2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Tent camping options near Cadillac, Michigan include several rustic state forest campgrounds and dispersed sites along scenic trails. Long Lake State Forest Campground provides spacious tent sites near water, while Manistee River Trail offers free dispersed camping with both riverside and hilltop options. Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground and Leverentz Lake are additional established options for tent campers seeking more amenities while maintaining a natural setting.
Most primitive tent sites in the Cadillac region require self-sufficiency, with limited facilities typical of Michigan state forest campgrounds. Vault toilets are available at established sites like Long Lake and Hopkins Creek, while dispersed areas along the Manistee River Trail lack facilities entirely. Hand pumps provide drinking water at several state forest campgrounds, but backcountry campers should bring filtration systems. Fire rings are common at designated sites, and many allow alcohol and pets. Seasonal access varies, with most state forest campgrounds operating from April through October, though some permit winter camping.
The Manistee River Trail provides some of the most sought-after tent camping experiences in the region. Sites along the river bluffs offer scenic views, while maintaining reasonable distances from water sources. "The east side of the river is more hilly but has an abundance of water spots to fill up," one camper noted about the trail's dispersed camping options. Tent-only sites at Sand Lakes Quiet Area offer secluded backcountry experiences with walk-in access. Most areas have sufficient tree cover for shade and hammock camping, though some riverside locations are more open. Weekday visits typically ensure greater solitude, as popular areas like the Manistee River Trail can fill quickly on weekends, especially during summer and fall color seasons.
"Long Lake Wexford was a great little spot. The first come - first serve sites are large an spacious. Some are tree covered and more forested while others are open, grassy and lakeside."
"The campground provides vault toilets and a hand pump for water along with campfire rings. The campground had a boat launch and provides easy close access to ORV trails."
"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."
"Did a 1 night backpacking trip on the MRT/NCT loop and we loved the spot we had. All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful!"
"Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty and secluded serene area, that you won't want to leave."
"Drive into this, you'll love it forever!"
from $15 / night
from $30 - $40 / night
"Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody."
"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 chose a site on the Big Lake. There are also a few sites on the Litte Lake. The sites include a picnic table and fire ring. We had plenty of room between sites."
"the big lake unit has large sites with lake views and 2 vault toilets. the little lake unit has small sites, 1 vault toilet, some lake views, some views of nearby houses (more mosquitos at the time too"
from $15 / night
"We want to welcome this partner to our platform. Situated on 40 acres, your tipi site is in the center of it all."
from $20 - $40 / night
ScoutNice little spot. There are lots of places to camp around each of the lakes. There is a bathroom near the first lake. Have to park in the parking lot and walk down. The first spot is about 0.5 mile down the path. Very secluded
TravelerStayed in the non electric sites. Short paved driveways were nice, but if not in a tent your just in a driveway. Bathrooms were super nice, and bear proof trash and mixed recycling outside. Private outside entry showers, and a camp sink room in the shower house. Lots of trails thru out the camp to get to the shower house.
ScoutVery rustic and remote. Bring wood or a saw there are tons of down trees but not a whole lot of places to get wood. For pit toilets they where clean and well kept. If your in need of help it comes within 45 mins (bring solar chargers) out of the way enough to not have a good cell signal (what we where looking for) but enough signal to call for help...we killed our car battery charging phones.. must check out if your into remote areas
ScoutGreat campsite. Nice spot with solid fire ring. There was also connection so we could watch football
TravelerFirst come first serve lots. Big spaces. Loops 1-3 were open in October. Nice trails all around, lake was very pretty. Can't complain for $20 a night. Outhouses were stinky but that's expected. You pay by putting cash in an envelope near the entrance and putting a tag on the site of dates you'll be there.
GuideYa got sunny and more private sites. Little lake and trails. Quick exit onto pavement between Traverse City and the dunes.
