Best Dispersed Camping near Beulah, MI
Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Beulah, Michigan, with several free primitive sites available throughout the Manistee National Forest. Notable locations include the Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness along Green Road, and Sand Lakes Quiet Area. Government Landing Campground offers a more established option with basic amenities including pit toilets and drinking water. These sites provide varying levels of accessibility, from drive-in locations suitable for vehicles to hike-in spots requiring foot travel.
Road conditions vary significantly across these dispersed camping areas. Forest service roads in the Nordhouse Dunes area can be challenging with sandy sections and occasional large holes. According to reviews, "4WD is recommended if you want to go deep" into the forest, though many sites remain accessible to standard vehicles. Most Green Road sites feature spacious clearings spaced 50-200 feet apart, offering good privacy. Campers should bring all necessary water, as most dispersed sites lack potable water sources. Fires are generally permitted in established rings, but visitors must practice proper fire safety.
The Leave No Trace ethic is essential when using these public lands. Several campers have reported finding trash at previously used sites, particularly in popular areas like Nordhouse Dunes. Pack out all waste and minimize impact on the natural environment. Sites typically fill quickly during summer weekends, especially at Government Landing where finding an open spot from June through August can be challenging. The Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers excellent fishing opportunities in clear waters with abundant bass. Seasonal considerations include potential freezing temperatures in spring and fall, particularly along the Manistee River Trail. Ticks are present in warmer months, so appropriate precautions are necessary when hiking.
