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Best Dispersed Camping near Arcadia, MI

42 Reviews

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness offers free dispersed camping along Green Road near Arcadia, Michigan. These rustic sites are spaced 50-200 feet apart among pine trees and ferns, with sandy soil throughout. The road has some rough sections with large holes and dips, though most sites remain accessible without four-wheel drive. Some campsites have established fire rings while others require visitors to create their own.

The Manistee National Forest region contains several dispersed camping options with the 14-day camping limit typical for national forest lands. Manistee River Trail provides backcountry camping opportunities accessible primarily by hiking, with sites along river bluffs offering scenic views. One camper noted, "The NCT side allows camping anywhere while MRT has specific spots." Government Landing Campground offers more developed dispersed sites with toilets and picnic tables near water. The area attracts ORV users, particularly during summer months when traffic increases substantially. Pack out all trash as most sites provide no waste facilities.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Arcadia, Michigan (9)

    1. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    17 Reviews
    Free Soil, MI
    28 miles

    "First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace". "

    "This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem."

    2. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."

    "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."

    3. Government Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "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."

    "Is a bathroom within walking distance of a few sites. No water fountain/pump that I was able to located but there were easy walkways down to pond."

    4. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    7 Reviews
    Ludington, MI
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes."

    "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."

    5. Lime Lake

    2 Reviews
    Lake Ann, MI
    24 miles

    "little tricky to get to but if you have a vehicle good for two tracking you shoukd be fine. we stayed at the 5th spot we seen because it is an active location. spots were occupied and a few cars drove"

    "Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes."

    6. Lake Michigan Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Free Soil, MI
    28 miles

    7. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    46 miles
    Website

    "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."

    "We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it."

    8. Grant Camping on Morton Road

    Be the first to review!
    Free Soil, MI
    27 miles

    9. Neil's Secret Spot

    1 Review
    Baldwin, MI
    47 miles
    +1 (352) 480-8860

    "No outhouse yet but town is near. This is just down the road from Leverentz SpR."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Arcadia, MI

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Arcadia, MI

42 Reviews of 9 Arcadia Campgrounds

  • Darwin N.
    Jul. 25, 2021

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    NF dispersed camping

    First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace".  Other than that I had a great time.

  • Corey M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2022

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    For Forest Dwellers and Lake Lovers

    This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem. Forest service roads will take you deep into the forests if your vehicle can handle it. 4WD is recommended if you want to go deep. There are plenty of great spots though for big rigs or for those without 4WD. 15-30 minute drive to Lake Michigan. Local convenience store is only a few miles down the road. Try this place out. You won’t regret it.

  • Bobbi Jo K.
    Oct. 13, 2020

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    A Hidden Gem

    This was our first time boondocking in this area. It was beautiful, especially in the fall. 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!). Very peaceful off the grid camping. Even had cell service!

  • Kimberly S.
    Jun. 22, 2021

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    First time dispersed camping

    This was our first time trying out dispersed camping and this location was perfect! We loved being a short drive away from Lake Michigan and plenty of hiking trails. It is in a beautiful wooded area and there were hardly an mosquitos where we were. My only complaint is that the previous visitors at our campsite left trash everywhere and had clearly had fires in at least 4 different areas. The campsite was covered in ash because of it. It’s disappointing to see that some people really just don’t care about taking care of public land.

  • Alyson M.
    Jul. 20, 2022

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    My Go-To Camping spot

    I’ve camped here many times, in summer, fall, and spring. The campsites are large and spread out so you get a bit of privacy. It can get busy on weekends since many people know about this spot. It is a short drive to the beach and nordhouse dunes which is known for hammock camping on the beach so you have options. The last 2 times I’ve went there was lots of trash at the campsites, which is very upsetting. Please follow “Leave No Trace” ethics so we can keep enjoying this space.

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Quiet is right!

    Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.

    This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.

    From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.

    I’d love to come again.

  • Connor N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 9, 2021

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    Nice boondocking spot with access to Lake Michigan!

    Spent a few nights here enjoying Manistee National Forest and Lake Michigan. 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. Will definitely stay again next time we visit Michigan!

  • Josh D.
    Jul. 22, 2020

    Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    Great trail

    Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike.

    Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    Manistee National Forest dispersed campsite

    This is such a beautiful site, we stayed here a few days two years ago. Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes. Many sites were available to us, we chose to utilize our favorite site.

Guide to Arcadia

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Arcadia, Michigan, where nature lovers can find solitude and adventure. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll be sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Arcadia

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Arcadia, Michigan

  • Be prepared for varying conditions at Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, where you can find numerous free sites but should come equipped with your own water and firewood.
  • If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, which offers spacious sites away from the crowds, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
  • Remember to pack bug spray and check for ticks when camping at Lime Lake, especially during warmer months when insects can be more prevalent.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Manistee National Forest

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Arcadia?

You can find excellent dispersed camping opportunities in the Arcadia area along forest service roads. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road offers numerous dispersed sites with varying levels of accessibility. Located in Manistee National Forest, many sites can be accessed with standard vehicles, while others deeper in the forest may require 4WD. The area features spacious campsites spread throughout the woods, providing privacy even during busier weekends. Another option is Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, which offers a more secluded getaway experience with beautiful riverside sites.

Is a permit required for dispersed camping in Arcadia?

Permit requirements vary by location in the Arcadia area. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, permits are required as it's located within a state park. Visitors should check at the entrance for camping registration cards, though availability may be limited due to forest service funding. For dispersed camping in Government Landing Campground, no advance permits are typically needed, but campers should follow posted regulations. Always check with the local ranger district office before your trip as requirements can change seasonally.

What amenities are available at Arcadia dispersed camping sites?

Dispersed camping in the Arcadia area is truly rustic with minimal amenities. At Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, you'll find primitive sites with no water, electricity, or restroom facilities. Campers must bring all necessary supplies including water and waste disposal equipment. The main appeal is the natural setting, wilderness access, and privacy between sites. At Lake Michigan Recreation Area, while still primitive, you'll be closer to Lake Michigan for water recreation. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles as previous visitors sometimes leave trash behind, and pack out everything you bring in.

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