GuideNice small lake. Sites a little rough
TravelerThe 2 good things about this campground was the full hook up & the large site size. However, my site & a few surrounding sites smelled like sewage from the moment I stepped out of my truck. I couldn't sit outside to enjoy the "fresh" air or open my windows. The picnic table was backed against utility boxes, & the fire pit was within a few feet of the camper behind me. Supposedly there are 3 dog beaches. I found 1 that was a tiny spot with a little bit of sand. I walked over a mile to the park's edge following signs for another dog beach. It didn't exist. Dog beaches are not marked on the map.
ScoutEach site seems to be cased in with beautiful trees and the atmosphere is relaxing. Bsthrooms are clean but be sure to bring quaters to take showers.
Dispersed tent campsites near Cadillac, Michigan exist within the Huron-Manistee National Forest, where elevations range from 700-1,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temps often dropping below freezing. Fall camping offers colorful foliage displays from mid-September through October, with maple trees typically peaking first.
Fishing opportunities: Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground offers access to both Big and Little Leverentz lakes. "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. It has a boat ramp and a fishing pier," notes camper Ari A.
Hiking trails: Walk directly from your campsite to explore nearby trails at Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites. "We found a quaint opening with gorgeous water where the colors complimented each other. A beautiful spot for a quick lunch and as long as no one is across the way, good for a nice dip," shares Angelia R.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities. "We explored a bit walking around on the foot traffic trails, which is beautifully wooded and shaded," reports Alyssa A. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area. The region supports deer, turkey, eagles, and numerous bird species.
Secluded sites: Hopkins Creek State Forest Campground offers exceptional privacy. "Hopkins is your dream camp site. Follow the winding road all the way until it ends. It is way back in but you'll be so impressed by the beauty and secluded serene area, that you won't want to leave," writes Jeri.
Waterfall access: The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area features small waterfalls. "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" advises Josh D. These natural features are most impressive during spring runoff.
Spacious camping areas: Many tent sites provide ample room. "The first come - first serve sites are large an spacious. Some are tree covered and more forested while others are open, grassy and lakeside," notes D G. about Long Lake State Forest Campground. Most sites accommodate 1-2 tents comfortably.
Site availability: Weekend availability can be limited, especially during summer months. "We arrived later in the evening at the campground. There were several sites to choose from. We chose a site on the Big Lake," shares Theresa W. about Leverentz Lake.
Registration systems: Most state forest campgrounds use self-registration. "The campsites cost $15 per night; they are not reservable. Also, there is no DNR staff on site so bring cash or check to drop into the payment pipe," explains Ari A.
Water access: Muskegon River Canoe Camp provides river-based tent camping. "A great place for dispersed camping. Don't forget the bug spray! Only 20 minutes from town if you did!" advises Just J. Most dispersed sites require campers bring all water or filter from natural sources.
Trail navigation: Some backcountry areas have limited signage. "After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot," notes Noah E. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area. Downloading offline maps before arrival is recommended.
Easy access options: Some sites work better for families with young children. "The sites include a picnic table and fire ring. We had plenty of room between sites. There were newer vault toilets," notes Theresa W. about Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground.
Swimming areas: Few designated swimming beaches exist, but several sites offer water access. "We didn't find many clear areas with safe water to swim in which was disappointing but I will definitely be going back!" shares Katana H. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area.
Noise considerations: Weekdays typically offer quieter camping experiences. "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," explains Shelagh R.
Site limitations: Most primitive sites near Cadillac accommodate smaller camping units only. "All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents," advises Ari A. about Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground.
Seasonal access: Road conditions deteriorate after heavy rain and during spring thaw. "This is a nice campground. Its $15 per night, and out of state is another $9 per vehicle, in state is $17 per vehicle. Nice wooded campsites. On the lake with a boat launch," notes Chels about Leverentz Lake.
Camp setup options: Camp Stonewood Ranch offers a unique lodging alternative. "Situated on 40 acres, your tipi site is in the center of it all. Close to town, you'll have access to amenities, while still feeling like you're secluded from it all," describes Ashley F.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cadillac, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cadillac, MI is Long Lake (Wexford) State Forest Campground with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Cadillac, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 47 tent camping locations near Cadillac, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
