The Manistee National Forest encompasses the area around Copemish, Michigan, with elevations ranging from 600 to 900 feet and a mix of hardwood forests, small lakes, and river valleys. Tent camping in this region typically sees summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and 50-60°F at night, with higher humidity levels due to the proximity to Lake Michigan. Most backcountry sites remain accessible from late April through October, though fall offers the best combination of comfortable temperatures and fewer insects.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes throughout the Sand Lakes Quiet Area provide excellent fishing for bass and other species. According to Dan K., "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."
Waterfall viewing: The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area includes small waterfalls worth visiting. Josh D. recommends, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!"
Multi-day backpacking: The Manistee River Trail combined with the North Country Trail creates a 23-mile loop suitable for a weekend trip. Colin E. reports, "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. Best thing to do is camp for 2 nights and take your time."
Lake swimming: Several quiet lakes offer swimming opportunities during summer months. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, Angelia R. 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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing of campsites along trails provides solitude not found at standard campgrounds. Regarding Manistee River Trail, Shelagh R. noted, "Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups. The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far."
Clear water lakes: The lakes in the region feature remarkably clean, clear water. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, Deven S. commented, "Very nice camp sites once we got set up we went down to fish and the lake is beautiful clear water and a lot of fish!!"
Abundant firewood: Most dispersed areas have sufficient deadfall for responsible campfire use. Dan K. found Sand Lakes Quiet Area had "ample firewood available for processing" among its other amenities.
Easy access options: Healy Lake State Forest Campground offers drive-up camping with basic amenities for those not wanting to backpack. John N. noted, "The campground itself was large with plenty of sites to choose from, first come first serve. I think it was something like $13. Bring cash!"
What you should know
Tick prevention: Ticks are prevalent in warmer months. Josh D. warns, "Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike" at Manistee River Trail.
Finding designated sites: Some camping areas have unmarked or poorly marked sites. At Insta-Launch Campground & Marina, signage is clear, but at Sand Lakes Quiet Area, Noah E. reported, "After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot."
Trail navigation challenges: First-time visitors may struggle to locate camping areas in backcountry locations. Rachael T. advises about Sand Lakes Quiet Area: "You park in this small lot with a yellow gate that is in-front of the trail and then walk down for about 10 min until you see a smaller trail to left follow that down and you will see the campsites!"
Campsite competition: Popular sites fill quickly on weekends. Maddy T. found Sand Lakes extremely peaceful, noting "I was the only one here," but experiences vary by season and day of week.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner backpacking: White Pine Backcountry Camp provides an accessible introduction to backpacking for families. Shari G. described it as "an adorable little 'backcountry' camp in the middle of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. Just 1.5 miles on a very easy sandy trail from the parking area at the Lake Michigan shore is this 6 site campground."
Budget-friendly options: For the best tent camping near Copemish, Michigan with children, consider White Pine Backcountry Camp which offers an organized group area. Shari G. observed, "We ran into a group of young girls from a nearby summer camp who were experiencing their first 'backpacking' adventure."
Kid-friendly fishing: Several campgrounds offer shore fishing suitable for children. At Insta-Launch Campground, Ellen noted it's a "Nice place for the grandkids to fish" with "a nice cleaning station lots of fish."
Off-peak timing: For quieter family camping experiences, avoid summer weekends. Gills B. found Sand Lakes Quiet Area had "too many people and yelling kids" during peak times despite being "breath taking for sure."
Tips from RVers
Simple hookups available: Most tent-focused camping around Copemish lacks RV facilities, but Crystal Forest Campground offers full hookups. VB S. noted, "Full hook up at each site, and pit toilets if needed. The fish station was very well done my husband said."
Fishing-focused RV sites: Several campgrounds cater specifically to anglers with RVs. VB S. described Crystal Forest Campground as "the quintessential fish camp. Regulars have their gear here all season long."
Host assistance: Campground hosts at established sites provide valuable local knowledge. According to VB S., "Sue, the host, is lovely and accommodating. She made us feel very comfortable and checked on us often."
