Dispersed camping near Custer, Michigan offers extensive camping options with pine forests surrounding many sites and sandy soil common throughout the area. Seasonal access varies considerably, with roads often becoming more difficult to navigate in wet seasons due to the sandy composition. Campers should be prepared for temperature drops into the 40s even during summer nights, particularly in wooded sites away from Lake Michigan's moderating influence.
What to do
Beach access from camping areas: A short 5-minute hike from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road provides access to Lake Michigan beaches. According to Deanna A., "Quiet, though our site was adjacent to a trailhead. The forest is stunning and mesmerizing! 5 min hike to dunes/beach."
Hiking trails exploration: The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping offers extensive hiking options. Colin E. shares, "Waterfalls, river bends, wildlife, this trail has it all. Best thing to do is camp for 2 nights and take your time." The trail system includes both the North Country Trail and Manistee River Trail sections.
Mountain biking on forest paths: Forest roads and designated paths near Green Road Dispersed provide cycling opportunities. Evelyn K. notes, "Really great biking paths. We had fun on our e-bikes. Beautiful surroundings. Good birding too."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At many Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF locations, campers appreciate the seclusion. John C. explains, "The sites were easy to find and surrounded by forest. I could see other campers from my site, but they weren't close." This differs from more established campgrounds with closer spacing.
Stargazing opportunities: The distance from urban centers creates excellent night sky viewing. Sara W. from Green Road Dispersed comments, "Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city."
Sandy forest environment: The unique ecosystem combines sand and forest elements. One camper at Nordhouse Dunes notes, "Absolutely one of the most beautiful sites that I have seen yet. Secluded enough for my dog to roam. Large open site surrounded by trees."
What you should know
Wildlife presence: Coyotes are active in some camping areas near Custer. Joseph C. from Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping reports, "Not 30 mins later, the coyotes were back again, but even closer. They were less than 100 yards away from us, and we had no choice but to stay in our tent, and wait for them to pass while holding our protection in hand."
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. Logan P. warns about Sand Road, "If you do not have AWD and good ground clearance, don't even try to get there."
Campsite availability patterns: Government Landing experiences high usage patterns. Bruce L. explains, "I was there during September 2019 and was lucky to get a site. Every site was full. I hear it's darn near impossible to find an open site during June-August."
Tips for camping with families
Nordhouse beach day access: Lake Michigan Recreation Area provides beach access points near camping areas for family day trips. Heidi H. shares, "Drove out to this campsite after spending the day swimming in Lake Michigan at the Recreation area which is down the road."
Off-road vehicle noise awareness: Some areas experience significant off-road vehicle traffic. Andrew G. warns, "There are a LOT of ORVers so be prepared for people zooming up and down the road with super loud engines."
Bug considerations: Insect activity varies considerably by season and location. A camper at Green Road notes, "Not many bugs. The sites were level for tents. Spread out enough that you aren't on top of neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Government Landing Campground has specific areas better suited for different RV sizes. Brittany D. advises, "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."
RV accessibility at Green Road: While challenging, some RVers successfully access dispersed sites. Connor N. reports, "Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves."
Seasonal access considerations: For larger vehicles, timing matters significantly. One RVer at free camping near Custer notes, "We have a promaster and made it through the rough sand road," but emphasizes that dry conditions were essential for successful passage.
