Dispersed camping near Beulah, Michigan offers accessible wilderness opportunities within the Huron-Manistee National Forests, which cover over 540 square miles of diverse terrain. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,100 feet above sea level, creating varied microclimates throughout the region. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing between November and March, with summer highs typically reaching the mid-70s to low 80s.
What to do
Fishing in clear waters: Sand Lakes Quiet Area features exceptional fishing in crystal clear waters. As one camper notes, "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast" (Dan K., Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites).
Backpacking the loop trail: The Manistee River Trail offers a 23-mile loop option connecting with the North Country Trail. A reviewer advises, "Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side)" (Shelly B., Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping).
Swimming in Lake Michigan: The recreation area provides beach access for day use before camping. One visitor shared, "Drove out to this campsite after spending the day swimming in Lake Michigan at the Recreation area which is down the road" (Heidi H., Green Road Dispersed).
Mini-waterfall exploration: Check out the hidden waterfall on the Manistee River Trail for a scenic stop. As one hiker recommends, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" (Josh D., Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping).
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed sites provide good separation from other campers. "These dispersed sites in the national forest are fantastic! Level for tents. Spread out enough that you aren't on top of neighbors. We couldn't see anyone from our site" (Evelyn K., Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF).
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution makes for excellent stargazing opportunities. "Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city" (Sara W., Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF).
Lakeside camping spots: Several areas offer prime waterfront sites for camping. "Great spots near lakeside, hiking nearby, quiet, hardly saw anyone" (Roger V., Sand Lakes Quiet Area).
Designated vs. true dispersed sites: The area offers both options depending on preference. "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" (Shelagh R., Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping).
What you should know
Fire restrictions and rings: Most dispersed sites have existing fire rings, but check current fire restrictions. At Lime Lake, one camper found "a handmade fire ring" (Jade M., Lime Lake).
Road conditions vary significantly: Some forest roads require high clearance vehicles. "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" (Bobbi Jo K., Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road).
Seasonal availability and fees: Government Landing campground operates differently depending on time of year. "You have to reserve in the summer, but during offseason it is free/first come first serve" (Kevin D., Government Landing Campground).
Finding campsite locations: Some camping areas can be difficult to locate initially. "We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer" (Rachael T., Sand Lakes Quiet Area).
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Look for sites that balance privacy with easy access. "There's ~15 sites down this road, and each of them were gorgeous, some very large and very private" (Heidi H., Green Road Dispersed).
Tick prevention essential: Ticks are common in warmer months in this region. "We did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike" (Josh D., Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping).
Pack-in water supplies: Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water sources. At Lake Michigan Recreation Area, sites like "Site 15 is a great spot off the road with a firepit" (Tam E.), but you'll need to bring all water with you.
Weekend crowds: Plan to arrive early on summer weekends to secure a site. "We arrived somewhat late on the first night and had a hard time finding a proper area to camp" (Katana H., Sand Lakes Quiet Area).
Tips from RVers
High-clearance trailers only: Many forest roads are challenging for standard RVs. "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" (Brittany D., Government Landing Campground).
Camper van accessibility: Smaller camper vans fare better on rough forest roads. "I have a promaster and made it through the rough sand road" (Amber R., Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road).
Best sites for small trailers: Some areas can accommodate modest-sized trailers with proper planning. "Had a 19 foot trailer with high clearance (only trailer brave enough to camp here!)" (Bobbi Jo K., Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road).
Cell service availability: Despite remote locations, mobile coverage exists in many areas. "Very peaceful off the grid camping. Even had cell service!" (Bobbi Jo K., Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road).
