Be aware that coyotes inhabit the region. Joseph C. warns about Sand Road camping: "They were less than 100 yards away from us, and we had no choice but to stay in our tent, and wait for them to pass while holding our protection in hand."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Green Road Dispersed, Sara W. experienced "Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city."
Solitude on weekdays: Mid-week camping offers significantly more privacy and site selection. Lori T. found Sawkaw Lake "peaceful" with "not a person around" on a Tuesday, though she noted this "might change by Friday."
Easy lake access: Many primitive sites provide direct water access. Tony N. appreciated camping at Sawkaw Lake where "having the lake right there was nice" despite sites being "very large" with "not a lot of privacy between" them.
Trail connectivity: Hiking paths connect many camping areas. Fiona found Sawkaw Lake offered "easy access to North Country Trail" alongside amenities like a "brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around."
What you should know
Seasonal permit changes: Some areas have shifting permit requirements. At Sawkaw Lake, Ileene R. observed: "There are signs on the sites saying permit required, but no info for that purpose. No one else had them so I stayed. May be ramping up to making it a paid site."
Vehicle clearance issues: Many access roads require careful navigation. At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, Logan P. cautions: "This spot is wonderful, but boy howdy does it live up to its name. If you do not have AWD and good ground clearance, don't even try to get there."
Seasonal availability: Free camping exists during off-season at some normally fee-based sites. Kevin D. notes about Government Landing: "You have to reserve in the summer, but during offseason it is free/first come first serve."
Weekend site competition: Popular dispersed areas fill quickly on weekends. Bruce L. reports about Government Landing: "I was there during September 2019 and was lucky to get a site. Every site was full. I hear it's darn near impossible to find an open site during June-August."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: River access points often feature steep banks and varying depths. Brittany D. warns about Government Landing site #33: "River access at bottom of steep hill and gets deep fast."
Navigation challenges: Family camping requires careful site selection. The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness area has variable access according to Connor N.: "Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves."
Tick prevention: Ticks are present during warmer months. Josh D. reported: "Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike" on the Manistee River Trail.
Campsite spacing: Sites vary greatly in privacy levels. Regarding Green Road camping, Hunter G. notes: "Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road."
Tips from RVers
Trailer maneuvering: Limited turning space creates challenges for larger rigs. Brittany D. shares about Government Landing: "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."
High-clearance recommendations: Neil's Secret Spot and surrounding rustic areas require appropriate vehicles. N M. describes it as "Ghost Town camping at it's finest" while noting "Tents are welcome if you're in a jam."
Off-road traffic awareness: Some areas experience significant ORV traffic. Andrew G. cautions about Green Road: "There are a LOT of ORVers so be prepared for people zooming up and down the road with super loud engines."
Site selection timing: Early arrival increases camping options. Dennis N. describes Sand Road as "Free rusty camping. You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
