Rustic camping near Bitely, Michigan offers a mix of Manistee National Forest terrain with sandy access roads, riverside camping, and lakeside options. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night, creating comfortable camping conditions. Many dispersed sites don't have cell service outside of the main recreation areas.
What to do
Hiking the North Country Trail: Access trail sections from Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping where visitors report diverse terrain. "I've hiked and kayaked this trail on a few occasions and I can confidently say this is one of my favorite trails in all of Michigan. You have the option to do the loop, they allow dispersed camping, and there is plenty to see and do. Waterfalls, river bends, wildlife, this trail has it all," notes Colin E.
Wildlife observation: Watch for local animals at Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping which offers wooded seclusion. A camper notes: "Great area to explore. 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. Very good area for those interested in back country camping and primitive camping, lots of forest to explore."
Beach access: For swimming options, visit Government Landing Campground with river swimming opportunities. Kevin D. shares: "Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed camping at Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF provides seclusion. Evelyn K. states: "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. Really great biking paths. We had fun on our e-bikes."
Water access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to lakes and rivers. At Government Landing Campground, Bruce L. notes: "Sites are large with fantastic views. Walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails and routes are in close proximity."
Star visibility: The distance from urban areas creates excellent night sky viewing. Sara W. commented about Manistee National Forest camping: "Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many primitive camping areas near Bitely have challenging access roads. At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, 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."
Seasonal changes: Camping options vary with the seasons. Kevin D. explains about Government Landing: "You have to reserve in the summer, but during offseason it is free/first come first serve. Scenic spot right on the pond/dam backwaters. Very spacious and spread out sites."
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary by site. While most dispersed areas allow fires, many require existing fire rings. At Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed, Linda C. reports: "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Bullet casings present. Road was very quiet midweek."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: Choose larger sites that accommodate family setups. At Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road, Heidi H. suggests: "Drove out to this campsite after spending the day swimming in Lake Michigan at the Recreation area which is down the road. There's ~15 sites down this road, and each of them were gorgeous, some very large and very private."
Safety awareness: Be conscious of wildlife activity, especially with children and pets. Joseph C. advises after his experience at Sand Road: "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."
Water recreation: Look for sites with safer swimming options for children. Hunter G. recommends Manistee National Forest: "Take green road toward cooper creek road and find an empty spot! Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road."
Tips from RVers
Road access assessment: Scout roads before committing to an RV campsite. Bobbi Jo K. shares about Nordhouse Dunes: "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!)."
Site width considerations: Look for pullouts large enough for your vehicle size. Connor N. advises about Green Road: "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."
Turnaround space: Consider exit strategies before settling into a tight spot. Brittany D. cautions at Government Landing: "At site #33 which is technically not governments landing, but felt it was good information. Camping with a 20ft trailer, It was very beautiful and peaceful stay. 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."
