Dispersed camping near Belmont, Michigan provides primitive overnight options throughout the Manistee National Forest region, typically from early spring through late fall. The area's mixed hardwood forests and glacial terrain create numerous secluded camping opportunities on public lands. Winter camping is possible but requires additional preparation for snow conditions and limited accessibility on forest roads.
What to do
Hiking access: At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, multiple trail options extend from the parking areas. According to Degen G., it's a "Very good area for those interested in back country camping and primitive camping, lots of forest to explore."
Lakeside activities: Sawkaw Lake offers fishing and boat access with spacious waterfront sites. Tony N. notes, "Not a lot of privacy between sites, but they are very large so you don't feel on top of another and having the lake right there was nice."
Wildlife observation: The forests around Sand Road support diverse wildlife populations. Campers should be prepared for potential wildlife encounters, particularly after dark. Joseph C. experienced: "Not 30 mins later, the coyotes were back again, but even closer. They were less than 100 yards away from us, and we had no choice but to stay in our tent."
North Country Trail exploration: The Sawkaw Lake area provides direct access to the North Country Trail system for day hiking. Fiona found it "a great little dispersed camping spot. Easy access to North Country Trail."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping features large, open areas suitable for various camping setups. Ashley H. states it's "Perfect for big families or even solo camp! Spots big and small plenty to choose from."
Quiet weekday stays: Mid-week visits typically offer more solitude at dispersed sites. Lori T. describes Sawkaw Lake as a "Beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around. Might change by Friday."
Water features: Multiple sites offer access to water sources including lakes and creeks. Degen G. noted practical water access: "There was running water in a creek south of Sand Road."
Vehicle-accessible options: Despite challenging terrain, many sites accommodate vehicles directly at camp. Dennis N. confirms: "Free rusty camping. You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS coordinates may not always lead to correct locations. Jolie reports: "The coordinates lead you to a state that park if it is off sand road or Russell road it's 30 minutes out for where coordinates are. Struggled to find any primitive camping anywhere nearby."
Vehicle requirements: Sandy terrain creates significant access difficulties for standard vehicles. Logan P. warns: "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."
Permit status changes: Some dispersed areas may be transitioning to permit systems. Ileene R. observed at Sawkaw Lake: "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."
Site maintenance responsibility: Pack out all trash and leave sites better than found. Ileene R. noted: "Not tons of trash but I cleaned up some left in fire pit."
Tips for camping with families
Neighboring lake options: Families can explore connected water bodies for additional sites. Jay D. shares: "Found several spots around Sawkaw Lake, to include Little Half Moon Lake which is right next to it. Nice and quite."
Wildlife considerations: Families with young children should be particularly aware of wildlife activity in the area. Joseph C. advises based on experience at Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping: "Please be aware, when camping here you may be in coyote territory, and they don't seem to like it. So, maybe not a great spot for kids, or smaller pets."
Facilities assessment: Recent improvements have added basic sanitation at some sites. Ileene R. confirms: "Toilet is nice. Lake has boat access. There are fire rings and lots of wood to collect."
Tips from RVers
Van camping options: Some locations work well for van-based camping without requiring deep forest access. Noah E. suggests: "The directions take you to a parking lot. 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."
Ground clearance requirements: RV access is limited to high-clearance vehicles with appropriate traction. Dennis N. explains the reality clearly: "You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
