Tent campsites near Bitely, Michigan spread throughout the Manistee National Forest in a region characterized by sandy soil, mixed hardwood forests, and numerous small lakes and streams. Elevations in the area range from 800-1200 feet above sea level, creating variable terrain for both riverside and lakeside camping options. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperatures that can dip below freezing at night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Pere Marquette River at Gleasons Landing provides excellent river fishing access. "Overlooks the Pere Marquette river and has a small sandy shore where you can get into the water to cool off or do some fishing. This is also a landing spot for folks that rent kayaks or canoes from Baldwin," notes Amy R.
Creek exploration: Bray Creek State Forest Campground features direct access to a shallow creek perfect for wading. One camper mentioned, "A nice rustic campground, it's small but has steps leading to the creek that's perfect for kids to play in and a few trails."
Stargazing: Clear night skies at Timber Creek Campground offer exceptional stargazing opportunities away from light pollution. "The view of the stars at night is truly out of this world," reports Renae J., who was particularly impressed with the night sky visibility in this less-visited campground.
Hiking trails: Access the North Country Trail from several campgrounds in the area. James V. noted that Timber Creek is "an entrance to the North Country Trail so it's a busy place," making it a good starting point for day hikes or backpacking trips into the national forest.
What campers like
Private sites: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground features well-spaced sites that maintain privacy even when the campground is full. Nicole C. appreciates the "very large and private lots with nice pits, and tables," while another camper noted the campground "was full on a late september weekend but still quiet and didn't feel crowded at all."
Split lake access: Leverentz Lake has unique dual lake access to both Big and Little Leverentz lakes. Ari A. explains, "This is actually one state forest campground split into two units, each on a lake: Big Leverentz and Little Leverentz... Big Leverentz is large enough for small motor boats, and makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc."
Wilderness feel: Some primitive sites near Bitely offer a true sense of isolation. At Sulak Campground, Sarah S. found exactly what she wanted: "We were looking for dispersed camping and this was perfect. We do have some neighbors but they are far enough away. Each camp is pretty surrounded by trees."
Quieter weekdays: Most tent campsites near Bitely see significantly fewer visitors during weekdays. Jon G. appreciates that Timber Creek is "probably the least used campsite I have ever been to and I love it. I've been coming to this campsite for about 15 years now and it's still as quiet as the first year."
What you should know
Facilities vary widely: Some camping areas have no amenities whatsoever. At Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed, Linda C. notes, "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Bullet casings present."
Seasonal water availability: Water access can be unreliable in early spring and late fall. At Timber Creek, James V. reported, "Restrooms were locked and no water but it was open to camping and free" during a May visit.
Fire pit design limitations: Fire pits at established campgrounds have a specific design that prioritizes safety over comfort. Renae J. explains, "The fire pits have a higher wall around them with a grill on top you cannot remove. Great for cooking food, but if you're looking to sit by the fire to warm up, you'd probably be better off with a portable heater."
Cash payment systems: Most state forest campgrounds operate on a self-pay system. Ari A. advises visitors to "bring cash or check to drop into the payment pipe" at Leverentz Lake, as there's "no DNR staff on site."
Tips for camping with families
Creek-side camping: Shallow water access makes for safe, entertaining spots for children. Ryan M. recommends Bray Creek specifically because it "has steps leading to the creek that's perfect for kids to play in."
Fairy gardens: Pine Meadows offers unique features specifically designed for children's enjoyment. Shelly B. describes, "There is a spot among the pine trees with a large fairy display and little hide-aways for kids. Honesty, I can't wait to bring my grandchildren to this!"
Games and activities: Some sites provide recreational equipment for family use. Shelly B. notes that Pine Meadows "has many yard games available, such as cornhole and badminton, making this a great location for families."
Insect preparation: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in late spring and early summer. James V. warns that Timber Creek "was infested with ticks" during a May visit, so bring appropriate repellent and conduct regular tick checks.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads that limit RV suitability. At Condon Lake West, Tom W. cautions, "Access road is an unmarked two track that is not suitable for all vehicles."
Site size considerations: While many sites can accommodate small trailers, large RVs will have difficulty. Ari A. notes that at Leverentz Lake, "All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents."
Water and waste limitations: No dump stations or RV-specific amenities exist at most primitive sites in the area. Chels notes that Leverentz Lake has just "one hand pump water source at the entrance, no electric," so RVers need to be self-sufficient.
Off-grid power needs: Generator restrictions vary by campground, so solar or battery power is often necessary. Daniel N. points out that at Bowman Lake Campground, "Theres no amenities except for a table but the spot is free and clean," requiring RVers to be completely self-contained.
